A foray into social enterpriseA new social enterprise popped up in the West Broadway area recently. forRaY, Second Chance Shoppe was opened by Resource Assistance for Youth (RaY) to provide a supported retail training program for marginalized youth as well as offer affordable, high-quality household goods for the neighbourhood. What is social enterprise? According to Social Enterprise Canada: “In Canada we see a prevalence for defining social enterprise as a business operated by a non-profit entity. As a business they have to have a product or service they sell to customers, they also have to have a defined social, cultural or environmental value. In the Canadian legal context, mission “related” businesses are allowed for non-profits and charities.” – See more here.* According to Kelly Holmes, Executive Director at RaY, the Shoppe is designed to give youth with little education or workplace skills a chance at gaining these skills with a goal land a permanent job. RaY has been helping youth for over 20 years, and this is a further extension of other employment initiatives that give their clients the chance to become independent. If you’re looking to clean out your cupboards and get rid of some good-quality used furniture and household goods, give forRaY a call (Kerri @ 204-783-5617 ext 202). They’ll put everything to good use. And if you’re in the market for some great finds at bargain prices, visit them at 195 Young Street at Broadway. RaY also has a long-term goal for the enterprise to become self-sustaining and eventually contribute to the long-term sustainability of the organization. Many organizations are exploring this type of revenue source as governments shelve programs to assist nonprofits. Entire communities often contribute and eventually benefit from supporting these enterprises, which in turn contributes to making the community a stronger and more vibrant place to live. A win-win in anyone’s view! There are many examples of social enterprise in Manitoba, and I encourage you to support them. Habitat for Humanity ReStore, the Festival du Voyageur, Diversity Foods and the St. Norbert Farmer’s Market are but a few examples. I’m certain that you’ve already been a customer, without even knowing you’re contributing to your community! Laura Mikuska *Charities are allowed to operated a Related Business under Canada Revenue Agency Guidelines. · |
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