We’re excited to share that Brunswick Credit Union received a $25,000 Empowering Your Community Grant from Concentra and Equitable Bank.

The Elephant Thoughts’ Workforce Development Program is a transformative, Indigenous-focused initiative helping youth (ages 16–24), including youth from Tobique First Nation, overcome systemic barriers to employment, education, and leadership. The program includes 12-week immersive training in either Sustainable Building & Renewable Energy and Culinary Arts & Regenerative Agriculture. It also includes instruction by Red Seal professionals in trades like carpentry, HVAC, plumbing, and solar energy. Comprehensive support for participants includes housing, transportation, nutrition, dental care, daycare, and clothing as well as financial empowerment through banking literacy workshops and one-on-one mentoring with credit union professionals from Brunswick Credit Union. Community and economic impact includes strengthened local economies through skilled workforce development, increase in employer engagement and business capacity and fostering long-term community resilience and Indigenous leadership. 

The grant will fund a dedicated carpentry workshop at the Pathsaala Training Campus in Perth-Andover, NB, unlocking the full potential of the program’s Sustainable Building & Renewable Energy stream. This facility will: 

• Deliver hands-on, sector-specific training in green construction and energy 
• Expand program capacity and deepen community impact 
• Enhance youth readiness for employment and leadership roles 

This initiative directly supports Brunswick Credit Union’s ESG priorities, Truth and Reconciliation goals, and commitment to inclusive, community-driven economic growth. 

"This grant allows us to deepen our commitment to building stronger, more sustainable communities. Our partnership with Elephant Thoughts reflects that commitment by empowering youth with skills, confidence, and opportunities that will strengthen our local economy and society for years to come."