Yvonne Jones

Government of Canada and Newfoundland and Labrador invest in social enterprise to promote greening and diversity

October 6, 2023

Government of Canada and Newfoundland and Labrador invest in social enterprise to promote greening and diversity

Federal and provincial funding helps Broadening Horizons renovate its recycling facility and pre-employment centre

October 6, 2023 · Gander, Newfoundland and Labrador · Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)

Social enterprises, non-profits, charities and co‑operatives are key contributors to the economy in Atlantic Canada. They are at the forefront of tackling Canada’s persistent social and environmental challenges and create a positive space for the communities they serve. The Government of Canada, and Newfoundland and Labrador have invested to help Broadening Horizons renovate and enhance their existing training and recycling facility.

Supporting green initiatives and individuals with diverse abilities

Today, Yvonne Jones, Member of Parliament for Labrador, announced an investment of $531,393 to Broadening Horizons to assist with their renovations to promote greening and diversity. This announcement was made on behalf of the Honourable Gudie Hutchings, Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency. The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador has also contributed $59,133 in support.

Serving the Town of Gander and surrounding area, Broadening Horizons operates as a non-profit recycling facility, promoting the reuse of recyclable materials while educating residents on the positive environmental impacts of recycling. This social enterprise also operates a pre-employment training facility for individuals with diverse abilities. Program participants work directly in various management and processing positions within the recycling facility, often moving into permanent positions in the broader community as a result of the skills and experience attained.

Atlantic Canada has the wind in its sails. The Government of Canada, and Newfoundland and Labrador, are working together to build on the region’s momentum, and ensure that Canadians of all abilities have the chance to participate in an inclusive, sustainable economy that works for everyone.

Quotes

“Inclusion is the cornerstone of a fair and equitable society. With its newly renovated facility, Broadening Horizons is not only helping to create a greener environment, it is providing meaningful work, training and education opportunities for people with diverse needs and abilitites. By coming together to support projects like this one, we are building more engaged, resilient communities and stronger economies.”
- The Honourable Gudie Hutchings, Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency

“The Provincial Government is happy to provide support that will help support a more stable social enterprise. We recognize the innovative efforts of existing social enterprises, such as Broadening Horizons, and we are pleased to contribute funding that will provide clients with valuable work experience and inclusion opportunities. Our department is committed to promoting the creation of new social enterprises and supporting those that already exist, helping ensure our province can realize the social and economic benefits they bring to communities and regions.”
- Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology

“I would like to acknowledge the significant contribution made by ACOA, the Provincial Government and the Town of Gander. After nearly 20 years in operation, this support has finally allowed us to bring our recycling program and our pre-employment program under one roof. This updated facility will ensure that Broadening Horizons will continue to meet the needs of adults with intellectual disabilities in our community as well as benefit the environment of the region."

- Dr. Carmel Casey, Board Chair, Broadening Horizons

Quick facts

Broadening Horizons’ pre-employment training facility teaches the importance of good work skills, teamwork, social interaction, conflict management, healthy lifestyles and community involvement. Some of the program participants work directly in various processing positions within the recycling facility, often succeeding to permanent positions as a result of the skills and experience attained.
As a result of this initiative, Broadening Horizons is now fully accessible, providing opportunities for integration in the community and contributions to the economy.
ACOA support for this project was through the Regional Economic Growth through Innovation (REGI) program.

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Contacts

Kevin Lemkay

Director of Communications

Office of the Minister of Rural Economic Development and of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency

[email protected]

Paul McGrath

Director of Communications

Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency

709-689-5731
[email protected]

Lesley Clarke

Industry, Energy and Technology