Youth

HEDB Inc recognizes the importance of youth involvement in community economic development.  The focus should be to ensure youth have an opportunity to participate in the decisions influencing economic development in Zone 8.

Out-migration of our youth is a major concern.  Census data from Stats Canada reveal that the majority of people leaving Newfoundland and Labrador are between the ages of 15 and 24 and have completed post secondary education.  Since 1996, Zone 8 has seen a decrease of approximately 23% of youth between the ages of 15 and 29.  HEDB Inc recognizes that if the region is to experience economic growth, there must be opportunities found to enable youth the option of building their futures within the province and has developed the “Youth Retention and Repatriation Initiative” as part of its Youth Strategy component.  Business Wings Program - Young business people have been given the opportunity to take part in Business Builder sessions, workshops and important business / marketing programs through the Business Wings Program.

In addition, HEDB has sponsored an opportunities event that highlighted post secondary institutes, employers, financial institutions, government departments and volunteer organizations. These organizations have come together to set-up in one venue, in a central location of the region, to promote the awareness of opportunities in careers, entrepreneurship and employment available in Zone 8.
HEDB also brings together 32 youth service providers and youth from throughout Zone 8 shares a wealth of invaluable information regarding youth challenges and opportunities. Also serving as a committee for input on all youth initiatives, the group provides invaluable support, insight and partnerships working toward youth retention and repatriation in Zone 8.

While the Opportunity Event is a great venue for youth to get information, HEDB believes that the information needs to travel to the rural communities.  This unit would have a particular focus on the more rural and isolated communities, providing information and career support/development services on-site allowing direct access to computers, phone, career and business development information and seminars, as well as the contact information of representatives in all youth serving organizations.