Victoria, BC– The Construction Foundation of BC is creating positive impact in the lives of young people who have or are currently transitioning out of government care in British Columbia by providing an opportunity to gain industry knowledge and experience through their SHIFT: from care to career initiative. Thanks to a recent $25,000 grant from Coast Capital Savings, more young people will be provided with an opportunity to access training and supports as they move from care to career.
Born out of a desire to make a difference in the lives of young people, the SHIFT program works with existing programs to connect with youth to help them cultivate the attitude, skills and knowledge that employers in the construction industry look for in new hires.
Ranking high on the list of required skills for youth looking to enter the construction industry is the need for them to have a driver’s license; without being able to drive, youth struggle to make it to work as job sites may change and may not be close to home. To help address this gap, the Foundation provides financial and in-kind supports to help youth in and from government care learn to drive safely through an approved course and continue on to obtain their driver’s licence.
“Applied learning develops skills for life. Through hands on experience, young people develop the connection and confidence to take the next steps towards employment and being engaged citizens.” stated Abigail Fulton, Executive Director of the Construction Foundation of BC. “Youth in and from care may face unique barriers that require collaborative approaches to overcome. The SHIFT initiative offers entry to employment and apprenticeship that are excellent avenues for personal success.”
Recently, Coast Capital Savings provided a generous grant to help further the good works being done via the SHIFT initiative. “The contribution provided by Coast Capital Savings to the SHIFT Fund is very impactful,” stated Abigail Fulton, executive director of the Construction Foundation of BC. “Industry support and community involvement in the training and development of the next generation of workers is critical as we face increased demand for workers.”
Construction is currently ranked as the number one employer in BC’s goods sector and employs over 210,000 people, making it a strong industry for youth to consider as they plan for the future. Industry involvement and support of youth as they age out of care will contribute to the development of British Columbian’s next generation of industry professionals and help to ensure a successful future in BC’s construction industry.
Thank you to Coast Capital Savings for their generous support.
