by Arthur Milnes
Northern News Services

FORT SIMPSON (May 01/98) - Out of work, out of school and a youth? You'd better call Sonny Lenoir.

Once again, the Liidlii Kue First Nation has been chosen to administer the Work Experience program of Ottawa's Youth Service Canada project.

"(It's) a great opportunity for our youth in this community to learn, experience and enjoy new challenges and contribute to our community through positive service projects," said Sonny Lenoir, social programs manager for the Fort Simpson First Nation.

"You could gain the experience to qualify yourself for work within the community."

The program, which was launched four years ago, is designed to develop working opportunities through community service for youth age 16-24; an age group hard hit by unemployment in the 1990s.

Youth Service Canada is designed to give participants maximum learning, personal growth and service experience.

Locally, participants recently finished the first Fort Simpson project with some already now working, Lenoir said.

All told, 12 spaces are available for the one-year program. Lenoir said the participants will work on community beautification, recreation and culturally- appropriate projects.

Deadline for applications is tomorrow with a week of orientation and planning set to get under way May 6.

"There has been a lot of interest so far," Lenoir said.

Application forms can be picked up at the Liidlii Kue First Nation office.