Canadians across the country supporting literacy through the Scotiabank Giller Light Bash

TORONTO, Nov. 4, 2013 /CNW/ - From what began as a small gathering in 2002, the Scotiabank Giller Light Bash has grown into a popular cultural event across the country to raise money for Frontier College, Canada's original literacy organization. The Bash combines a taste of the Scotiabank Giller Prize Gala formalities with a hip, urban twist. Guests watch the live broadcast of the Gala on big screen, mingle with fellow book lovers and have the chance to Guess the Giller by submitting their vote on the book they think will win the coveted prize. The night has traditionally been filled with surprises as Giller winners and authors alike have been known to join the festivities.

This year, the party is held on November 5^th concurrently in six Canadian cities: Vancouver, Calgary, Regina, Winnipeg, Toronto and Halifax. Since its inception, the bash has raised over $400,000 for Frontier College. Frontier College runs literacy programs for children, youth and adults across the country. In Toronto, programs include homework clubs for kids, tutoring for youth and literacy upgrading for adults.

"We look forward to once again partnering with Frontier College to bring the Scotiabank Giller Light Bash to cities across the country," says Jacquie Ryan, Vice President, Sponsorships and Partnership Programs. "Book lovers from coast to coast will be able to take part in the excitement of the Scotiabank Giller Prize, while helping support the worthy cause of literacy. Literacy is such an amazing gift because it enriches the lives of individuals and communities by offering access to other people's stories and perspectives." 

Frontier College President Sherry Campbell explains how literacy affects every part of society. "If a mother can't read a prescription bottle, it can result in a health emergency. If an employee doesn't understand a safety memo or sign, it can affect the lives of other employees. If a young girl's parents are unable to help with her homework because they don't feel comfortable with their ability, that girl can easily fall behind in school, eliminating many options for her future. At Frontier College we're working with the most vulnerable people in our society, improving their literacy and increasing their opportunities."

The Toronto event will be held at the CBC Broadcast Centre and is emceed by author and sportscaster Kevin Sylvester. The evening includes a live broadcast of the Scotiabank Giller Awards, great food, a live band and DJ, and fantastic raffle prizes. Tickets are $30 in advance; $35 at the door and can be purchased at www.gillerlightbash.ca

About Frontier College

Frontier College is Canada's original literacy organization. Founded in 1899, this charitable organization recruits and trains volunteers to deliver literacy programs to children, youth and adults in communities across the country. Frontier College helps Canadians improve their literacy and increase their opportunities. We believe that literacy is a right.

About Scotiabank

Scotiabank is committed to supporting the communities in which we live and work, both in Canada and abroad, through our global philanthropic program, Scotiabank Bright Future.  Recognized as a leader internationally and among Canadian corporations for our charitable donations and philanthropic activities, Scotiabank has provided on average approximately $47 million annually to community causes around the world over each of the last five years. Visit us at www.scotiabank.com.

SOURCE: Frontier College

please contact Abby Robins, Director of Communications, Frontier College, [email protected] or 416-923-3591 ext. 378.  www.frontiercollege.ca or 416-277-3340