British Columbians are benefitting from a better understanding of local labour market circumstances as well as training and relevant work experience thanks to $1.3 million in funding for community-driven projects through Community and Employer Partnerships, says Minister of Social Development Moira Stilwell, M.D.

On April 2, 2012, Community and Employer Partnerships were implemented as a component of the Employment Program of BC, with the goal of increasing labour market partnerships and employment opportunities for unemployed British Columbians. Pursuant to a successful first year, Community and Employer Partnerships will continue.

Community and Employer Partnerships are currently supporting B.C. community projects that focus on increasing employability and building labour market capacity throughout the Province through two main streams-Job Creation Partnerships and Labour Market Partnerships.

Job Creation Partnerships help provide funding to organizations to assist with local projects that provide useful work experience and skill enhancement opportunities to eligible job seekers.

Labour Market Partnerships fund projects that encourage and support communities in developing and implementing strategies that focus on labour force changes and human resource requirements, including responding to urgent labour market issues.

So far these partnerships have supported 40 community projects ranging from cultural improvements and upgraded recreational sites to anti-bullying educational programs and regional labour market strategies, and have provided over 100 WorkBC Employment Services Centre job seekers with work experience opportunities.

Quotes:

Minister of Social Development, Moira Stilwell -

"Community and Employer Partnerships were established as a way to encourage community-based projects, while offering paid work experience for people looking for skills training and employment opportunities. This is one more tool that we feel bridges a gap between being unemployed and having a job."

Sheryl Worthing, chief administrative officer, Village of Burns Lake (Project Holder) -

"The Labour Market Partnership Program was very beneficial for the Community of Burns Lake. The primary purpose of the program was to develop short, medium and long term strategies and create and maintain a network for information sharing during the community transition caused by the tragic fire at Babine Forest Products just over a year ago. We are grateful for the support from the Province and for the program."

Lora, participant, Englishman River new trail construction project -

"I feel I have taken all of my previous knowledge and all of my new knowledge and put them all together into practical use here. I love working in my own community helping to maintain the channel."

Dave, participant, Deep Bay Harbour expansion project -

"This was the chance of a lifetime. If I could continue in this type of job for the rest of my life I would be happy."

Quick Facts:

• Job Creation Partnerships provide funding to assist with local projects that provide useful work experience and skill enhancement opportunities.
• Approximately $1.1 million has been used to fund 36 Job Creation Partnerships to date.
• Labour Market Partnerships provide funding to address local labour market or human resources issues.
• Approximately $200,000 in funding has been contributed to four Labour Market Partnerships to date.
• Funding for both categories is based on the size and nature of the project and ranges up to a maximum of $100,000.

Who is eligible?

• Community organizations, non-profit organizations
• Band/Tribal Councils
• Municipalities
• Chambers of commerce and business associations
• B.C. businesses

Learn More:

For more information on the Community Employer Partnerships:http://www.workbc.ca/Workplace-Resources/Community-Employer-Partnerships/

To view a list of approved projects, visit: http://www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca/BG_CEP_Funding_April_2013_JCP.pdf

To view photos of participants in action, visit: http://www.flickr.com/photos/bcgovphotos/8644155204/

To find a local Employment Program of BC WorkBC employment services centre: www.workbccentres.ca

To learn more about the Ministry of Social Development: www.gov.bc.ca/hsd/index.html

Media Contact:

Joanne Whittier
Communications Manager
Ministry of Social Development
250 356-1670