We’re a pretty small team here at Zero Ceiling, with a pretty big goal – to transform the lives of young people who have experienced homelessness. And this summer, with six young people in our Work 2 Live program, we’re busier than ever. So we are thrilled to welcome Krista Scott to our team! Krista joins us for the summer as a Youth Worker, thanks to funding from the Canada Summer Jobs program. We caught up with Krista to find out more about her, and what she’s learned from Zero Ceiling so far.
Hey Krista, welcome to Zero Ceiling, and to Whistler! We know you flew quite a way to join us – can you tell us a bit about your background?
I was born and raised in St. Catharines, Ontario. I did my undergrad at Queen’s University with a dual major of Psychology & Philosophy, and am currently pursuing my Masters degree at Niagara University in Clinical Mental Health Counselling.
I love the outdoors and love working with people. Zero Ceiling has allowed me to combine my passions by working with awesome people, and thriving in adventure-based learning opportunities with the crew.
Meet Krista, our summer Youth Worker
We’re glad you’re enjoying it so far! What appealed to you about working with Zero Ceiling in the first place?
What piqued my interest most was the innovative approach Zero Ceiling takes when combating youth homelessness. Not only do we provide access to employment, stable housing, skills development, and professional support, we also provide friendships, family, and a passion for life through wicked experiences in the Whistler community.
You’re definitely right that Zero Ceiling feels like a family. Do you have any favourite moments now that you’ve been part of that family for a few weeks?
By far, my favourite moment has been getting to know the young people in the Work 2 Live program. These individuals inspire me everyday through their hard-work and determination. Their drive to better themselves each and every day makes coming to work an absolute pleasure.
Also, the Whistler community has been generous enough to donate great opportunities for us to experience as a crew including mountain biking, whitewater rafting, Escape! Whistler, and many others. I know it sounds cheesy but every moment is a great moment with Zero Ceiling.
Sounds like you’ve been having a great time – and we know you’ve been working really hard to. What have you learned so far from your time with the Work 2 Live crew?
Working with the Work 2 Live crew has taught me countless things. One of the main things is the importance of relationships and individuality. I have been so lucky to form bonds with the individuals in the program and it is been an amazing experience getting to see each of their unique strengths and passions. The crew has taught me more in the short time I have been here then I could have ever imagined.
Admiring the views of Black Tusk from the new Peak Suspension Bridge, with the Work 2 Live crew
They are a really inspiring crew, and those relationships are such a key part of what we do here. We’re glad you’ve experienced that so quickly. We know you only have a few months left in Whistler – is there anything in particular you’re looking forward to?
Living in Whistler there is always something to look forward to! Right now I am looking forward to getting back in the bike park and learning how to keep up with the guys. We’ve also been planning some group hikes, which I am super stoked to complete!
Thanks so much for speaking to us Krista. We hope the rest of your time with Zero Ceiling is just as fun, inspiring and adventurous as the first few weeks!
If you’re interested in working with us, Krista will be heading back to school in the Fall, and a Youth Worker position with Zero Ceiling will become available. Keep an eye on our website and social media, or drop us an email to inquire at info@zeroceiling.org.