Jennie Murphy: A Backstage Pass To The North End

Our first stop of the day was the Canadian CED Network (CCEDNet), where we heard from Marlis Funk, Manitoba Events and Engagement. She spoke about how CCEDNet connects its members with the resources they need to build more sustainable relationships between work and community. While many members are based in Winnipeg, they receive support from communities across Manitoba.

Among CCEDNet’s many programs, SPARK stood out. SPARK is a Winnipeg-based initiative designed to close gaps for community groups focused on social and economic change, providing meaningful support where it is most needed.

We also heard from organizations that are part of Social Enterprises Manitoba. BUILD is an Indigenous social enterprise nonprofit contractor and training program that supports individuals facing employment barriers by meeting them where they are. They provide steady, non-seasonal work, creating stability for parents so they can better support their families. Skoden, a similar organization, matches members to on-demand work based on specific qualifications, focusing on entry-level roles in construction and demolition. Purpose Construction is a nonprofit offering employment to individuals who face challenges in the traditional labour market. Their 10-week program begins with classroom training and transitions to on-site work alongside a licensed carpenter, and they have employed 80 individuals to date. Lastly, we learned about Local Invest Towards Employment (LITE), a charity that creates job experiences for people facing employment barriers. They are well known for their Hamper Program and their annual Wild Blueberry Pancake Breakfast, held on the last Friday of November.

Our next stop was the North End Women’s Centre, where the staff truly go above and beyond to support women in the community. We met with Kris, Associate Executive Director, and Bree, Program Manager of Community Healing and Wellness Support. The centre owns all three of its buildings and offers a wide range of services, including harm reduction supplies, child and family advocacy, free counselling, access to community resources, and so much more. They serve lunch 3 times a week and provide snacks 2 times daily, welcoming up to 100 walk-in visitors each day. Their communal living space offers six beds for individuals for up to two to three years while they receive support toward permanent housing. We also learned about The Up Shoppe, a nonprofit thrift store that allows participants to earn wages that go directly toward past-due bills. 

Our third stop was the Urban Circle Training Centre, where we met Executive Director Haven and Director of Education Nick. The center offers land-based training and six programs in partnership with Red River College and Seven Oaks School Division. While students are responsible for securing funding, staff provide guidance throughout the process. Culture is central to Urban Circle’s programming, with teachings and ceremonies that support students on their spiritual journeys. An on-site daycare removes a major barrier, allowing students to focus on their education and future.

We ended the day at The Dream Factory, a place where families find joy during the most difficult times of their lives. Children are encouraged to make their own choices and simply have fun, with no strings attached. Eligible children must live in Manitoba, be between 0–18 years old, and have a life-threatening illness diagnosed by a doctor. Each dream averages $18,500, and last year 50 dreams were granted—an incredible achievement for an organization operating solely on fundraising and grants, with no core funding.