Stephen Owen, Secretary of State (Western Economic Diversification) (Indian Affairs and Northern Development) is pleased to announce that Parkland Community Futures Development Corporation is the recipient of the 4th annual Minister's Award for Excellence and Innovation. Their initiative, the Experienced Worker Pilot Project, is providing assistance to experienced workers in the agricultural sector find employment and remain in rural Manitoba.

"The Minister's Award for Excellence and Innovation celebrates the very best of the Community Futures initiative - people coming together to play an active role in the future of their communities," said Secretary of State Owen. "The goal of keeping older, more experienced workers in their communities with meaningful employment is being met. Western Economic Diversification Canada is very pleased to present this award to the volunteers, board members and staff of this organization."

The award is sponsored by Western Economic Diversification Canada (WD) and recognizes an outstanding economic development project undertaken by one of Manitoba's 16 CFDCs.

"Community Futures Development Corporations support the local economic development process in their regions," said Robert Annis, Chair, Community Futures Partners of Manitoba. "The board and staff of Parkland understood that the current labour market requirements were posing numerous challenges to the rural community. By identifying employment opportunities and training, Parkland is not only helping individuals' careers but they are also helping the rural community retain their skilled workforce. I'm very pleased that their efforts have been recognized with this award."

The Experienced Worker Pilot Project was officially launched in November 2002 with the objective of helping participants remain connected to their farm and community. By providing assistance in a number of areas, such as counseling, employment training, assistance with farm transition, and small business development, Parkland is helping older workers overcome some of the unique challenges they face as they strive to participate fully in today's rural economy.

Parkland CFDC's project was one of four nominations for this year's award. The other submissions included the Northwest Manitoba Regional Tourism Strategy submitted by Northwest CFDC; Manitoba's First Geothermal Subdivision submitted by Wheat Belt CFDC; and Mrs. Lucci's Second Hand Store and Community Resource Centre submitted by Winnipeg River Brokenhead CFDC.

Supported by WD, the Community Futures Initiative strengthens rural economies by providing small-business loans and assisting entrepreneurs through counseling and training. Each Community Futures Development Corporation delivers a variety of services ranging from local strategic economic planning, technical and advisory services to businesses, loans to small and medium-sized businesses, self-employment assistance programs, and services targeted to youth and entrepreneurs with disabilities.

Community Futures Partners of Manitoba Inc. (CFPM) is an association representing the 16 Community Futures Development Corporations (CFDCs) established throughout rural and northern Manitoba.

For additional information, contact:

Jacquie Sippola
Communications Officer
Western Economic Diversification Canada
Winnipeg, Manitoba
(204) 983-0280

Christine Landry
Marketing and Communications Coordinator
Community Futures Partners of Manitoba
Winnipeg, MB
(204) 943-2905
http://www.cfpm.mb.ca/