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Fred Beardy
Faculty:Social work
completed: Extended Education (Certificate in Counselling Skills)
Diploma in Community Wellness
Pursuing: Bachelor of Social work
“Young people are influenced by what they see around them. It’s important that they see successful Aboriginal professionals doing positive things for the community,” says Fred, who is currently working for the Behavioral Health Foundation Inc., where he is employed as a full time night supervisor. He’s directly responsible for the care and supervision of the residents and the facility during overnight shifts.
“The Behavioral Health Foundation Inc. offers holistic addictions treatment and provides long term residential programming for men, women, teens and families with addiction problems. We try to help everyone there reintegrate themselves back into society with the skills required to lead productive lives,” explains Fred.
Fred was also employed as a work experience coordinator for the Fresh Start program, where he helped young Aboriginal adults access programs and information to further their education and broaden their employment options.
“Some of the students who had completed their high school equivalency through Fresh Start were inspired to continue learning,” says Fred. “So I did the research to help them explore their educational opportunities. In the process, I ended up inspiring myself to continue my own education at the University of Manitoba.”
Fred completed his own GED at 26 years old, after having worked sporadically at various manual labour jobs since quitting school at 16.
“I know what it’s like to grow up in poverty and on the streets,” says Fred, who has also counselled young people dealing with violence and addiction. “They relate to me because they know I’ve walked that path. I want to inspire others to take a better one.”
“I’ve finished the first year of my bachelor degree and I may even continue on and get my Masters in Social Work,” says Fred.
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