In a bid to tackle barriers to learning, the Rideau Hall Foundation (RHF) is thrilled to announce that 32 youth-serving organizations are set to benefit from the Catapult Canada program, receiving support for innovative programming. The initiative aims to advance learning opportunities particularly for youth not in education, employment, or training (NEET), as well as those from vulnerable groups such as newcomers to Canada, refugees, and individuals fleeing trauma.

Recent statistics highlight the urgency of such initiatives. According to the 2021 Census, there’s a notable gap in educational attainment among various demographics. Indigenous people aged 25 to 64 exhibit a completion rate of just under half (49.2%) for postsecondary qualifications. Moreover, a significant disparity persists between genders, with nearly 40% of Canadian-born women aged 25 to 34 holding a bachelor’s degree or higher, compared to slightly over 25% of Canadian-born men.

Teresa Marques, President and CEO of the RHF, emphasized the importance of addressing systemic gaps in secondary completion and access to post-secondary education. She stated, “Too many young people in Canada continue to feel disconnected and excluded during their transition from education to employment. We believe the answers live at the community level.”

The funding partnership with the Azrieli Foundation and the Government of Canada’s Goal Getters program has been instrumental in ensuring the impact and scale of Catapult Canada. Marques highlighted that the initiative is expected to benefit close to 30,000 young people, providing them with the opportunity to pursue their learning and career goals.

Over the past three years, Catapult Canada has evolved into a dynamic community offering not only financial support but also mentorship, capacity building, and evaluation opportunities. The newly funded NGOs will have the chance to collaborate, share ideas, and learn from each other’s successes.

Each of the supported programs adopts an innovative approach to enhancing equity of learning access. Initiatives range from providing experiential learning opportunities and one-to-one academic support to projects focusing on skills development and practical work experience.

Melissa Allen, Executive Director of League of Innovators, expressed gratitude for the support received. She noted, “Receiving the prestigious grant from Rideau Hall Foundation’s Catapult Canada program will enable us to significantly amplify our impact, helping us empower 500 youth from underserved communities across Canada.”

Catapult Canada, a national initiative established by the RHF, aims to increase equity of learning access for youth. It channels resources to community programs, aiding in building know-how, capacity, funding, evaluation frameworks, partnerships, and infrastructure.

The Rideau Hall Foundation (RHF) is a registered national charity committed to celebrating the best of Canada while striving to improve lives and foster conditions for more Canadians to succeed and thrive.

Learn more at www.rhf-frh.ca and www.catapultcanada.ca.