RICHMOND, BC – Paper Excellence Canada has contributed a $25,000 donation to BC’s Outland Youth Employment Program (OYEP). The donation supports the First Nations program which provides an opportunity for First Nations youth to gain skills and exposure to forest industry opportunities.

“With many of our facilities neighbouring First Nations, we believe in establishing relationships that support First Nations as by working together our community’s prosper, benefitting all of us.” explains Brian Baarda, Paper Excellence Canada CEO.

The Outland Youth Employment Program is a natural resource based community-driven initiative that works towards equity and opportunity for Indigenous youth through education, training and work experience. Participating youth gain work and life skills.

“The Outland Youth Employment Program is a program that inspires youth and provides them with the confidence to take advantage of the opportunities in the natural resource sectors of BC. This program has a proven track record and results. Any company supporting the Outland Youth Program can ensure that they are making a difference in the lives of many Aboriginal youth, in ways no other program can provide,” states Derek Orr, Business Development Manager for Carrier Lumber and former Chief of the McLeod Lake Indian Band.

“A program that offers insight and skills training to First Nations youth within our communities is a direct match with our corporate vision and mandate,” states Baarda. “OYEP offers solutions that many First Nations youth face. To join with industry in supporting OYEP is a natural fit for Paper Excellence Canada.”