Local back alleys are getting another splash of colour as two people get work experience painting three murals in downtown Kamloops, thanks to more than $19,000 in government funding.

The participants are getting experience in large-scale design and mural painting and techniques as they create the community murals throughout downtown. One mural of a dragon has been completed behind All Aboard Games, 238 Lansdowne St. A second mural is under way behind the Fremont Block building at 246-250 Victoria St. The mural depicts an artist working on a variety of paintings in her studio. A third mural will also be painted downtown at the back of the Service Canada building, 520 Seymour St. The murals are scheduled for completion by Oct. 16, 2015.

This project is funded through the Community and Employer Partnerships program, which was introduced in April 2012 as part of the Employment Program of BC.

Government is taking action to address the rapidly changing labour market. Government created the B.C. Skills for Jobs Blueprint to ensure more British Columbians have the skills they need to be first in line for in-demand jobs in B.C.'s diverse, strong and growing economy.

The Community and Employer Partnerships program is featured in B.C.’s Skills for Jobs Blueprint and provides more support to people who are struggling to gain a foothold in the job market. It helps build stronger partnerships with industry and labour to connect British Columbians with classroom and on-the-job training, while making it easier for employers to hire the skilled workers they need – when and where they need them.

To date, the program has helped more than 800 job seekers benefit from work experience and funded nearly 180 projects throughout the province.

Quotes:

Michelle Stilwell, Minister of Social Development and Social Innovation –

“These two participants are getting terrific work experience on the murals project that will be a great stepping-stone toward full-time employment. Their work will certainly have a lasting legacy in Kamloops.”

Todd Stone, MLA for Kamloops-South Thompson –

“Downtown Kamloops is benefitting so much from these murals, which turn back alleys into colourful art walks where people will want to go to see these amazing paintings. People will be enjoying these artworks for years to come.”

Gay Pooler, general manager, Kamloops Central Business Improvement Association –

“The alley art gallery project is an integral component of our Complete Streets Initiative: public spaces that are friendly, supportive, appealing, and safe. We always try whenever possible to employ, mentor and train youth participants in the program, especially ones whom express themselves through art. We feel the skillset and confidence gained participating in the program helps to engage and direct their art form in healthy avenues and increases their chances of further employment.”

Britanee Neufeld, project participant –

“This has been such an amazing opportunity for me. Putting up beautiful art, taking in the culture of downtown, meeting new people and learning new skills all at once. I feel very fortunate to be part of the back alley art program. There is no such job that exists where you can use your artistic talent and beautify our city. It is amazing to see them turn an old building into an amazing mural. I am so proud to be part of that.”

Quick Facts:

• Kamloops already has 17 back alley murals spread throughout its downtown core.
• The murals being painted will make it an even 20.
• In 2015-16, 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 84 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
• Crown corporations
• 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

For more information on the Kamloops Central Business Improvement Association: www.kcbia.com

Find a local WorkBC Employment Services Centre: www.workbccentres.ca

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

For more information on B.C.'s Skills for Jobs Blueprint: www.workbc.ca/skills

To find out more about the BC Jobs Plan: www.engage.gov.bc.ca/bcjobsplan/