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Making a positive difference in students’ lives

Too many young people leave high school without a clear understanding of the possibilities that exist for their future.

The Business and Education Partnership is an award-winning charity that helps young people better understand and prepare for the world of work, so that they can build their own paths to successful careers.

History & Mission

In the early 2000s, leaders from our local business and education communities shared an idea. Waterloo Region has one of the most highly skilled workforces in the world: Why not use that resource to help our kids better understand and prepare for the changing world of work?

Those leaders created the Business & Education Partnership of Waterloo Region. Since 2002, we have connected over 100,000 students to career exploration, skill development and networking opportunities with over 4,000 industry professionals.

While our programs have evolved to meet changing needs, our goals are that youth in Waterloo Region:

  • Feel informed about career and employment options and how they can prepare
  • Can see a positive future for themselves in our workforce
  • Feel valued and supported by our community

In achieving these goals, the BEP provides meaningful opportunities for employers to develop their future workforce, engage their current employees in volunteerism, and demonstrate themselves as an employer of choice.

Our work is good for students, good for business, and good for Waterloo Region. We invite you to join us!

Meet our team

Our team is passionate about informing and inspiring the career development of young people.

Scott Verhoeve

Executive Director

“As a student and student teacher, I met many talented young people who were feeling lost and frustrated about their choices for school and work. As part of the BEP, I’m excited to connect youth to experiences that help them better understand their talents and opportunities!”

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Julie Dreisinger

Program Coordinator

“As a parent of 2 adult children myself, I have been a first-hand witness to the challenges and uncertainty in deciphering the best way to to help youth with these major decisions around schooling and their career. The resources and experiential opportunities we are able to provide at the BEP ignite my passion; I know I am assisting youth in making wiser and more informed career choices.”

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James Howe

Program and Communications Manager

"As a father of two youth who are beginning their own career exploration, I am excited to use my skills as a nonprofit communications professional to help all Waterloo Region youth explore their career options."

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Board of Directors

We are leaders from our local business and education communities, working together to build a stronger Waterloo Region.

2021 - 2022 Supporters

We thank our supporters for their contribution to making every day Career Day for youth across Waterloo Region.

$50,000 +

$25,000 +

$10,000 +

$5,000 +

$2,500 +

Donors

  • Blake & Taylor Stevens, David Tubbs, Doug Sparkes, Graham Parkinson
  • Lisa Milsom, Richard Olson, and Sharon Gilroy-Dreher

Join Us

Join us in our mission of educating and inspiring the youth of Waterloo Region.

Become a volunteerDonateView partnership package