Executive Council
May 27, 2015

The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable Steve Kent, Minister Responsible for the Office of Public Engagement.

Provincial Government Celebrates 70 Years of Stella’s Circle

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in this Honourable House to celebrate the success of an organization which has been helping people move forward in the areas of residential and non-residential counselling services, employment services and supportive housing for 70 years.

Stella's Circle began with Emmanuel House in 1945. The organization was incorporated in 1995 and now offers residential and non-residential counselling services, employment services and supportive housing. Annually, the programs at Stella's Circle help over 1,000 people overcome challenges related to poverty, illiteracy, incarceration, as well as mental health issues.

Mr. Speaker, when the Provincial Government partnered with Stella’s Circle to launch the Social Enterprise Training program in 2011, we were excited about the possibility of helping the organization increase their training capacity. Through the original Social Enterprise Training program, and its subsequent iteration, Stella’s Circle provides workplace-based training in three distinct program areas: food services, trades helper and commercial cleaning. As an example of the organization’s employment-based work, 450 students last year were engaged in a variety of programs and services. Many successfully found work and acquired the skills needed to improve their employment prospects, which also improved the quality of life for themselves and their families.

Mr. Speaker, last year, we proudly supported the organization through an investment of over $5 million – which they utilized to break down barriers and help individuals in making the kinds of connections that enhance their future. As we celebrate 70 years of success for Stella’s Circle, I want to acknowledge two pillars of strength within the organization, both past and present. Earlier this month, Jocelyn Greene, the former executive director of Stella Burry Community Services, was given the Order of Canada. Ms. Greene is credited with transforming the Emmanuel House residential treatment program into Stella's Circle and making it one of the largest non-profit organizations in the province.

When Ms. Greene retired last year, Lisa Browne stepped in as Chief Executive Officer and continued to lead the charge, raising the organization’s public profile and focusing on sustainability and innovation. Ms. Browne is also a recipient of the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal for her contributions to the community. Mr. Speaker, I ask my Honourable colleagues to join me in recognizing the work of these two individuals, and the success of Stella’s Circle, in providing services that are transforming people’s lives.

Thank you.

2015 05 27                              2:20 p.m.