Application forms for popular Summer Works Program available Feb. 21
Honey Candles, Kaslo
If you own a small business in the Basin, you can get financial help to hire a student over the summer by applying for a wage subsidy from Columbia Basin Trust’s Summer Works Program. Application forms are available starting February 21, 2014, at cbt.org/summerworks. Because the program is popular, you’re encouraged to submit your application form as soon as possible.
Kaslo’s Honey Candles was one of the businesses that benefited from the program last year.
“It was so beneficial having a student assist with day-to-day operations throughout the summer,” said owner Leah Honkanen. “Her employment allowed me to focus on other areas of the business, and it felt wonderful to provide an opportunity for youth employment in a rural area.”
Golden’s Cedar House Restaurant and Chalets was one of the businesses that benefited from the program last year.
“The Summer Works Program provided support during our busy summer season by giving us the ability to hire a student,” said owner Darrin De Rosa. “The program provides a great opportunity for growth for both the student and the employer.”
Rossland’s The Red Pair Shoe Store was one of the businesses that benefited from the program last year.
“The Summer Works program is fantastic,” said owner Stephanie Robinson. “I can hire a student who needs to work during the summer months, and I can afford to give her those hours. I would be one burnt-out person without this program.”
Summer Works also helped The Red Pair Shoe Store’s summer student, Jenessa Turner: “I was so thankful that my employer offered me this employment under the Summer Works Program. It gave me the opportunity to work more hours, and thus be able to pay for my schooling next year. Without the program, I would not have been able to work as many hours and learn as many retail skills as I did.”
Fernie’s Giv’er Shirtworks was one of the businesses that benefited from the program last year.
“The Summer Works Program gave my business an opportunity we wouldn’t have been able to take on otherwise,” said owner Erin Summers. “The program administrators are extremely helpful, which makes it simple for businesses to participate. I would recommend the program to any business owner looking to add value to their business. Libby was a great addition to our team.”
Summer Works also helped Giv’er Shirtworks’ summer student, Libby Vanderschuit: “I found working at Giv’er Shirtworks to be very helpful. It is liberating to be in a workplace where you are surrounded by great people who encourage you to progress in your work. I had the freedom to create, which is essential for me. I am very thankful for the experience.”
To help businesses offer summer jobs to high school and post-secondary students, the program provides a wage subsidy of up to $8 per hour for entry-level or career related positions. Since 2010, Summer Works has helped create up to 150 student jobs each summer in the Columbia Basin.
“Businesses benefit from the extra staff support and students earn money for school plus get valuable job experience – it’s positive for everyone involved,” said Sabrina Curtis, Director, Sector Initiatives at Columbia Basin Trust.
College of the Rockies administers the Summer Works Program. “Delivering this program for the Trust is an excellent way for us to help students throughout the Basin, plus affect the development of local economies,” said Tracey Whiting, Manager, Continuing Education and Contract Training, College of the Rockies.
For more information about the program, visit cbt.org/summerworks, email summerworks@ourtrust.org or call 1.877.489.2687, ext. 3644.
