Hire a student, get a wage subsidy

Fernie’s Giv’er Shirtworks was one of the businesses that benefited last year from the Trust’s Summer Works Program.

If you own a small business in the Basin, you can get financial help to hire a student over the summer by applying for a wage subsidy from Columbia Basin Trust’s Summer Works Program. Application forms are available starting February 21, 2014, at cbt.org/summerworks. Because the program is popular, you’re encouraged to submit your application form as soon as possible.

Fernie’s Giv’er Shirtworks was one of the businesses that benefited from the program last year.

“The Summer Works Program gave my business an opportunity we wouldn’t have been able to take on otherwise,” said owner Erin Summers. “The program administrators are extremely helpful, which makes it simple for businesses to participate. I would recommend the program to any business owner looking to add value to their business. Libby was a great addition to our team.”

Summer Works also helped Giv’er Shirtworks’ summer student, Libby Vanderschuit: "I found working at Giv'er Shirtworks to be very helpful. It is liberating to be in a workplace where you are surrounded by great people who encourage you to progress in your work. I had the freedom to create, which is essential for me. I am very thankful for the experience."

To help businesses offer summer jobs to high school and post-secondary students, the program provides a wage subsidy of up to $8 per hour for entry-level or career related positions. Since 2010, Summer Works has helped create up to 150 student jobs each summer in the Columbia Basin.

“Businesses benefit from the extra staff support and students earn money for school plus get valuable job experience—it’s positive for everyone involved,” said Sabrina Curtis, Director, Sector Initiatives at Columbia Basin Trust.

College of the Rockies administers the Summer Works Program. “Delivering this program for the Trust is an excellent way for us to help students throughout the Basin, plus affect the development of local economies,” said Tracey Whiting, Manager, Continuing Education and Contract Training, College of the Rockies.

For more information about the program, visit cbt.org/summerworks, email [email protected] or call 1.877.489.2687, ext. 3644.

The Trust supports efforts to deliver social, economic and environmental benefits to the residents of the Columbia Basin. To learn more about the Trust’s programs and initiatives, visit cbt.org or call 1.800.505.8998.