2011 RDO Program in Partnership with RBC
The 2011 Rural Development Officer (RDO) Program in partnership with RBC was a collaborative initiative that brought FRL together with rural non-profit and voluntary organizations and unemployed individuals.
Eligible individuals were placed in work placements with rural non-profit, charitable and community-based organizations (Community Partners). This allowed Community Partners to build their human and resource capacity so they can achieve their mission.
At the same time, the program created meaningful work experiences for Program Participants who were able to:
- Gain current work experience to add to their resumes;
- Maintain or enhance their current job skills;
- Participate in on-line professional development opportunities relevant to securing employment in the nonprofit sector;
- Develop professional and business networks within their host organization, geographic community and beyond.
Through involvement in a hands-on work placement in a non-profit, participation in FRL's Learning Program, networking activities and ongoing support, individuals developed additional skills and knowledge that upgraded their resumes and connected them to their communities. All of these activities led to increased access to opportunities and successful employment for the majority of the RDOs.
For the Community Partners an “extra pair of hands” instantly boosted their Human Resource capacity. Through the Learning Program staff and/or volunteers within the organization, as well as RDOs, gained new knowledge in core areas. Cultivating this type of culture of learning and leadership ultimately spills over to others within the organization and community, leading to long-term sustainability.
