Bulletin - February 2024
Welcome to the February edition of the MetroWorks Bulletin, where stories of empowerment, community collaboration, and transformative journeys take center stage. In this month's collection of updates, we invite you to explore the diverse initiatives that define our commitment to making a positive impact in the lives of individuals and communities. From the launch of Money Path Atlantic's podcast — providing a platform for unique money stories — to insightful visits from distinguished guests like MP Lena Metlege Diab and Minister Kamal Khera, this bulletin encapsulates the spirit and empowerment of community.
Money Path Atlantic has started their Podcast Trail!
The first episode of Money Path Atlantic's Podcast is now available! This podcast aims to reshape money conversations within communities across Nova Scotia. It's not just about dollars and cents; it's about the stories woven into our lives by money. In Episode 1: "Just Keep Talking," listeners will hear from a Pictou County trailblazer sharing her unique money journey and the two significant goals she's saving for: a trip and education. Dive into real money and life stories shaping our communities on YouTube, Amazon Music, Apple Podcasts, Castbox, iHeartRadio, Pocket Casts, or Spotify.
Listen to Episode 1 on YouTube here.
MP Lena Diab and Minister Khera's Visit to MetroWorks
This month, MetroWorks had a visit from Halifax West Member of Parliament, Lena Metlege Diab, and the Honourable Kamal Khera, Minister of Diversity, Inclusion, and Persons with Disabilities. They had an insightful tour of Stone Hearth Bakery, providing them with a firsthand look into our transformative and inclusive employability programming. Their visit not only showcased the impact of our initiatives, but also highlighted the power of collaboration in creating positive change.
The Honourable Kamal Khera posted on Instagram saying “@stonehearth_bakery in partnership with @mymetroworks is transforming lives one loaf of bread at a time. It provides newcomers and persons with disabilities essential skills to thrive in the workplace and today’s economy.”
MP Lena Metlege Diab also had this to say in her own Instagram post: “Give someone an opportunity and watch them thrive. That’s the Stone Hearth Bakery mission, and they sure are succeeding in it. Not only does the bakery produce some of the yummiest bagels, cookies, and breads to be found in Halifax, but it equips newcomers and people of all abilities with sought-after skills and invaluable experience to take out into the workforce.”
A heartfelt thank you to the Honourable Kamal Khera and MP Lena Metlege Diab for visiting our MetroWorks office and meeting all the people that make what we do possible. Your shared commitment to inclusivity and empowerment resonates deeply with our mission. It's an honour to have you witness the profound impact of Stone Hearth Bakery and our programs.
Newcomer Women Program Celebrates African Heritage Month
In a celebration of cultural exchange, the Newcomer Women Program recently visited the Black Cultural Centre for Nova Scotia during African Heritage Month. While the primary focus of the Newcomer Women Program is to help newcomers find employment in their new home, it extends beyond professional pursuits to showcase community and history, and help develop relationships and networks.
The mission of Black Cultural Centre for Nova Scotia is to Protect, Preserve and Promote the history and culture of African Nova Scotians. The Centre is a museum and cultural gathering place, where the rich history of Canada’s oldest and long standing Black communities can be discovered and explored.
EDGE's Digital Vision of an Ideal Community
In a dynamic collaboration within EDGE's online division, the youth and young adult program participants used digital media to show their ideal community. Here are their visuals that reflect their ideal community.
Tax Clinics Begin: Get Help Filing Your Taxes for Free!
Tax season is upon us, and MetroWorks and Money Path Atlantic are part of the Community Volunteer Income Tax Program (CVITP). Anyone with modest income and a simple tax situation can get free help with filing their taxes. You can find out if you’re eligible here.
To make an appointment, you can call MetroWorks at 902-453-6246, and we can see you in our office in Halifax. If you’re not located in the city, we can also connect you to the other Money Path Atlantic office hubs: Mill Road Social Enterprises in Inverness, and Valley Community Learning Association in Kentville.
As we bring this edition to a close, we extend our gratitude to everyone who contributes to the MetroWorks community and embraces the spirit of collaboration. Your support amplifies our efforts to create inclusive opportunities, foster employability, and celebrate the richness of diversity. Join us in looking forward to the coming weeks, filled with tax clinics, cultural exchanges, and the vibrant visions of an ideal community through the lens of EDGE's creative youth. Thank you for being part of our journey, and we can't wait to share more inspiring stories in the next bulletin. Until then, stay connected, stay empowered, and let's continue making a meaningful impact together.
