BlueSKY DJ Service makes participating in programs “cool”
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George McClure (right) and a youth from PARC at the turntable.
Photo courtesy of Vince Talotta.
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A noticeable trend in the child welfare world is that young
males often don’t access the programs and services at their disposal as much as
their female counterparts. Establishing programs that pique the interest of
young males and make them want to get involved can be challenging, yet BlueSKY
DJ Service has been able to do just that.
Founded and managed by George McClure, a former youth in
care turned youth worker, and David Horvath, a youth in care currently studying
to become a paramedic, and run through the Pape Adolescent Resource Centre
(PARC) in Toronto, BlueSKY DJ Service is a business enterprise that provides DJ
training and employment for males aged 17-24 who are or have previously been in
the child welfare system. The service was born out of George and David’s vision
of finding something “cool” that would motivate young males to get involved in
programs and learn about other services available to them. After approaching
the Children’s Aid Foundation with his idea, our staff put George in contact
with Howard Sandys, a Foundation volunteer and retired businessman who helped
George create a business plan proposal for the Toronto Enterprise Fund. The
strong proposal won start-up funds for the business. Now in its fourth year of
operation, BlueSKY DJ Service receives funds and support from the Children’s
Aid Foundation.
For young men, entry into the business begins with training.
During the training process, they learn how to beat match, mix songs, use
turntables and learn how to set up and use other types of equipment such as
lighting systems, speakers, and fog machines. After graduating from training,
those who have mastered these skills are hired by BlueSKY to provide DJ
services at various events including corporate parties, weddings, and other
private functions. “Unlike other programs for young males, DJ-ing allows them
to play a different role. They aren’t the recipient of a service, this time
they’re providing a service,” said George.
In order to maintain a high level of professionalism, George
requires certain commitments from his employees. They must show up on time,
dress appropriately, and ensure that their customers are receiving a high
quality service. These standards have led to BlueSKY DJ Service and its
employees earning respect and praise from clients while simultaneously teaching
important life skills. “Now that they are providing a service they are gaining
a real sense of dignity and self-worth and they’re also receiving respect from
our adult clients which helps to build self-confidence,” said George.
Apart from establishing pride and responsibility through the
success of hard work and providing an opportunity to participate in the work
force, George and BlueSKY DJ Service also teach some of the simple life lessons
that many take for granted, such as learning how to properly tie a tie or
working as a team. “A lot of learning happens when we go out to events,” said
George. “We travel in a van and that informal space allows for conversations
and discussions that wouldn’t necessarily happen somewhere else.” As a former
youth in care as well as a youth worker, George is easy to approach and often
directs young men to programs and services they may not have been aware of or
considered before such as the Ambassador School program, scholarship
opportunities and furniture banks.
The Children’s Aid Foundation is proud to support BlueSKY DJ
Service. The program helps young men at risk of homelessness, trouble with the
law, or not participating in the work force learn valuable skills and lessons
that give them the confidence to break through the cycle of disadvantage. Visit
www.blueskydjservice.com for more information.
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