With hundreds of stories just waiting to be told, two people will be getting work experience in research and interview skills, as well as learning about some of the fascinating people who make up the history of Prince Rupert, thanks to a government partnership with the Hecate Strait Employment Development Society.

This is the second edition of the Book of Rainbows, which will shine a light on the contributions of Aboriginal people and immigrants to Prince Rupert, fondly known for the rainbows that nature creates and also a human rainbow, which is its diverse population.

The Hecate Strait Employment Development Society is receiving more than $56,000 in Job Creation Partnership funding for the 28-week book project, which wraps up in March 2015.

The book will tell stories from the residents’ perspectives of their family history, and their involvement in community development with a particular focus on Aboriginal people to provide a greater understanding between cultures.

When published, 750 printed copies will be distributed for free to the local literacy society, multicultural groups, schools, the local library, the City of Prince Rupert, District of Port Edward, the Chamber of Commerce, the Port of Prince Rupert and First Nations.

The popular first Book of Rainbows was published in November 2013 and received nearly $53,000 in Job Creation Partnership funding for a total of more than $109,000. The previous project was a springboard for two participants who went on to find employment after they published the book featuring stories and photos primarily about pioneer families, as well as some stories about immigrants and Aboriginal people.

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 450 job seekers have benefited from work experience, and more than 120 projects have been funded throughout the province.

Quotes:

Minister of Social Development and Social Innovation Don McRae -

“This partnership will really help the workers improve their confidence, computer and communication skills in a lot of different areas. It will help not only build a lot of contacts that should help them with future jobs but also enable them to learn a great deal about their community.”

Hecate Strait Development Society project coordinator Duane Jackson -

“The Job Creation Partnership project is not just about work experience, it’s about opportunity. The idea is to not only use the resources and training within the organization but to give participants a greater understanding of the wealth of employment opportunities that are available in the region through the contacts they will make in the community.”

Project participant Justine Knott -

“It’s a tremendous learning experience with great teachings. I love learning something new every day.”

Project participant Kathy Nelson -

“Fantastic! The range of possibilities in career choices that open up for us is exciting.”

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
• 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.

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