Lac La Biche, Alberta – For more than 20 years, Portage College’s Public Legal Education (PLE) Program has been a trusted resource for communities across northeastern Alberta. By providing accessible legal information, the program helps individuals better understand their rights and navigate the legal system. Now, with a three-year grant of $590,216 from the Alberta Law Foundation, the program is set to expand its reach and deepen its impact.

Launched in 2001, the PLE program was created to connect rural and Indigenous communities with practical tools and resources about the legal system. Over time, the program has expanded its offerings to include workshops, webinars, and informational sessions on topics like family law, reconciliation, human rights, and youth-focused education, focusing on issues that matter to Indigenous and rural communities, as well as underserved and vulnerable populations.

“The work we do is about connection—helping people access knowledge about the law, the legal system, and the resources available to guide them,” said Shelley Jackson, coordinator of the PLE Program. “This grant allows us to expand our programming and continue serving communities in-person and virtually across the province.”

“This support from the Alberta Law Foundation will enhance the resources we provide to the communities we serve,” said Nancy Broadbent, President and CEO of Portage College. “We are grateful for their ongoing partnership in ensuring more Albertans can access the legal information they need.”

With plans to broaden its resources, deliver culturally relevant programming to Indigenous and rural communities, and host a 25th-anniversary symposium in 2026, the PLE Program is looking ahead to new opportunities to support Albertans with clear and practical information.

About the Public Legal Education Program

Portage College's PLE Program connects Albertans with tools and resources to better understand the law and legal system. Through tailored workshops, webinars, and materials, the program helps individuals address legal challenges and access support across northeastern Alberta. Subscribe to the PLE newsletter: https://pleonline.us2.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=9d6ab285683c905f015bc90ba&id=039600e717

Media Contacts

Corporate Communications Department
Portage College
Phone: 780-623-6671
Email: pr@portagecollege.ca

Public Legal Education
Shelley Jackson, Program Coordinator
Phone: 780-623-5680
Email: shelley.jackson@portagecollege.ca