Youth attraction & retention in Northeastern Ontario: A regional strategy

Abstract

Youth outmigration in Northeastern Ontario is not a new phenomenon.  The trend can be traced back to the middle of the 20th century.  The rates, however, have been serious cause for concern since the early 1990s.  The main causes are linked to education and employment.  Several indicators suggest that the region is poised to attract and retain its youth, such new mineral discoveries, an increased demand on health care services and impending exit of baby-boomers from the workforce.  The author provides an overview of relevant research, an in depth statistical overview, proven attraction and retention strategies and a SWOT analysis to highlight the need for a regional youth attraction and retention strategy.  The author suggests that the strategy must be all encompassing and adopted by all communities in the region.