Community Builders Expands Its Mission to Sault Ste. Marie: Paving the Way for Skilled Workers and Affordable Housing

Introduction

In an exciting development for both communities and aspiring tradespeople, Community Builders has officially launched its operations in Sault Ste. Marie, marking a significant expansion of this innovative social enterprise. With a mission to not just build structures, but to construct brighter futures, Community Builders seeks to reinvest in communities by addressing local housing challenges and providing meaningful employment opportunities.

Community Builders: A Snapshot

Community Builders has gained a solid reputation as the leading construction employment social enterprise in central and northern Ontario. Since its inception nine years ago, the organization has provided comprehensive residential and commercial construction services across nearly 20 communities. Their focus primarily lies in affordable and social housing solutions, ranging from renovations and new constructions to innovative projects like modular housing and second suites.

Building Homes and Creating Opportunities

The primary goal of Community Builders goes beyond mere construction; the organization aims to create sustainable futures for individuals facing barriers to employment. Central to this mission is their vital program offering tuition-free, paid skilled trades training. Law-abiding citizens eager to enter the trades can take advantage of immersive, 12-week training courses that provide both classroom instruction and hands-on experience. Individuals gain crucial certifications, including WHMIS (Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System), MOL Four-Step, and Working at Heights, arming them with the necessary skills to thrive in the construction industry.

Expanding in Sault Ste. Marie

With Sault Ste. Marie now added to its list of operational communities, Community Builders has opened its doors to accept applications for the inaugural cohort of their skilled trades training program beginning in April. This initiative aims to empower individuals from diverse backgrounds to enter the construction workforce, thereby addressing the ongoing trades labor shortage in Ontario.

For more information on participation, interested candidates can navigate to Community Builders Training.

Building Community through Partnerships

The expansion of Community Builders into Sault Ste. Marie has been a collaborative effort among various local organizations. The City of Sault Ste. Marie, the District of Sault Ste. Marie Social Services Administration Board, and the Sault Community Career Centre have all played crucial roles in aligning initiatives that benefit the community as a whole.

Community Builders acknowledges the financial support that has made this mission possible. Key partners in this initiative include:

• The Government of Canada’s Canadian Apprenticeship Strategy
• The Province of Ontario’s Skills Development Fund
• The Home Depot Canada Foundation’s TradeWorx
• Meridian Credit Union’s Reframe program

Together, these partnerships help tackle economic challenges and enhance the skilled trades workforce in the region.

Meet the Leadership Team

Community Builders has appointed Maggie McGoldrick as the new regional managing director for Sault Ste. Marie. McGoldrick brings a wealth of experience from her time working in social equity and community leadership. Her vision for Community Builders includes equipping individuals with foundational skills and certifications to secure careers in the trades sector.

“My goal is to help people gain the foundational skills and certifications they need to start careers in the trades and construction sector and move into good-paying jobs,” McGoldrick shared. “This endeavor is not just about building a workforce; it’s about creating lasting economic value for our communities.”

Alongside McGoldrick, the leadership team includes Patrick Renaud as construction manager, Shannon Maki as training program manager, and Rick Moore as construction training facilitator. Each brings unique skills and experiences that will undoubtedly elevate Community Builders’ impact in the region.

Community Voices

The excitement surrounding this new initiative is palpable among the staff. Patrick Renaud expressed his enthusiasm, “Our team will bring a whole new experience and facet to the local construction industry and community.” Shannon Maki emphasized the importance of providing skills in a supportive learning environment, while Rick Moore highlighted the unique blending of trades work and nonprofit efforts within Community Builders.

Looking Ahead

As Community Builders prepares to hire skilled construction workers for upcoming projects, there’s a palpable sense of excitement about the positive change looming on the horizon. The organization encourages community members to explore ways to engage with them either through applications or other support options.

In conclusion, the arrival of Community Builders in Sault Ste. Marie is more than just a new business; it is an opportunity to fortify the local economy, empower individuals, and tackle the pressing issue of affordable housing. By combining efforts, resources, and a commitment to social value, Community Builders is poised to make a meaningful impact not only in the construction industry but in the entire community.

For more updates and opportunities, be sure to visit Community Builders Website. Together, let’s build a better future.