RADF Investment: $1,679,914

Other Investment: $599,000

Total Investment: $2,278,914

Project Period: July 2011 - December 2013

T: 780.645.4455

Project Description

Creating Home – Reclaiming the Self is a social enterprise program aimed at helping Aboriginal youth address issues of chronic unemployment, insufficient housing, substance abuse and overall well-being. The project will provide business training and hands-on trades training to at-risk participants in constructing solid timber, log-frame modular homes combined with program support in maintaining an addiction-free lifestyle. The Blue Quills First Nations College, along with its seven member bands, will deliver the program through classroom and experiential teachings grounded with an Indigenous approach to holistic healing.

Expected Outcomes and Benefits

All projects go through a selection process to ensure they will improve the quality of life for Albertans. This project meets this objective through the following outcomes and benefits:

• Increases access to trades training for Aboriginal youth
• Provides for a sustainable program based on an economic social enterprise model
• Creates employment opportunities and increases number of skilled trades people
• Provides opportunities for graduates to establish spin-off businesses and become self-employed entrepreneurs
• Improves quality of life for program participants and community as a whole
• Expands desire for entering other trades apprenticeship programs, such as plumbing or electrical