INUVIK - Rick Mercer is a new champion for literacy in the North.

Mercer made a presentation to the NWT Literacy Council during his stay in town for the petroleum show.

Rick Mercer donated half of his earnings in Inuvik to the NWT Literacy Council during his stay in town last week. Here, Mercer poses with Suzanne Robinson, Deb English and Bev Garven. - Dez Loreen/NNSL photo

Mercer donated half of his fee for performing at the show to fund literacy programs across the NWT.

He said he had a few reasons for making the donation.

The first is his connection to the Peter Gzowski Foundation for Literacy, which provides funding for Northern literacy programs in NWT and Nunavut.

"Peter was one of my friends who got me my first big break in show business," said Mercer.

"He's the one who inspired me to get to the North and learn more about my country.

"He knew how passionate I am about Newfoundland and basically challenged me to learn more about the North."

After Gzowski died, Mercer participated in a few Peter Gzowzki Invitational Golf Tournaments for literacy, one time bringing him to Ulukhaktok.

"I wanted to make this donation to literacy, for the foundation to show my support," he said.

"It's good that I could come here for business and still make a contribution in honour of a friend."

Suzanne Robinson of the NWT Literacy Council was on hand to accept the cheque from Mercer.

She was accompanied by students in her adult education class.

Mercer said his time in Inuvik was fun and he was greeted with friendliness wherever he went.

"Everyone has been tremendously nice and helpful," he said.

"I know it sounds cliché, but it's true."

This marks Mercer's first time in Inuvik.

"My trip here has been phenomenal," he said.

"It's been ridiculously nice here, the sun is always out and it's just great."

He worked a set show, meaning the performance was the same on both nights.

His act comprised clips from earlier in his career when he would bombard politicians with questions.

He also gave some insight into his work on television and the people he has met over the years.