3.12 Achievement Ceremonies

Each site had their own Achievement Ceremonies close to the end of their programs. The Achievement Ceremonies were different at each site, but all were designed and carried out mostly by the clients and the Project Co–ordinator. For many clients this was the first time they had been part of an Achievement Ceremony and there were many graduation cards and gifts from family and friends. This event was a public recognition of the hard work and commitment of the clients and provided an opportunity for members of the CLN and other community members could applaud their efforts. It was an emotional and climatic event for many of the clients, their families and the CLNs. The Achievement Ceremonies were almost all covered by the local media as well – providing additional promotion to the program.

3.13 Employment

Employment of the clients at the end of the projects is the goal of each of them. Each client, when asked why they joined Bridging the Gap I the first place, responded "to get the job".

Fortunately, most of the clients did get employment at the end of their projects. This was a result of many factors, including successful training, hard–working participants, supportive CLNs, funding partners providing Targeted Wage Subsidies and committee and relentless Project Co–ordinators.

Unfortunately, some of the employment partners were not ready to employ people at the end of the projects. In these cases, the clients found either part–time work with them or they found work in other sectors. Some of them are considering developing their own businesses.