Blog

As we are wrapping up the end of the program year at READ Saskatoon, we are also wishing a fond farewell to our Adult Literacy Coordinator, Beth Cleghorn, who is retired last month. Beth has been the heart and soul of our Lead program for the past three years, and we want to celebrate everything she brought to our program and workplace by sharing some stories and well wishes from staff, volunteers, and program participants.

Beth was the one who showed me the ropes in family literacy. I was just stepping into the role as she was stepping into her new role as Adult Literacy Coordinator. I was able to attend a Lead training in my first few weeks and Beth so clearly encapsulated the work of READ Saskatoon.

Beth led with poise, intelligence, and understanding. She created a community with her coaches and you could tell they were all eager to do the work. I hoped I would also create that type of community in my own position.

• Kayla

 

So many people—from all walks of life—have benefited from having Beth in their lives. I will miss her laugh and generous spirit. Congratulations on your retirement, Beth!

• MacKenzie

 

This is what I’ve learned about Beth: She is Mary Poppins! “For every job to be done, there is an element of fun!” She has a way of getting folks to do things they didn’t think they could do. She inspired confidence.

• Sheryl

 

Beth was so kind to me when I first started working at READ Saskatoon. As well as helping me settle into my position through always being on hand for questions about volunteers and programs, she also made a point of checking in about how I was settling into life in Canada which I really appreciated.

• Rachael

 

Beth has always been a great support, mentor, and friend to me. Through teaching me how to be a Lead literacy coach, supporting me in my education, and bonding over a group food poisoning incident, we have been through a lot together. I will miss her dearly.

• Kat

 

She was always available to assist us in securing resources or just to chat about learning goals and plans. During COVID Beth worked hard to update coaches on the latest virtual meeting options so we could continue to have meaningful sessions with our learners. Beth always had a smile on her face and was always so positive and upbeat.

• Brenda, volunteer literacy coach

 

I have really appreciated Beth’s support throughout this year (my first as a READ volunteer). She is a great listener and always gives good advice. I will really miss her and wish her all the best for her retirement.

• Jenny, volunteer literacy coach

Beth is a great ambassador for READ. She has amazing people skills and makes everyone feel appreciated and comfortable.  She is always willing to help.

• Mary, volunteer literacy coach

As a volunteer coach, I could always rely on Beth to respond quickly and with useful advice regarding situations or resources that fit our circumstance perfectly. Her commitment to both learners and volunteers was always incredible, responsive, compassionate, and relevant.

• Joanne, volunteer literacy coach & former co-worker

 

Our first meeting with Beth at READ began in early winter 2020. When I visited the new place in Saskatoon it was stressful for me. My English speech was at zero and Beth spoke to me slowly and understandably.  I will never forget the first impression of her smile, courtesy, and patience in repeating so I would understand everything. Beth is a very friendly and fantastic woman.

• Beata, Lead learner & new Canadian (from Poland)

 

Beth – we will miss your kindness, commitment to excellence, sense of humour, and the way you created community in our office and with our volunteers.

Many, many wishes for a happy and fulfilling retirement!