Building Up

Financial literacy is about more than understanding numbers. It is about building the confidence to make informed decisions and plan for the future.

As part of our 8-week pre-apprenticeship program, trainees participate in four Financial Wellness workshops covering topics such as budgeting, saving, credit, registered accounts, investing basics, and financial decision-making.

In one of their final sessions, trainees work through a case study focused on an apprentice facing a financial challenge. Working in teams, they assess the situation, apply what they have learned, and develop practical solutions to present to the class.

This exercise helps strengthen critical thinking, communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills while showing trainees how financial literacy can support their success both on and off the job site.

We are incredibly proud of the thoughtful discussions, practical solutions, and growth demonstrated by this cohort. Watching trainees apply their knowledge with confidence is a powerful reminder of the impact that financial education can have when it is practical, relatable, and connected to real-life experiences.

💰🔨 Building stronger financial futures, one lesson at a time.

At the end of 2024, Esron was unemployed and struggling to break into the skilled trades. Like so many people facing barriers to employment, he knew where he wanted to go, but not how to get there.

“Months later I joined Building Up and my trajectory changed. For the first time I was on a journey surrounded by people dedicated to my success. This filled me with the confidence that I could tackle what was ahead of me.”

Over the past year, Esron committed himself to building a new future. With support through interview preparation, financial assistance, counseling, and connections to opportunities in the trades, he was able to take the next step toward a meaningful career.

Today, Esron is proudly working as a millwright and thriving in a career that challenges him, inspires him, and continues to open new doors for his future.

“Building Up not only worked with other organizations to create this opportunity but also helped with interview prep, financial support and counseling all along the way. Today I'm happy to say I am working as a millwright and loving it.”

Stories like Esron’s are a reminder of what becomes possible when people are given the support, opportunity, and community they deserve 💙

We are honoured to share that we have been recognized as a Finalist at the 2026 Building Diversity Awards by the Toronto Community Benefits Network 🎉

This recognition reflects our ongoing commitment to embedding Diversity, Equity and Inclusion into every part of our work and decision making. We are incredibly proud of our team, partners and community members who help bring this mission to life every day.

This certificate represents more than an acknowledgement. It reflects our shared belief that inclusive, community driven work creates stronger opportunities for everyone.

Thank you to the Toronto Community Benefits Network for this recognition and congratulations to all the other inspiring finalists who are helping move this work forward 💙

We’ve been mentoring EnviroCentre in Ottawa as they bring the Building Up model to life through their new social enterprise EC Build.

They’re training newcomers in retrofit and building science skills to help tackle both the climate crisis and the shortage of skilled trades workers. Early progress is already being highlighted in international coverage, showing real momentum in the work.

Proud to see this model being replicated and making impact where it’s needed most. 🏠 ⚒️ 🌎