A powerful initiative is underway in Saint John, New Brunswick, aiming to transform the lives of young adults aged 15 to 29. The READY program, an acronym for Repairing Education and Employment Achievement Debts to Youth, has received a significant boost with $4.4 million in funding from the federal government. This program provides a comprehensive support system, offering education, skills training, and general guidance to help youth find meaningful employment and a brighter future.
Christina Fowler, CEO of the Saint John Learning Exchange, shares a heartfelt story about the youth who seek help at the center. "They slowly begin to believe in themselves because we believe in them," she says. This belief and support have a profound impact, as Fowler describes seeing these same youth, initially hesitant and unsure, transform into confident individuals ready to take on the world.
Nickole Theriault, an 18-year-old participant, shares her journey. She recalls feeling discouraged and disconnected from education due to bullying and classroom pressures. Theriault dropped out of St. Malachy's High School but found a new path at the Learning Exchange, where she could study at her own pace and excel academically. She also discovered a passion for working at Stone Soup Catering, a social enterprise, and began planning her future as a veterinarian.
The READY program, already active, is now able to expand its reach thanks to federal funding. It aims to serve 200 youth annually, offering not just education and skills training but also crucial support services. Theriault herself had been on the waitlist, a common experience for many youth seeking help. The additional funding will create more opportunities and enhance skills training, connecting youth with potential employers.
Fowler highlights the success of their trades training approach, with 13 young people recently graduating and securing full-time jobs as insulators. The program's "wrap-around" supports include access to mental health services and addiction support, as well as leadership and teamwork training through project work. For participants like Theriault, it also means assistance with finding housing, setting up bank accounts, and obtaining proper identification.
"We provide case management and coaching support so they can not only get a job but keep it," Fowler explains. The center offers a range of skills training, from culinary arts to carpentry, providing youth with diverse opportunities.
Chris Miller, a 17-year-old who attended Simonds High School before joining the Learning Exchange, immersed himself in culinary and carpentry classes. He baked the cupcakes served at the funding announcement and crafted benches now part of the Learning Exchange's furniture. Miller sees a future in the trades, recognizing their importance, and aspires to build his own house one day. He believes in the value of having diverse skills, from baking to carpentry.
Jessica Charlton, another participant, shares a similar story of bullying and dropping out of Harbourview High School in Grade 9. She overcame shyness and an addiction problem with the support of the Learning Exchange and is now a confident young adult, serving on the youth advisory council. Charlton works with children at the C.E. Nick Nicolle Community Centre and plans to pursue a career as an educational assistant or support worker.
The READY program's focus is on helping young people find rewarding work in a province with a 17% youth unemployment rate. However, Fowler emphasizes the upcoming worker shortage, highlighting the need for engaged and eager youth like Charlton, Theriault, and Miller. Employers are seeking the right talent, and Fowler believes youth are the key to a successful workforce.
"They're looking for the right fit, the right people," Fowler says. "They're willing to give chances. We want our youth to be successful, and they are our future workforce."
This initiative not only provides education and skills but also empowers youth to believe in themselves and their potential. It's a powerful example of how support and belief can transform lives and shape a brighter future for our youth.
