10th annual ABC Life Literacy Media Sale launches April 26; all proceeds support literacy in Canada

(Toronto, ON – April 15, 2010) – The 10th annual ABC Life Literacy Media Sale (formerly the Gutenberg Media Grab), an online sale of advertising space donated by leading magazines, newspapers, digital and outdoor media from across Canada, kicks off on Monday, April 26, 2010 to raise much-needed funds for literacy programming in Canada. The unique fundraising model sells media space on a first-come, first-serve basis at 65 per cent off the rate card value – there is no bidding involved. Since 2000, ABC Life Literacy Canada has raised more than $1 million for literacy programming through the sale, making it their largest and most successful fundraiser.

"What makes our fundraiser different from others is that it is a media sale, not an auction,” said Rina Khosla, Director of Marketing and Partnerships at ABC Life Literacy Canada. “It’s as easy as signing up and clicking on a button. There is no bidding and no hassle, so you will always get 65 per cent off.” Funds generated from the ABC Life Literacy Media Sale go towards literacy programming, resources for non-profit groups, and awareness campaigns to inspire Canadians to increase their literacy skills. Nearly nine million adult Canadians struggle with low literacy.

“This fundraiser is extremely important to help encourage individuals with reading, writing and math challenges to get help,” said Margaret Eaton, President, ABC Life Literacy Canada. “Literacy is a fundamental skill that impacts communities, businesses and families. We need to provide the necessary resources so that all Canadians can have the skills they need to live a fully engaged life.”

Several leading media outlets – including Chatelaine, CTV.ca, Toronto Life, Metro Newspaper Group, Style at Home, The Toronto Sun, The Vancouver Sun, and CBS Outdoor Canada – have already donated ad space to the sale.

To register to buy, to donate media, or for more information, please visit http://www.abclifeliteracy.ca/mediasale. The sale starts promptly at 9:00 a.m. ET on Monday, April 26, 2010.

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About ABC Life Literacy Canada:
ABC Life Literacy Canada is a non-profit organization that inspires Canadians to increase their literacy skills. We mobilize business, government and communities to support lifelong learning and achieve our goals through leadership in programs, communications and partnerships. ABC Life Literacy Canada envisions a Canada where everyone has the skills they need to live a fully engaged life. For the latest news and information on adult literacy please visit www.abclifeliteracy.ca, follow us on Twitter or join our Facebook page.

For more information, please contact:
Nikki Luscombe, Communications Manager
ABC Life Literacy Canada
Tel: 416 218-0010 x122
nluscombe@abclifeliteracy.ca

Ashley Tilley, Communications Co-ordinator
ABC Life Literacy Canada
Tel: 416-218-0010, ext. 127
atilley@abclifeliteracy.ca