Community Learning Network - An Alberta Association of Leaders in Lifelong Learning

The Community Learning Network (CLN) is a provincial non-profit association and registered Canadian charity based in Alberta. It serves as the central support organization for Community Adult Learning Programs (CALPs) throughout the province. The CLN’s mission focuses on supporting these grassroots, community-based organizations by providing leadership, resources, professional development, and connections aimed at enhancing adult foundational learning opportunities[2][3].

History and Purpose

CLN was established to cultivate and promote community-based adult learning across Alberta. It acts as an association of leaders in lifelong learning, dedicated to advancing adult foundational education. The network supports CALPs which are funded by Alberta Advanced Education (part of the Government of Alberta). These programs address needs in adult literacy, numeracy, English language learning, basic digital skills, foundational life skills, and community capacity building[1][2].

Programs and Services

The Community Adult Learning Programs (CALPs) supported by CLN offer accessible learning opportunities tailored to adults in their local communities. These opportunities include:

• Adult literacy and numeracy
• English language learning
• Basic digital and computer skills
• Foundational life skills
• Family literacy programs
• Community capacity building initiatives

CLN provides CALP staff, volunteers, and system stakeholders with professional development, training modules, instructional resources, and operational support to ensure effective service delivery. The organization also hosts the annual Literacy & Learning Symposium, which serves as a key province-wide professional development event for CALP personnel[1][2][3].

Structure and Governance

The Community Learning Network is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors, composed primarily of CALP staff and board members. Its operational team includes approximately 12 staff members positioned across Alberta to provide regionally relevant support. The provincial office is located in Edmonton, Alberta[2].

Funding and Partnerships

The organization is primarily funded by the Government of Alberta through Alberta Advanced Education. CLN collaborates closely with government bodies, community organizations, funders, and other stakeholders to promote lifelong learning and maximize the impact of adult foundational education in Alberta’s communities[1][2].

Vision

CLN envisions Community Adult Learning Programs as essential hubs for adult learning across every community in Alberta, fostering accessible, relevant, and lifelong learning opportunities to change lives and strengthen communities[2][3].

This article summarizes the role, mission, and structure of the Community Learning Network as Alberta’s lead association supporting adult foundational learning through community-based programs.