Kits to help train troubled youths!

[jamesson]

G'Day everyone!

I came across this article and wanted to share it with everyone.
It seems there is going to be more snake bites in the near future.
This is awesome.
How about you guys down south look into a program like this, it would definitely be great enjoyment for everyone involved.

Here is the article.
The Ottawa Citizen

Cars-from-kits project steers for local support
Fast Track to Employment program aims to train troubled youths by having them assemble replicas of the Cobra roadster

Friday, May 02, 2003

A project to build sports cars from kits could carry hard-to-employ young people from the streets to steady automotive jobs, its Ottawa organizers hope.

Scheduled to start in November, the Fast Track to Employment program is aimed at training homeless and at-risk youths by having them assemble replicas of the famous Cobra roadster.

"These kids represent some of the difficult cases that people hear about," explains Jan Sistek of Rideau Street Youth Enterprises (RSYE), the non-profit agency behind the plan.

"They're the ones that people think, 'Something should be done,' but it's a challenge to develop effective programs for them."

Three teams of five young people each will build the kit-cars under the supervision of licensed technicians and trainers.

The program will operate with federal and provincial government support to cover the training costs. Local employers in the automotive sector are being solicited to donate tools, car parts, work placements and cash to help buy the vehicle components.

Already, Lecavalier Auto/Truck Repair has made space available in which the cars can be built.

Other employers and clients of RSYE have said they are interested in taking part.

A car buff, Mr. Sistek believes the project is an exciting idea that will motivate youths to sign up and stick with the 24-week program. Upon completion, a further 16 weeks of on-the-job training will be supplied with the help of employers.

"The aim is for participants to recognize the opportunities available in the automotive sector, build their skills and get them into employment," said Mr. Sistek. "Maybe afterwards some will enrol in an automotive apprenticeship."

Participants will alternate between the classroom and the shop floor. Building a car from scratch will expose them to a range of technical skills, from auto body to mechanical service to driver training.

The kits will come from Diva Sportscars, an Ottawa-area custom car manufacturer. Major components, such as engines and transmissions, will be purchased ready to install. Diva Sportscars is donating windshields and optional hardtops.

The assembled vehicles will be turned over to charities, becoming part of their fundraising programs.

A training allowance of $6.85 an hour will provide a steady income to participants, who can also expect help with work clothes and other necessities required to complete the program.

Participants will also receive comprehensive life skills training under the supervision of RYSE youth worker Michelle Theriault.

"It's more than simply finding them work," says Ms. Theriault of the typical RYSE client.

"Many disadvantaged youths lack social and parental supports. They may lack work experience and have issues with self-esteem, personal presentation, housing and health."

To address these issues, Ms. Theriault is developing a plan that addresses the needs of each participant. "For many of our clients, a program like this is a lifeline. We're providing job opportunities for a category of youth that employers may typically not consider."

According to Mr. Sistek, many of the youth associated with RYSE are looking for a way to improve their circumstances. "We work with kids who are actually sleeping in parks and under bridges, yet they're able to report for work at 7 a.m. when given the opportunity. This will be a way for them to really get on their feet."

Established in 1994 as a registered charity, RYSE has a successful history of offering programs for hard-to-serve youth. Enterprises include recycling, landscaping, litter pickup and snow removal.

Fast Track organizers say they hope to enlist the support of community partners, from garages, paint and body shops and driving schools to dealerships and retail chains. If your company or agency would like to participate, phone RYSE at (613) 562-3864.

Paul Williams can be reached at driving@thecitizen.canwest.com .

He'll report regularly for Driving on the progress of the Fast Track for Employment project.



© Copyright 2003 The Ottawa Citizen


Cheers
Jim