The mission of Trades Guild is to help marginalized individuals find their vocation, make it their occupation, attain economic independence and become successful contributors to society. This is accomplished by providing trade-related training coupled with life skill development to those who, because of homelessness, jailtime, addiction recovery, lack of finances, lack of formal education or being new to Canada, would otherwise not have the opportunity. The programs provide on-the job training that empower participants with trade skills to help them find meaningful employment that turn into careers in carpentry, cabinet making,  and finishing. It also provides health and safety training, and lifetime mentoring, psychological and counselling support. In keeping with our mission of teaching economic independence, we are proud to compensate the participants of our program. Funding is needed to support ongoing program expenses including operational costs of $300,000,  capital costs such as equipment and vehicles of $350,000, and to create a reserve for equipment repair and maintenance of $150,000.