Our clients hear about us from friends, monthly outreach campaigns, and other organizations such as Toronto Employment and Social Services, local colleges and adult high schools, as well as Homeward Bound.

  • Approximately half our clients are Canadian-born. They may have exited high school early, never entered high school, or struggled throughout their studies due to learning disabilities or other personal circumstances.
  • We also serve an immigrant population from other English-speaking countries, who may or may not have had the opportunity for formal schooling.
  • Our client base also includes immigrants from non-English-speaking countries who have learned to speak English, but may not have developed their reading or writing skills. Some of these students are highly educated in their first language, but struggle with literacy in English.

Steady Growth in Learner Participation

Over the past three years, our program has seen a consistent rise in learner engagement. We saw 63 learners in 2022, 73 in 2023, and 86 in 2024. This 36% increase reflects the impact of our ongoing outreach efforts and the successful return to in-person tutoring.

Program by the Numbers

Reporting Period: April 1, 2023 – March 31, 2024

Learners Served: 86

Note: We transitioned back to onsite tutoring midway through 2023. The pandemic and shift to online services had impacted participation, but our monthly outreach efforts continue to rebuild numbers toward pre-COVID levels.

Gender Breakdown

  • 64% Female
  • 35% Male

The trend toward a higher percentage of female learners continues, influenced by referrals from Homeward Bound, a program supporting single mothers.

Age Distribution

  • 18–24: 8%
  • 25–29: 8%
  • 30–34: 30%
  • 45–54: 16%
  • 55+: 38%

In 2025, the largest growth was seen in the 55+ age group, which rose to 38%—a notable increase from 24% in 2024—reflecting continued demand for literacy and digital skills among older adults.

Education Level

  • Grade 8 or less: 25%
  • Grade 9–11: 29%
  • Grade 12 or equivalent: 22%
  • Some post-secondary: 7%
  • College diploma: 4%
  • University degree: 11%
  • Postgraduate: 8%

42% of learners completed their highest level of education outside of Canada.
Many internationally educated participants—particularly those with degrees—join our program to strengthen their written English.

Employment History

  • 71% have worked in Canada
  • 5% have worked outside Canada
  • 24% have no work experience

Time Out of Work

Among unemployed learners:

  • 59% have been out of work for more than 6 years
  • 24% between 1–6 years
  • 2% between 3–6 months

“It is so rewarding when your student makes a breakthrough.”