1.3 Phase I versus Phase II of the Pilot

The original CLN in Zone 15 included representation from the public and private sectors, volunteer organizations, and educational providers in the zone. Research data was compiled in 1997 by the Random North Development Association (RNDA) to determine if this link between education and employment was possible.

After the research was completed, the Bridging the Gap Model was tested in 1998–99 with a resource-based company (Atlantic Marine Products Inc.) in Zone 15 who were expanding their current operations.

Participants were assessed and selected based on their limited academic skills (not having graduated high school) and employment status (unemployed/underemployed). The training component was designed in a flexible manner that met the needs of the selected participants and the workplace skill sets required by the company. Training was on site at the company and included a combination of academic and practical/technical training.

The initial pilot was successful in providing employment, increasing academic and workplace skills, and ensuring that the partnering company had a productive workforce. As of the spring of 2003, seven of the nine original participants are still working with Atlantic Marine Products, and the other two participants are working in another company (having left Atlantic Marine of their own choice).

In addition, the Community Learning Network has stayed in place. It has proved to be a springboard for other ideas and to launch the provincial pilot (Bridging the Gap, Phase II).

1.4 Sponsor

Random North Development Association is the provincial sponsor of Phase II of Bridging the Gap, as well as being the sponsor of two of the individual projects themselves.

The Association was incorporated on June 6th, 1980, and represents the geographic area of Random Island, Smith Sound (from Milton to Burgoynes Cove) and Clarenville/Shoal Harbour. There are 18 communities in the region covered by the association and although not all are member communities, Random North has maintained an active presence throughout the area. It is one of the few development associations remaining active in the province.

In addition to many employment and development initiatives in the area, Random North Development Association was instrumental in bringing literacy issues to the forefront in the region. RNDA sponsored a Literacy Outreach Office for two years to assist individuals with low academic skills find volunteer tutors. RNDA established a resource centre in it's building (in Shoal Harbour) where adults can borrow resource material, video and audio cassettes to assist them with their reading, writing, and math. As well, RNDA has developed a motivational video "Their Personal History" to help motivate people to return to school to complete their high school certificate. This video was sent across the province as well as the rest of Canada. It was very well received by the different groups and organizations.

The Random North Development Association tries to act as a guide and helper to surrounding communities and if need be, their voice in matters that concern them. The staff includes a full time Office Manager.