More of Kamloops’ back alleys are going to be turned into art galleries, thanks to more than $19,000 in provincial funding for a work experience project.

The Kamloops Central Business Improvement Association is receiving the funding to continue its Back Alley Art Gallery Job Creation Partnership project, which gives two people work experience, while helping to beautify the downtown core’s alleyways. This will encourage pedestrian traffic and reduce vandalism through art in high graffiti areas.

Mural locations for this year’s project are behind Red Collar Brewing Co., Service Canada and Carlos O’Bryan’s Pub. The project’s two participants began on July 18, 2016, and are gaining work experience in large-scale design and mural painting techniques, as well as communications and networking with local businesses and stakeholders. The participants will be better prepared to find full-time employment once the project is complete on Oct. 21, 2016.

The Back Alley Art Gallery initiative also received more than $19,000 in provincial funding last fall for two people to gain work experience with the Kamloops Central Business Improvement Association painting murals at All Aboard Games, the Fremont Block building and at Hampton Gallery.

Ministry of Social Development and Social Innovation funding is provided through the Job Creation Partnerships stream of the Community and Employer Partnerships program, which funds projects that increase employability levels and share labour market information.

Community and Employer Partnerships are featured in B.C.’s Skills for Jobs Blueprint and provides support to people who are struggling to gain a foothold in the job market. It also helps build stronger partnerships with industry and labour to connect British Columbians with classroom instruction 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, more than 1,200 job seekers have benefited from work experience and more than 240 projects have been funded throughout the province.

(flickr.com)

Quotes:

Michelle Stilwell, Minister of Social Development and Social Innovation –

“I’m happy to continue to support this project as it provides two people a chance to find their fit in our growing economy, while helping to beautify Kamloops’ alleyways.”

Terry Lake, MLA for Kamloops-North Thompson and Minister of Health –

“I’m proud of our government for once again funding this project with the Kamloops Central Business Improvement Association as it not only helps two people in their search for employment, but also reduces vandalism in the city’s core.”

Todd Stone, MLA for Kamloops-South Thompson and Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure –

“Two people are getting a great chance to play key roles in a project that will be an important factor in the beautification of Kamloops. I can’t wait to see the finished result and see these two residents become part of our growing economy.”

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

“The provincial government support for our Back Alley Art Gallery program development has far exceeded our initial expectations. Not only is it an integral part of our complete streets initiative – public spaces that are friendly, supportive, appealing and safe – but it has become a great tourism product, welcoming thousands of visitors and art appreciators each year.”

Erica Crowe, project participant –

“Creative, fun, exciting. These are three words I would use to describe working as a mural artists’ assistant with the KCBIA. Having the opportunity to paint murals has been amazing. I never thought I could get paid to paint. I have always loved painting and was thrilled when I was hired for this job. I have learned so many new skills and techniques while working with Kelly Wright and Britanee Neufeld on the murals on Red Collar Brewery. I feel that I have already improved my painting skills so much and am looking forward to learning more as we move on to the next mural.”

Quick Facts:

• Local WorkBC Employment Services Centres play a leading role in connecting eligible job seekers to Job Creation Partnerships and Project-Based Labour Market Training opportunities in their communities. Once a connection between the client and a suitable project has been made, the WorkBC centre continues to provide financial support and services to ensure the client’s success.
• In 2016-17, the ministry has committed to investing $331 million in employment and labour market programs under the Employment Program of British Columbia.
• The Employment Program of BC is funded by the Province of British Columbia and 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 for Community and Employer Partnerships funding?

• Businesses
• Non-profit organizations
• Crown corporations
• Municipalities, agencies or territorial governments
• First Nation bands/tribal councils
• Public health and educational institutions

Learn More:

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

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/