RECLAIM Literacy has been incredibly fortunate to have Gundie Robertson as part of their community for over 12 years. A retired teacher, Gundie began as a classroom tutor and soon joined their Board of Directors, where she now serves as Vice-President. Throughout her time with RECLAIM, she has remained a dedicated and caring tutor.
Gundie continued tutoring throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, meeting learners online each week and creating a safe and welcoming space during a difficult time. Her lessons remain a weekly highlight and often center on a poem, song, or meaningful passage, sparking thoughtful discussion while supporting the development of reading, vocabulary, and spelling skills.
Even when working with groups of up to 10 learners, Gundie engages everyone with her kind and thoughtful approach. She builds confidence in reading and writing skills while motivating meaningful progress. Gundie says she has seen a significant growth in the confidence and abilities of many of RECLAIM’s longtime learners. This progress truly reflects her steady encouragement and commitment.
When plans were shared to nominate Gundie for Volunteer of the Year, learners were eager to express their appreciation. One shared, “She is the best teacher to me in the world. You have a good feeling when you see her.” Another added, “She is very patient with people. She takes her time… she is calm.”
Gundie is also an active participant in tutor meetings, where volunteers check in and seek support regarding their tutoring assignments. Her contributions are invaluable. She offers encouragement, shares thoughtful insights, and helps develop practical solutions to challenges.
As a Board member, Gundie brings both her classroom experience and a deep understanding of learners’ needs to every discussion. Her perspective as a longtime volunteer is invaluable, and her completion of the Helen Levy Leadership Development Program through the Cummings Centre further strengthens the leadership she brings to the role.
Everyone looks forward to seeing Gundie. She brings warmth and joy to every interaction. One learner summed it up well: “She encourages learning for us all. We always welcome her, and she always welcomes us.”
Each Monday, Gundie arrives and says, “This is one of the best parts of my week!” A sentiment shared by many at RECLAIM.
👉Inspired by Gundie’s story? Learn more about volunteering with RECLAIM Literacy: https://reclaimliteracy.ca/
Literacy Quebec inaugurated the Freda Hudson Volunteer Recognition Award in 2007, in memory of a remarkable volunteer. It is presented annually to a volunteer who has made a significant contribution to literacy.
