$200K From Meridian Credit Union to Support Elephant Thoughts Job Training Program in Grey-Bruce
Meridian Credit Union is providing $200,000 for a Grey-Bruce job training program delivered by Elephant Thoughts, combining skills training with housing, food, and other supports.
A job training and support program is expanding into Grey and Bruce counties with new funding aimed at helping residents access employment.
Meridian Credit Union has committed $200,000 to support the rollout of its Reframe program locally. It is to be delivered by Elephant Thoughts, a registered Canadian charity based in Hanover and focused on experiential education and skills development.
Founded in 2002, the organization has traditionally worked with schools and communities across Canada to deliver hands-on learning programs — often centered on science, environmental stewardship, and global citizenship.
In recent years, it has expanded into workforce development, offering practical training programs aimed at helping people build employable skills.
Sarah Saso, Meridian VP of ESG and Social Impact, said in a prepared statement, “Meridian is so proud to help strong local programs like Elephant Thoughts go further -- creating real pathways to work, while helping to address Ontario’s skills gaps in the culinary, construction and renewable energy fields.”
According to information released by Meridian, the program will offer hands-on training in areas such as culinary work, construction, and renewable energy. Participants will also receive financial coaching and follow-up support after completing the program.
Reframe was launched in 2024 with a pilot in Barrie and has since expanded to other parts of Ontario. Meridian says it has invested about $1.3 million in the program to date.
The organization reports that most participants move on to employment, self-employment, or further training after completing the program, though independent verification of those outcomes was not included in the announcement.
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