ST. JOHN'S, NL, July 30, 2013 /CNW/ - Today, The Co-operators announced a grant of $19,492 to the Community Sector Council (CSC) of Newfoundland and Labrador. The funding will support the new Community Skills Cluster project, which helps people in rural communities gain self-reliance by matching their individual needs with helpful community resources. The funding comes from The Co-operators Community Economic Development Fund.

The Community Sector Council of Newfoundland and Labrador has supported and strengthened the volunteer and non-profit sector for more than 30 years. It provides opportunities for people to be involved and engaged in their rural communities, contributing to a more inclusive society supportive of individuals, families and communities. The funding will be used to help disadvantaged participants access educational opportunities, government and non-government support, spaces for enterprise development, individual skill demonstration and joint entrepreneurial initiatives.

"Funding from Co-operators will enable the Community Sector Council Newfoundland and Labrador (CSC) to identify a group of individuals in a rural setting and connect them to networking and learning opportunities that encourage community economic development," said Penelope Rowe, CEO, Community Sector Council of Newfoundland and Labrador. "These efforts will be an integral part of a larger innovative pilot initiative, Alliances for Community Engagement (ACE), which is aimed at engaging individuals, community groups and other sectors in new and innovative ways to make change in local settings. The individuals involved through the Cooperators grant will be assisted to identify their personal skill sets and potential economic directions."

The Co-operators Community Economic Development Fund was established in 1995 to support programs and organizations that help disadvantaged people gain skills and move toward self-reliance. The fund is part of The Co-operators Foundation which supports social enterprises, co-operatives, charitable organizations, and non-profits throughout Canada.

About The Co-operators:
The Co-operators Group Limited is a Canadian-owned co-operative with more than $34 billion in assets under administration. Through its group of companies it offers home, auto, life, group, travel, commercial and farm insurance, as well as investment products. The Co-operators is well known for its community involvement and its commitment to sustainability. The Co-operators is listed among the 50 Best Employers in Canada by Aon Hewitt; Corporate Knights' Best 50 Corporate Citizens in Canada; and the Top 50 Socially Responsible Corporations in Canada by Sustainalytics and Maclean's magazine. For more information visit www.cooperators.ca.

SOURCE: The Co-operators