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By SANDRA HENNESSEY
For The Daily Gleaner

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MINTO - A job-readiness program funded by the federal government is helping make futures brighter for young people in the Grand Lake area.

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TURNING THINGS AROUND: Pictured at the North Minto Seniors' Residence are manager Paula Fasquel, left, and Mandy McLaughlin, who was hired after completing placement there as part of the Grand Lake Intervention Centre Program.

The Grand Lake Intervention Centre Program was developed from a program started in Oromocto and was set up as a pilot project in Minto and Chipman.

The program offers opportunities for people from age 17 to 30 whose schooling has been interrupted to prepare to go into the workforce or back into the education system.

The program is funded by Human Resources and Skills Development Canada, Youth Employment Strategy. People are referred through School District 17, probation services, RCMP and public health offices.

The first session of the Grand Lake area program was held at Minto Memorial High School from June until October. Co-ordinator Rose-Marie Stewart said she's pleased with the results. Eight students completed the 17-week course and graduated.

"Six of those are now employed in the area, and two others made the decision to go back and further their education," Stewart said.

"The Chipman phase of the area program is now underway, having started Nov. 3 at Chipman Forest Avenue School, with eight students enrolled. Proposals are in the works to continue the program based on the success achieved."

One of the success stories belongs to Mandy McLaughlin, a 19-year-old single parent who did her nine-week job placement at the North Minto Seniors' Residence.

After leaving school in Grade 12, McLaughlin worked at a call centre and a convenience store before enrolling in the intervention program in Minto. Hired at the residence after graduating, McLaughlin said she now looks forward to a brighter future.

"The program was well worth taking. It was basically job preparation, and I like this work," she says of her duties at the seniors' residence.

"It's a good feeling to work with the seniors, knowing I have helped them out. I know when I get older I'd like to be taken care of by someone who enjoys doing the work."

McLaughlin works full time at the residence while studying one day a week in Fredericton for a certificate as a home support worker/special care attendant.

"It requires serious budgeting and child care and transportation to be worked out, too," she says of her career pursuit.

"We were pleased with Mandy's enthusiasm and her work ethic," said Paula Fasquel, manager of the North Minto Seniors' Residence. "That's why we hired her."

McLaughlin hasn't been the sole beneficiary.

"I've seen the difference the program makes in the lives of these kids," Stewart said.

"Once they get out into the working world and surround themselves with people who are successful, it inspires them to bring themselves to that level, and to know they can."