The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is providing $80,000 in funding for a new skill development and career planning program. STEPS � Steps Toward Employment and Personal Success will be operated through the Labrador Friendship Centre. The Honourable Shawn Skinner, Minister of Human Resources, Labour and Employment, made the announcement today in Happy Valley-Goose Bay.

"The program provides individuals with the opportunity to develop their skills and gain valuable workforce experience," said Minister Skinner. "Through this initiative, they are provided with the opportunity to take part in the workforce and experience first-hand the economic growth that exists in Newfoundland and Labrador."

The STEPS skill development and career planning program employment program is a client-centered initiative for six individuals, 30 years of age and older who have had minimum connection to the workforce. The program consists of personal skill development, and career planning strategies. Individuals also participate in 26 weeks of employment, providing valuable work experience. Upon completion of the program, staff at the Labrador Friendship Centre will provide follow up support to participants to assist in obtaining additional training or further connection to the workforce.

"With its growing economy, Labrador is still in the early stages of maximizing opportunities for development," said the Honourable John Hickey, Minister of Labrador Affairs. "The STEPS program will allow people to develop the necessary skills to find meaningful and sustainable jobs in our expanding communities."

"We are very pleased to be able to have a partnership with the Department of Human Resources, Labour and Employment to deliver this very worthwhile project to the clients of the Labrador Friendship Centre," said Stanley Oliver, Executive Director of the Labrador Friendship Centre. "This program, as correctly titled, is the first step in allowing people to participate in the workforce."

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