More of Kamloops’ back alleys are going to be turned into art galleries, thanks to more than $19,000 in provincial funding for a work experience project.
The Kamloops Central Business Improvement Association is receiving the funding to continue its Back Alley Art Gallery Job Creation Partnership project, which gives two people work experience, while helping to beautify the downtown core’s alleyways. This will encourage pedestrian traffic and reduce vandalism through art in high graffiti areas.
Mural locations for this year’s project are behind Red Collar Brewing Co., Service Canada and Carlos O’Bryan’s Pub. The project’s two participants began on July 18, 2016, and are gaining work experience in large-scale design and mural painting techniques, as well as communications and networking with local businesses and stakeholders. The participants will be better prepared to find full-time employment once the project is complete on Oct. 21, 2016.
The Back Alley Art Gallery initiative also received more than $19,000 in provincial funding last fall for two people to gain work experience with the Kamloops Central Business Improvement Association painting murals at All Aboard Games, the Fremont Block building and at Hampton Gallery.
Ministry of Social Development and Social Innovation funding is provided through the Job Creation Partnerships stream of the Community and Employer Partnerships program, which funds projects that increase employability levels and share labour market information.
Community and Employer Partnerships are featured in B.C.’s Skills for Jobs Blueprint and provides support to people who are struggling to gain a foothold in the job market. It also helps build stronger partnerships with industry and labour to connect British Columbians with classroom instruction and on-the-job training, while making it easier for employers to hire the skilled workers they need - when and where they need them.
To date, more than 1,200 job seekers have benefited from work experience and more than 240 projects have been funded throughout the province.