• A program such as this provides an opportunity to reduce the stigma that is often attached to youth and to people who live in social housing. It helps build a partnership with the community.
• It gives teenagers and young adults the chance and the support they may need to better themselves. The high start-up costs mentioned above prohibit many individuals from entering the work force even if they have the skills/motivation to do so. When they are unsure about direction or how to navigate the system they often cannot get started without assistance.
• A program that accepts applicants with significant barriers provides opportunities for young people who have been marginalized from the work force and who face challenges that are difficult to overcome. For example, many youth struggle to find employment when they have a criminal record.
• The program creates a sense of autonomy, identity, empowerment and pride in the youth that it serves.
• In many communities there is a significant skilled labour/trades shortage. Creating skilled employees who go on to further school or apprenticeships helps address that issue.
• For a training institution, this program reaches an audience that might not normally be reached and gives them an opportunity to learn about and consider post-secondary education.
• For a housing provider, it is a win in multiple areas. You are helping tenants and the organization because you are reducing long-term renovation and repair costs (i.e. due to mould prevention). At the same time, you are helping youth.