About Us

Community Learning in Action

About Us

Quebec City Reading Council (QCRC) has been proudly serving the English-speaking community since 1984, creating welcoming spaces where learners of all ages can thrive. We meet the needs of the English-speaking community through partnerships and collaborations with a wide range of community partners and funded by le Ministère de l'Éducation Québec.

At QCRC we believe everyone deserves the chance to learn, grow, and feel connected. Whether you’d like to strengthen your digital skills, help your child with school work, or build confidence tackling everyday tasks, we’re here to walk alongside you.

Programs & Services

Our programming is organized into two main categories: Adult Literacy Services and Family Literacy Services. We equip parents and caregivers with the practical tools, resources, and support they need to help their children develop strong early literacy skills. We offer tutoring for adults seeking assistance with Essential Skills such as reading, writing, mathematics and computer skills. We also offer educational opportunities for English-speaking seniors 50+ in our Lifelong Learning Program and participate in/organize a number of community events each year.

Mission Statement

Quebec City Reading Council’s mission is to empower and connect the English-speaking community through inclusive, community-driven literacy programs.

Vision Statement

We envision a Quebec where everyone has the literacy skills, they need to live a fully engaged life.

Our Values

Inclusion

We champion equitable access to literacy support so everyone can participate fully in their community.

Community

We center the lived experiences, needs, and strengths of the English-speaking community in all we do.

Empowerment

We support individuals to build the skills and confidence needed to navigate and thrive in everyday life.

Learning Across Generations

We support learners at every stage of life, from toddlers to seniors through programs that foster growth, connection, and curiosity.

Respect & Belonging

We create welcoming spaces where people are valued, encouraged to learn and invited to contribute.

Meet the People Behind QCRC

Cathy Nolan

Executive Director

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Cathy has been the Executive Director of the Quebec City Reading Council since 2000. Originally from Belfast, Northern Ireland, her professional background is in health care and psychology. When she immigrated to Quebec, her passion for literacy led her to become a volunteer with QCRC and eventually to her role as its Executive Director.

Catherine Hawker

Intergenerational Program Coordinator

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Catherine joined QCRC in August 2022. Originally from Christchurch, New Zealand, she spent over 10 years abroad before moving to Quebec in 2020. Catherine holds a Master’s in Early Childhood Education and has experience working with people of all ages. She has been a wonderful addition to the QCRC team.

Michelle Osbourne

Communications & Program Development

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Originally from Toronto, Ontario, Michelle has been part of the QCRC family for more than eight years, contributing to the organization in a variety of roles. With over 25 years of experience in communications, administration, and project management, she brings awealth of knowledge, creativity, and leadership to her work. Passionate about community building, Michelle believes literacy and lifelong learning create opportunities, build confidence, and strengthen communities.