This project began based on needs expressed by locals in Temiskaming Shores, Ontario, a rural city of about 10,000 people, approximately 600 km north of Toronto.

Needs included:

• Increase in recruitment and retention, so employees are willing to come or stay long-term
• Increase local employers’ ability and willingness to hire newcomers or from local Indigenous groups
• Create resources or support to address these needs effectively and systemically

Local Employee Resource Group gathering over lunch, March 2023

Through local interviews, focus groups, and local advisors, the project partners designed two initiatives to address local needs:

1. An employee resource group(ERG) – a solution used among multinational organizations that was adapted based on the research findings, needs, and dynamics of the local community. The local ERG meets monthly and supports employees and employers in increasing religious literacy over time, while building community.
2. “Faith and Belief Friendly” Certification Training – to support employers

Local speakers at the Employee Resource Group gathering, March 2023

“This training can provide ways of knowing that some might not always feel comfortable with, or are shy to share but it helps us engage and involve staff by letting them know that they are welcome to bring their whole self to work.” – HR personnel at the Temiskaming Lodge, Ontario

First “Faith and Belief Friendly Certified” cohort, June 2023, Temiskaming Shores, Ontario

More testimonials, videos, and details available on a local partner website here: https://www.tsacc.ca/ierg.html