On Friday November 26th, the Tradeworks FabShop launched their new program for 2010-11, by holding an Open House celebration. Visitors were able to check out the fabrication shop site, as well as some of the amazing products created by past classes who graduated from the program. This marks the first cycle of students to participate in this Vancouver Olympics legacy program.
After filing in out of the rain, almost 100 guests and volunteers mingled with the participants and instructors of the program, or enjoyed touring the large space until the stage was set, and the inspirational speakers were ready. Addressing the audience who had gathered around the stage, Ross Gentleman, Executive Director of Tradeworks, recognized those who played a essential role in making this program possible, including Russ Jones from RONA, who took to the stage and expressed how excited the company and the RONA Foundation were to be once again supporting the FabShop program.
A highlight of the afternoon was when Laurie Murray, a new participant in the program, took the stage and described the impact of only the first few days at the FabShop, and the optimism it gave her. As a single mother who suffered minor brain injuries after an accident, Murray found herself in a difficult situation, struggling to make ends meet while raising a child. Standing tall with a huge smile, Laurie explains how the FabShop, “…has shown [her] how to be a strong, independent woman and with these skills; [she has] been a better worker and a better mother to [her] son”. She went on to, “…thank everyone who has to do with funding and providing the program, and [she] thought [she] would throw out there that Kevin Cassidy has been able to teach [her] things, other teachers never were able to do. So a big thanks to you”.
This innovative program takes in 17 at-risk students every cohort, from a variety of backgrounds, and teaches them the in-demand skills of fabrication and carpentry. Participants gain workplace experience, practical skills, and confidence. These essential stepping-stones can then help to craft future successes, and provide direction for the next stage of participants’ lives.
The FabShop is a social enterprise that produces wood products and services. The next goal of our business is to source fabrication contracts from repeat purchasers. As an FSC ce
rtified facility, the Fab Shop has the ability to deliver top quality, sustainable wood products while also providing real world employment for trainees. It is a win-win business decision for any company looking for a way to meet social sustainability or other CSR objectives.
For more information about purchasing/ordering products made by the FabShop, please visit our website at: http://www.thefabshop.ca/.
Tradeworks Fabrication Shop
1220 East 2nd Ave.,
Vancouver. B.C.
V6A 3Y6
Phone: (604) 876-2011 | Email: info@thefabshop.ca
