Success Stories
For Information on the Paul Cornish Award
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Samir
Struggling to find direction, Samir was a Beat Builders participant who became a part of the Fernie Works crew. At work he learned not only about landscaping, but life skills that prepared him for his future. With the support of his team and mentors, Samir is confident the man he’s becoming and is ready to start his professional career.
Kamau
Having just moved to Canada from Kenya, Kamau was staying at a shelter when he discovered Fernie. Participating in Fernie Works and moving into Transition House, he discovered his passion for cooking. With Fernie’s help he’s taken courses, secured employment, and is even supporting the Fernie Works crew as he begins a fruitful career in the culinary arts.
Jelani
Struggling with justice involvement, Jelani was refered to Fernie by his probation officer because of his love for music. At Beat Builders he found a community of youth he could connect with and a support system of professionals ready to help him with his personal and artistic development. Invigorated with newfound inspiration, Jelani is learning all that he can in a safe space where he can express himself and process his emotions through music.
Kareem
Kareem was caught in the cycle of recidivism from his early teens. Finding Fernie and moving into Transition House allowed him to focus on developing parts of his life he couldn’t focus on before, like finding a job and building a stable routine. Now, Kareem is invogorated with newfound confidence and has transformed his life.
Fehim
Before moving into Fernie’s Transition House and starting with Fernie Works, Fehim had a good work ethic but lacked the skills and commitment to change his future. After multiple run-ins with the law, Fehim made the most out of his second chance.
It is easier to build strong youth than to repair broken men.
Join us and be a part of building strong youth in your community.

Paul Cornish Award
This award is for youth aged 18-25 living in the Greater Toronto Area who have overcome an experience related to the Youth Criminal Justice system. Eligible young adults have usually experienced a period of residential care or custody. The award is intended to assist young adults who were receiving services prior to their 18th birthday and would like some financial support to assist them in meeting their current circumstances as young adults.