Bruce Power's suppliers are supporting Saugeen Ojibway Nation youth programs to the tune of $75,000.
Bruce Power’s Supplier Sponsorship Program is providing $50,000 to the SON Youth Leaders Training Program, and $25,000 to the Bear’s Lair TV Youth Dream Camps.
The Youth Leaders in Training program helps those aged 14-25 develop leadership skills such as self-confidence, effective communication, creative planning, and how to facilitate workshops and events. The Bear’s Lair camps provide those aged 12-18 with opportunities to explore small business and entrepreneurship.
“The education and mentorship this program provides are crucial to the development of our future leaders of Saugeen First Nation and the Chippewas of Nawash Unceded First Nation, and we’re thankful to our supplier partners for their donation,” said Marsha Roote, Chair of the Indigenous Relations Supplier Network. “The program includes interactions with community teachers and knowledge keepers, and it gives participants hands-on leadership opportunities.”
Conrad Ritchie, Chief of Saugeen First Nation, said the program provides a chance for young people to hone their skills and further their community involvement.
“The program serves the youth in our community well as a stepping stone toward their future education and career opportunities,” said Chief Ritchie. “The member companies of the nuclear supply chain are truly investing in the youth of our community.”
Veronica Smith, Chief of the Chippewas of Nawash Unceded First Nation, said the program continues to flourish with the support of Bruce Power and its supplier partners.
“This leadership program has been offered for a number of years and we’re excited to see it continue and thrive,” Chief Smith said. “Most importantly, we’re excited to watch the growth of the participants from our communities and follow their journeys with pride.”
The Bruce Power Supplier Sponsorship Program aligns the company’s vendor partners with local, provincial, and national non-profit organizations that focus on Indigenous youth, health and wellness organizations, Canadian veterans and local Legions, food banks, and hospital foundations. Forty suppliers supported the program in 2022, donating $620,000 to these initiatives.
