Diversifying Revenue Streams Through Innovative Program Development or Social Purpose Enterprise

Success Story NCDS Career Works, Fort Frances

“NCDS Career Works developed the Aboriginal Youth in Construction Skilled Trades program targeting ten First Nation Communities.  NCDS is actively marketing to local First Nation communities through forums to encourage first Nation youth to become involved in Skilled Trades (particularly in the area of construction which has been identified by the Aboriginal Human Resource Development Strategy as a preferred area by aboriginal people).  Construction trades are employment areas that provide more opportunities for youth to stay and work in their own communities. This program development initiative is multifunctional. It will increase our own intake numbers, improve our Skilled Trades workshop numbers and outcomes, while addressing a known shortfall in the labour market. It will also allow NCDS Career Works to better partner with First Nations and become part of the solution to some of the problems that exist for young aboriginals”.

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Food For Thought

In the process of integrating programs, it is crucial to be aware of the capacity of staff and resources to handle increased and diverse responsibilities.  There is a point where the efficiencies and effectiveness of program integration is nullified by over-extension of resources and the overwhelming of staff. A commitment to ongoing monitoring and program evaluation is necessary, and it is also important to encourage and respond to staff input and have them directly involved in program design. The primary driver of program design must be quality and impact of programs, not cost savings.

Project PartnersONESTEP OAYEC ACTEW
Special Thanks to Our SponsorsTHE ONTARIO TRILLIUM FOUNDATION EMPLOYMENT ONTARIO