The Yellowhead Community Services Society has unveiled the community’s newly transformed community centre, thanks to funding from government’s Job Creation Partnership program.

Four people in Clearwater received 35 weeks of work experience as part of government’s funding of over $204,556 to the Yellowhead Community Services Society to renovate the Dutch Lake school into a community centre. Participants gained work experience in general construction techniques including carpentry, plumbing, painting, floor laying and drywalling.

The community centre offers recreational, cultural, social and educational activities and is bringing together community groups such as seniors, First Nations, families and other specialized groups. The centre offers both indoor and outdoor space for events year round.

Job Creation Partnerships are part of the Employment Program of BC’s Community and Employer Partnerships, which fund projects that increase employability and share labour market information.

To date, more than 420 job seekers have benefited from work experience and more than 110 projects have been funded throughout the province.

The Community and Employer Partnerships program is featured in B.C.’s Skills for Jobs Blueprint that helps align training and education with in-demand jobs and provides more support to people who are struggling to gain a foothold in the job market or who face unique challenges.

Quotes:

Minister of Social Development and Social Innovation Don McRae −

“The success of the Job Creation Partnership Program is dependent on our partnerships with organizations like the Yellowhead Community Services Society. Contributing to community initiatives while giving locals the chance to get work experience is the kind of development that appeals to employers. It is my hope that this experience helps participants in their future professional endeavours.”

Kamloops-North Thompson MLA Terry Lake −

“The renovation of the Dutch Lake school into a community centre is surely a proud moment for Clearwater residents. This community centre provides programs and services to the local population, and the people who participated in the project will be able to look back fondly at their contributions to the community, knowing they gained hands-on work experience.”

Yellowhead Community Services executive director Jack Keough -

“The Job Creation Partnership was integral to the successful development of this project. It was a key piece of the funding and not only did it serve to meet the employment needs of four individuals, but it was a catalyst that brought the various partners together to see this project through to its completion.”

Project participant Dwight Radcliffe −

“I enjoyed working in the program and I learned a lot.”

Quick Facts:

• In 2014-15, the ministry has committed to investing $331 million in employment and labour market programs under the Employment Program of BC.
• The Employment Program of BC is funded by the Province of British Columbia as well as the Government of Canada through the Labour Market Development Agreement.
• Funding supports 85 WorkBC Employment Services Centres throughout the province and the four components of the Community and Employer Partnerships fund:
  • Job Creation Partnerships
  • Labour Market Partnerships
  • Project-Based Labour Market Training
  • Research and Innovation

Who is eligible?

• Businesses
• Non-profit organizations
• Municipalities, agencies or territorial governments
• Bands/tribal councils
• Public health and educational institutions

Learn More:

For more information on Community and Employer Partnerships: www.workbc.ca/CEP

To find a local WorkBC Employment Services Centre: www.workbccentres.ca

To learn more about the Ministry of Social Development and Social Innovation: www.gov.bc.ca/sdsi

Media Contacts:

Grant Kerr
Ministry of Social Development and Social Innovation
250 387-5635