Ms. Brisebois introduced participants of the Employment & Education Centre (EEC) to share individual testimonials depicting the benefits that the local youth experienced from their involvement in the We Are The Change Youth program.
Miss. King and Mr. Cameron shared their life experiences and explained how the program had enhanced their prospects for the future. They described the program as a new approach to introducing youth to the work field, by providing beneficial skills and on the job training in a supportive and encouraging environment. It was noted that this program is aimed to aid youth who struggle with troubles such as homelessness and mental health issues by providing them with beneficial life skills. It was noted that the participants use the skills acquired through the program to build tiny homes, which they later donate (two homes will be donated to first nation communities), subsequently aiding the affordable housing dilemma. By providing structure and purpose, the program encourages youth to obtain an assortment of soft and hard skills from managing finances and writing a resume to attaining trades and job placements in a variety of fields.
Members inquired where the tiny homes are being built, if the hours worked are accredited and how long the program runs. It was noted that the homes are being built in Brockville, that all hours worked are accredited to related trades and that the pilot program runs for 30 weeks. Ms. Brisboise noted the EEC currently has funding to run 3 groups with the next program scheduled to start in November, however the hope is to secure funding for future programming.
Council inquired if the current program was still running and if the subsequent placements following the program were guaranteed positions. Miss. King noted that the 12 weeks of placement remain in the current program. She further noted that while mentors provide placement leads and support to the participant during the application process, there is still an interview process with no guarantee of obtaining the placement position.
Members commended Miss. King and Mr. Cameron for speaking to the value of this program and noted that while the skills obtained seem specific to certain trades, they encouraged them to broaden their prospects, recommending a possible future in agricultural services. It was noted that many trades workers enjoy a career in agriculture, as it requires hands on experience in many areas, noting that many are women and youth.
Council thanked the ECC group for their presentation and encouraged them to continue the good work.