There's less than a week to go until the 2017 United Way Telethon kicks off in the Energy City, and the southeast is getting amped to support the 15 member agencies.

One of those is the Estevan Area Literacy Group.

"We offer various literacy programs throughout the community. We do book clubs at the schools, 'Nature Smarts' and Summer English Fun' the summer. We do a lot of drop in literacy programs throughout the year, and we also host battle of the books in March," explained Kim Marshall, the Literacy Coordinator.

"Literacy is such a big part of quality of life. If you can't read and write, and understand what you're reading and writing, then it's really hard to get information and exist in society. We help parents, newcomers and children build those skills."

She added that, a lot of times, parents want to help their kids and don't know how. The Group helps provide tools for that as well. 

"United Way is our number one funder. Without their support, we would not be able to offer the programs that we offer," Marshall expressed.

The money they get this year will cover a lot of day to day operations, as well as a base funding for their programs overall.

She herself is looking forward to being able to help out at the Telethon and assist others raise funds as well.

The United Way Telethon in Estevan will be held for 33 consecutive hours from October 27th to 28th at the Legion Hall.