Together we are building a stronger future
Canada is facing a severe shortage of skilled tradespeople, which has a direct impact on the affordable housing crisis.
By the end of the decade, nearly 700,000 tradespeople will retire, leading to a slowdown in construction and increased costs. At the same time, many young people, particularly from marginalized communities, are struggling to enter the job market.
Our Youth Initiative offers a solution. It provides young people with practical skills while giving them ways to contribute to their communities. By investing in this next generation of talent, we can reshape the future and address Canada's housing challenges head-on.
How it works: youth advocacy and volunteering
Our Youth Initiative provides hands-on training to young people aged 12 to 30 in construction, retail, and skilled trades. The training, led by local Habitat organizations, is offered free of charge and tailored to meet the specific needs of the community.
The limited access to career and training opportunities for many of the young people who participate in the program places them at risk. Each young person who participates receives mentoring, career support, and the opportunity to secure a paid position upon completion of the program.
By prioritizing hands-on learning and community engagement, the Youth Initiative contributes at the individual, professional, and community levels through:
- Skills development. We inspire young people to consider a career in a skilled trade to fill the shortage of skilled workers in the field and to acquire fundamental skills.
- Community Strengthening. Empowering youth empowers communities. The program encourages participating youth to develop life skills and community spirit.
- Strengthening Advocacy. Through this program, young people become passionate advocates for affordable and sustainable housing.
“Working with Habitat gave me the opportunity to participate in the construction process of five townhouses. I will be attending college to further my knowledge of the skilled trades. I hope to one day build exceptional homes and possibly contribute to the work of Habitat for Humanity again.”
– Grade 12 student participating in the Ontario Youth Internship Program
Join us in building a future where skilled tradespeople are available and at-risk youth thrive. We are seeking partners to help us reach 1,400 youth by 2028, including more Indigenous youth.
Contact us at partnerships@habitat.ca to explore possibilities.
A follow-up survey of members of the youth initiative shows that their participation in the program has advanced their careers and the pursuit of a future in the skilled trades:
- 81% attribute their career advancement to the program's impact
- 59% are looking for a job or to continue their studies in a skilled trade
- 43% got a new job, promotion or raise
- 24% now work in a skilled trade
Our national partner, Scotiabank, played an important role in supporting the initiative for all youth. Find out how the program aligns perfectly with its objectives.