Prince George, B.C.- It was supposed to be an annual report to Council , but for many Councillors it was an eye opener. The program is called Street Humanities and it helps those who are on the street make a change in their life. 

 

Councillors listened as they heard about the program which was patterned after a similar project in New York city. Candidates are screened, and those who are   wanting to make a change in their life can   find themselves in a classroom at CNC where they can take a variety of courses.

 

The program is supported by the John Howard Society, AWAC,  and the College of New Caledonia.  Provided at CNC College of New Caledonia, Street Humanities is a 2-semester non-credit liberal arts program set in a safe and supported learning environment with instruction from CNC and UNBC instructors.   Does it work?

 

The answer is yes,  just ask Vern Haley.

 

46 year old Vern Haley is one of the success stories of the program. He is close to achieving his Dogwood, is learning about heavy equipment and for the first time in his life has a career in mind. In a presentation to Prince George City Council, Haley   said he spent 17 years in jail,   had been involved in gangs and crime and drugs. “I finally went to Baldy Hughes to turn my life around, and I cannot believe how life has opened up for me since I decided to clean up my life.”

 

The program is supported with a grant from the City of Prince George and the generous time donated by those who volunteer their time to assist the 24 students in the program.

 

Councillor Frank Everitt thanked those who are behind the program, saying they are the ones who provide the building blocks to make the community better, and offered kudos to Haley for having the courage to step forward and share his story “You put yourself at risk doing that” said Everitt.