PEACHLAND — Okanagan construction students facing personal challenges are getting a chance to rebuild their lives. They are enrolled in a training program developed by Fortis B.C., B.C. Hydro and the John Howard Society called Residential Energy Efficiency Works (REnEW), which is giving them the tools to transform their lives.
Dorian O’Donnell, 29, says his Asperger’s syndrome had been a roadblock in finding meaningful work. He was initially apprehensive about joining the program but says it has motivated him to become a more confident individual.
“When I first got into the program, I thought I wasn’t going to do this, I wouldn’t do well,” he says. “I feel like it has matured me in such a big way. It’s made my parents realize how much more involved I am.”
Nicole Bogdanovic, a Fortis B.C. spokesperson, says there’s a growing demand in the energy efficiency sector and this program helps fill the need.
Instructor Ron Brewer says he’s witnessed his students blossom in just a few weeks and in the past, has even hired a few program graduates.
“They’re really great employees; they’re model employees, actually. Some of them take longer to teach, but once they’ve got it they’re absolutely great employees,” he says.
There’s an added benefit to the current REnEW project.
The students are creating more energy-efficient homes for six deserving Okanagan families with financial struggles. This is a Habitat for Humanity project, where the families will be able to eventually own the homes through low-cost mortgages.
“For our families, it means they’re going to have a stable home. This is their home, so they don’t have to leave in a year because of the rents have gone up,” says Deborah Gutherie, the Executive Director of Habitat for Humanity Kelowna.
Affordable housing is a major issue Rod Steuart knows firsthand because it’s caused him to become homeless. But he believes he now has the tools to build a new possibilities.
After getting the classroom and hands-on training, the eight students will soon be on work placement, where they hope to find full-time employment.
Comments