Family Services and Labour

What is Power Up?

Power Up is a 15 hour introductory computer course for women only.  The course is intended to promote the importance of technology for women in today’s society/marketplace, to build confidence, and to provide training in a non-threatening environment.  Power Up introduces participants to word processing, sending and receiving e-mail, and using the internet.  The course is offered at no charge to participants. 

How can agencies apply to offer the course?

Each year, Manitoba Status of Women distributes funding applications to non-profit organizations such as adult learning centres, adult literacy programs and continuing education agencies.  Applications can also be requested by contacting Manitoba Status of Women. Annually, applications are due by May 15th.

What factors are considered in selecting agencies to offer Power Up?

Applications are selected based on factors such as:  geographic representation; capacity to offer the course; demand within the community; history of offering the program; and ability to target populations such as senior, immigrant, Aboriginal, rural and/or northern women.  Manitoba Status of Women prefers to fund providers that are able to accommodate at least eight participants, but will consider agencies with smaller facilities on an exception basis.  Generally, funding is only provided to non-profit organizations.

What is provided to agencies that are selected to offer Power Up?

Manitoba Status of Women provides funding and program materials to agencies offering the Power Up program.  Materials supplied include training manuals, certificates of completion and evaluation forms for each student; as well, the instructor receives a copy of the training manual, class exercises, class attendance list template and instructor evaluation form. 
                                                                                                                     
The Power Up Training Guide is intended to be used as a curriculum outline.  Instructors are encouraged to adapt the program to the needs of their students.  The guide has recently been updated to reflect Windows 7 and Office 2010.  A limited supply of Windows XP/Office 2003 manuals is also available.

How can I get more information?

If your agency is interested in offering Power Up, and would like more information or a funding application, contact Manitoba Status of Women at:

Power Up
Manitoba Status of Women
409-401 York Avenue
Winnipeg MB   R3C 0P8

Phone: (204) 945-6281
Toll-free: 1-800-263-0234
Fax: (204) 945-6511
E-mail: msw@gov.mb.ca