Funding challenges results in Skills Centre winding down operations
By Contributor
The Skills Centre has been a cornerstone of workforce development and poverty reduction in
Trail since 1997. For nearly three decades, the organization has supported job seekers and equity-denied
groups, including youth, women, newcomers, and individuals facing barriers to employment, through
innovative training, education, and community programs.
Over time, the Skills Centre evolved from delivering employment services to leading impactful initiatives
in poverty reduction, skills training, and community development. Notable efforts include regional
poverty reduction strategies, supports for women’s economic security, and accessible training programs
for diverse populations. The organization has also contributed to downtown revitalization through the
creation of an inclusive, accessible community facility.
Current Situation
The Skills Centre has historically relied on public sector funding to deliver workforce development and
community programs. However, recent reductions and shifts in government funding priorities have
created significant financial challenges for the organization, resulting in reduced programming and staff
capacity.
“Despite several months of efforts to stabilize operations, including exploring new revenue
sources and partnerships, the organization has determined that it is not financially sustainable under
current conditions. We are in the process of evaluating the sale of our building at 1060 Eldorado Street
and planning for an orderly wind-down of operations as early as this fall,” says Emily Gora, Interim
Executive Director of the Skills Centre.
“Before arriving at these difficult decisions, the organization undertook several months of efforts to
address its challenges,” adds Rhys Andrews, chair of the Skills Centre board of directors. “These actions
included implementing cost-saving measures, completing a feasibility study to evaluate organizational
options, engaging with community partners, government representatives, and sector organizations,
exploring alternative funding sources and partnership opportunities, working to increase revenue
through facility use, and continuously monitoring sector trends and government priorities.”
Commitment to Community
The Skills Centre is committed to ensuring an orderly transition by completing current programs where
possible or transferring them to other service providers to minimize disruption to clients and the
community. Updates will be shared via the Skills Centre website, local media outlets, and official social
media channels, as decisions are finalized. The Skills Centre remains committed to supporting clients
and partners through this transition and closure of operations. “This has been a very challenging time
for the society and we are grateful for the support of funders, partners, staff, and the community for
nearly 30 years of shared impact and collaboration,” Andrews says.
