Bulletin - January 2024
From empowering education to clothing donations shaping futures, join us in celebrating the stories that define MetroWorks. Discover the vibrant new spaces at EDGE, the gratitude we extend to our tutors, and the digital learning tools at Cunard Learning Centre. As we delve into funding proposals, express heartfelt thanks, and tease upcoming collaborations, be part of the inspiring moments that make MetroWorks a community-driven force.
Options Clothing: Your Donations give your community Opportunities
Your gently used clothes can make a world of difference for MetroWorks participants. Our used clothing store, Clothing Options, serves a dual purpose, fostering hands-on learning for Options program participants and providing affordable clothing options for individuals across MetroWorks programs.
The heart of Clothing Options lies in its role as a practical training ground for Options participants pursuing customer service skills. The store is a supportive learning space where they can hone on-the-job skills, empowering them for future employment opportunities. This initiative contributes to the growth and development of fellow community members.
As the popularity of Clothing Options soars, we find ourselves running low on inventory. We turn to you, our generous community, for clothing donations. Business attire, especially suitable for job interviews, is currently in high demand. Your donation will not only replenish our stock but also directly impact individuals striving for success in our community.
Every donated piece of clothing becomes a chance for someone to make a lasting impression in a job interview, brave stormy weather, or shine at special events. Join us in making a meaningful impact in our community—one clothing donation at a time.
How to Donate:
Drop off your clothing items at our office located at 7071 Bayers Rd, Suite LL05, Halifax, Nova Scotia, B3L 2C2, during our office hours from Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. While we appreciate all clothing donations, we kindly request that undergarments and sleepwear be excluded.
Clothing Options FAQ: Is this open to the public?
At the moment, Clothing Options operates for internal use only. However, we understand the need for community helping community, and are open to offering visits for other community organizations, by appointment. If you have any questions or special requests, please call our front office to connect with the Options program.
EDGE’s new space update
Excitement builds at EDGE as we set up our new workshop space funded by a three-year contract from Nova Scotia's Department of Community Services. Vibrant blues and warm neutrals define our multi use space, where participants will soon showcase their artistic talents through a hand-painted mural. Stay tuned for the reveal next month!
EDGE, short for Engage, Develop, Grow, Employment, is our program for older youth and young adults. Learn more about this program here.
Empowering Education: A Note to Our Tutors
At the heart of the Cunard Learning Centre's success stories are the dedicated individuals who have made education a reality for countless adults. Through Nova Scotia’s Adult Learning Program (ALP) and the Canadian Adult Education Credential (CAEC), formerly known as GED, the Cunard Learning Centre has been instrumental in helping adults achieve their educational goals, and none of this would be possible without the invaluable contribution of our committed community tutors.
Currently, our Cunard Learning Centre is supported by two passionate community tutors, with one helping enhance digital literacy for ALP Levels II and III. Alongside these tutors, we are fortunate to have three exceptional Master of Education (MEd) students from Mount Saint Vincent University actively contributing to the learning experience. Joyce, one of our instructors, has cultivated a relationship with the MEd faculty at the Mount, fostering an environment of collaboration and shared learning.
In recognizing the immense value our tutors bring, we celebrate not just their expertise, but their passion for empowering others through education. To our tutors, we extend a heartfelt thank you.
Digital Learning Tools at Cunard Learning Centre
Did you know that Cunard provides online learning tools such as IXL for Math and Townsend Press Learning Centre for English? These digital resources help us cater to the diverse needs of our adult learners.
The IXL Math program spans a comprehensive range, from Pre-Kindergarten to Calculus, allowing our math students to engage with practice questions, instructional videos, and entertaining math games. It's a dynamic platform that adapts to individual learning styles, enabling students to study from the comfort of their homes or any environment that suits them.
In the realm of English education, we proudly utilize Townsend Press Learning Centre, a powerful tool that aligns with the texts reviewed in our classes. This learning platform not only provides essential lessons but also incorporates interactive elements, making the learning journey engaging and tailored to the unique needs of our adult learners.
Whether it's answering practice questions, watching instructional videos, or participating in interactive exercises, these digital resources at Cunard Learning Centre help enrich the learning experience, ensuring that education remains accessible and impactful.
You can learn more about IXL here.
You can learn more about Townsend Press here.
Funding Proposal for Newcomer Women
On to some of the more nitty-gritty of non-profit work… writing funding proposals! (Those who know, know.)Our Newcomer Women program has diligently worked on a funding proposal, aiming for another five years of supporting newcomers find meaningful work in Canada. With over 200 active participants and language support in 13 languages, the program continues to thrive. We look forward to continuing our work with IRCC and to secure funding for this vital initiative.
To learn more about the Newcomer Women program, click here.
A Heartfelt Thanks to Lawtons
In the spirit of community collaboration, we extend a special note of appreciation to Lawtons on Bayers Road for their incredible generosity. In both December 2023 and this month, Lawtons brought several pallets of products to our office. The local Lawtons team's thoughtful donation, mainly consisting of toiletries, skincare, cleaning products, and cosmetics, has left a lasting impact on our participants. Our participants walked away with these new products, ready for the holiday season, and post holiday season this month. All the products found meaningful homes, even the 100+ bottles of nail polish!
Meals for Salvation Army Teaser!
Stay tuned for an exciting announcement with the Salvation Army next month! Building on the success of our collaboration with Halifax Meals on Wheels, we are thrilled to share that the Salvation Army has ordered 40 meals twice a week to support their community. More details coming soon!
As we conclude our January 2024 Bulletin, we extend our thanks to the MetroWorks community—participants, supporters, and partners alike. Your commitment to empowerment, education, and community collaboration is the heartbeat of our shared journey. Until our next bulletin, stay connected, stay inspired, and keep making a difference in the lives of those around you. Thank you for being an integral part of the MetroWorks story.
