The Aboriginal Youth Leadership Program is $5,000 closer to funding its third year thanks to a donation from a local business.
TBT Engineering is partnering with the program, which mentors 20 Aboriginal young people each year. Launched by Leadership Thunder Bay and the Indian Friendship Centre in 2013, Co-Chair John DeGiacomo says the initiative aims to develop aspiring leaders in the community.
Frances Wesley is with the Indian Friendship Centre and works with students throughout the 10-month program. She says it teaches young people about the historical factors that affect the Aboriginal community, as well as the issues they continue to face today.
This year’s cohort will begin their mentorship in October, and DeGiacomo says donations like this one help remove financial barriers for participants.
Organizers hope to partner with a dozen businesses and organizations this year; the program is more than halfway towards that goal.
