Trails to Literacy: PHASES
Having first-hand experience with the internal workings of a project promotes a sense of connection and active membership within the community. While participants are involved in a Trails project, they have the chance to build networking opportunities that may help gain future employment.
Gaining real-life work experience reinforces any theory or traditional classroom style learning by actively demonstrating the practical application of a subject in an everyday type of work environment. It can also provide references for future job applications.
Pride in accomplishment grows with the degree of involvement. The more involved participants become, the more they tend to take on the ownership of a project. The successful completion of their undertaking creates fertile ground for the growth and blossoming of self-esteem.
Each community benefits in a different way, as each project is geared to the unique circumstances and resources of the area.
Some areas might enjoy increased tourism; a better understanding of culture or history may be built elsewhere; environmental improvements may be provided to some areas; others could profit from the promotion of health.
The wide variety of skills developed, through the ‘participatory’ nature of this project, leads to a better-prepared workforce. This results in a benefit to the whole community.