Blue Door’s Construct Program Marks 5 Years of Transformative Impact

URGENT UPDATE: Blue Door proudly celebrates the five-year anniversary of its transformative Construct program, which just marked a milestone on October 21, 2023. This innovative skilled trades training initiative has become a beacon of hope for vulnerable individuals, breaking down barriers to employment and fostering real-world skills that are desperately needed.

Since its launch in 2020, Construct has empowered over 750 participants with a remarkable 90% completion rate. A staggering 80% of graduates have secured jobs, and 75% have found work specifically in the trades, showcasing the program’s critical role in addressing Canada’s housing crisis and skilled labor shortages.

“Construct is more than a training program. It’s a proven, cost-effective solution to three of Canada’s most urgent challenges: the housing crisis, skilled labour shortage, and homelessness,” said Emmy Kelly, Interim CEO of Blue Door. The program, which began in York Region, has expanded its reach to include participants from Durham and Peel Regions, reflecting a growing demand for skilled trades professionals.

The growth of Construct is staggering; it has expanded from two cohorts in its first year to twenty-five cohorts in its fifth year. This year also marks an exciting development with the launch of the program’s first-ever women’s cohort, aimed at creating equitable pathways for women entering the skilled trades.

Participants receive hands-on training in essential areas like carpentry, drywall installation, and painting, complemented by vital wraparound services. These include training wages, transportation assistance, food support, childcare services, and access to mental health resources.

Construct thrives thanks to partnerships with esteemed institutions, including Durham College, Humber Polytechnic, and LiUNA Local 506 Training Centre, ensuring participants receive a high-quality education that prepares them for success in the workforce. The program is supported by generous donations from community partners such as the Aubrey & Marla Dan Foundation, Women in the Skilled Trades (WIST), and the Future Skills Centre, among others.

In a bold move towards nationwide impact, Blue Door has recently announced the launch of Construct Canada. This expansion, backed in part by the Government of Canada’s Youth Employment and Skills Strategy, will amplify Construct’s ability to support countless individuals across the country, helping them build stable, self-sufficient futures.

With the pressing need for skilled labor and the ongoing housing crisis, Construct stands out as a vital lifeline. As it celebrates five years of success, the program exemplifies the power of community support and innovation in creating meaningful change. Stay tuned for more updates on this impactful initiative as it continues to evolve and expand its reach.

This is not just a training program; it’s a transformative movement that’s reshaping lives and communities. Share this story to spread the word about the incredible work being done through Blue Door’s Construct!