This toolkit is designed for shelters, housing providers, youth-serving agencies and other organizations concerned about homeless and at-risk youth in Canada. It is outlines some ideas for providing a youth employment project for at-risk youth and is designed to create a model that is flexible and adaptable. The case studies and resource materials are based on the Train for Trades program at Choices for Youth in St. John’s, Newfoundland.

Groups are encouraged to consider this model as a promising practice but to modify it where necessary to create their own program that meets the unique context of their community. Whether groups are interested in adapting one part or the entire model the toolkit provides support and resources to help develop the program, establish staffing roles, understand funding expectations and to create the policies, procedures and rules needed to get it up and running as quickly and smoothly as possible.