Government of Canada helps young people in Saskatchewan develop job skills
Government of Canada helps young people in Saskatchewan develop job skills
Date: April 19, 2004
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
REGINA, SASKATCHEWAN — Seven projects aimed at helping young people develop work-related skills that they will need to find and keep long-term employment received a boost today. Ralph Goodale, Minister of Finance and Member of Parliament for Wascana, on behalf of the Honourable Joe Volpe, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development, today announced funding of $645,329 for these projects located across Saskatchewan.
The organizations benefiting from this funding are Dimension 11 Ltd., the Transition to Work Committee as a member of the Youth Justice Forum of Regina, the Prince Albert Community Service Centre, the YWCA, the Saskatchewan Native Theatre Company Inc., Saskatoon Community Youth Arts Programming, and Regional Employment Development in Saskatoon.
"Sometimes young people need a little help to gain a foothold in the labour market," said Minister Goodale. "The projects we are supporting will provide the opportunity for some Saskatchewan youth to gain the knowledge and skills they need to enter the work force and, once there, help them to succeed."
Human Resources and Skills Development Canada is providing financial assistance for these projects through the Skills Link Program. The Skills Link program helps youth facing barriers to employment develop the broad range of skills, knowledge and work experience they need to participate in the job market.
This project is funded through the Government of Canada's Youth Employment Strategy (YES) which offers three programs: Skills Link, Summer Work Experience and Career Focus. These programs provide flexibility to choose from a range of activities that can be tailored to meet individual needs and ensure that young people acquire skills and work experience they need to find and keep a job.
Funding for these projects was provided for in the March 2004 federal Budget.
These projects have been reviewed to ensure compliance with the Department's administration of its grant and contribution programs and are subject to review under the Financial Administration Act.
Project: Your Future, It's Wide Open
Description: Under this project, Dimension 11 Ltd. will provide long-term guidance and assistance to at-risk youth by helping them to develop job-specific skills, gain work experience and obtain full-time employment.
Funding: $50,500
Project: Transition to Work Pilot Project
Description: The Transition to Work Committee, as a member of the Youth Justice Forum, will provide youth exiting the Paul Dojack Detention Centre with positive educational and employment opportunities that will help them to work through life issues, create a life plan and develop work-related skills. This project also encourages youth to become leaders, mentors and role models in their community.
Funding: $87,710
Project: Steps to Employment: January 2004
Description: The Prince Albert Community Service Centre will provide youth with the opportunity to gain the knowledge and skills necessary for personal and professional success through the development of positive work habits and behaviours, and the establishment of educational and career-related goals.
Funding: $30,980
Project: Retail/Tourism Youth Skills Building and Employment Project
Description: The Young Women's Christian Association (YWCA) of Prince Albert will help youth develop the skills, abilities and experience they need to gain long-term employment in the retail and tourism industries.
The project will also endeavour to provide youth with life management and personal development skills, which will help them to develop healthier lifestyles.
Funding: $69,349
Project: The 2004 Circle of Voices
Description: The Saskatchewan Native Theatre Company Inc. uses the arts as a means to impart knowledge and skills to youth facing barriers to employment. Through mentorships with professionals and cultural/arts leaders, the participants will create, develop and produce a play based on their stories and understanding of themes that are relevant and meaningful to youth and communities. The goal of this project is to provide youth with the means to achieve their personal and career goals, to develop cultural understanding and pride, and to create awareness that strengthens community spirit.
Funding: $149,857
Project: Urban Canvas Project IV
Description: The Saskatoon Community Youth Arts Programming will use visual art, specifically graffiti and raw art, as an innovative means to develop the skills and increase the confidence and self-esteem of at-risk youth. The project aims to enhance the bond between youth and their community and improve their opportunities for sustainable employment.
Funding: $142,470
Project: What Works
Description: The Regional Employment Development will help youth who face barriers to employment acquire the information and skills they need to make a successful transition to the workplace through facilitating life/employability workshops and work placements.
Funding: $114,463
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For more information:
Craig Henry
Service Canada
Regional Communications
Regina, Saskatchewan
1 306 564-5380
For more information on programs under the Government of Canada's Youth Employment Strategy, call the Youth Info Line at 1 800 935-5555, or visit our Web site.