Employment Services
Youth Job Connection
Connecting to work, others and myself
The Youth Job Connection employment program helps people like Marai prepare for and find work
COVID-19 has been terrible for employment. In a recent survey of unemployed people:
To help young people find work during the during COVID-19, the Youth Job Connection employment program has provided virtual mentorship and training, and up to six months paid work experience. The program also offers financial support for transportation, work clothing, equipment and supplies critical aid when trying to cope without income.
Marai turned to the Youth Job Connection in March 2020 after losing her full-time job due to COVID-19 cutbacks. After completing the program, she was hired at a warehouse distribution centre, and now as a full-time Traffic Controller at a security company. The stability from work helped her find a place to live that she proudly calls home.
But for Marai, getting a job was only one benefit of the program.
“I didn’t realize it when I started, but Youth Job Connection helped me stand on both feet. But not just for finding work. Making friends and networking isn’t easy when you are too busy paying off debt and taking care of your family. Meeting people my age group with different backgrounds made me humble and reconnect with myself. Thanks to The Neighbourhood Group for this opportunity and hearing me.”
80% of participants in the Youth Job Connection found work or went on to further their education and training
Opportunity Knocks
Job satisfaction isn’t a myth
Billy found their career through the Opportunity Knocks employment program
“I was working as a cook to put myself through university. After I graduated with a design degree, I felt lost in a freelance job market that is infamous for exploiting emerging artists and designers. So I kept working as a line cook and didn’t have time or energy to do anything else. Luckily I joined Opportunity Knocks.”
Opportunity Knocks helps young people who need assistance overcoming barriers to find work or further their careers. The program provides a personal career assessment, training in leadership development, conflict resolution and first aid, Customer Service Excellence certification, and a twelve-week job placement. For Billy, getting back on track started with the assessment.
“The program allowed me to take stock of what I wanted to do with my life, and helped me explore career options where I could use my skills and passion for art and social change, all while getting paid. I was able to get my foot in the door at a non-profit organization during the work placement, gain experience and build my resume.
“After working short contracts with different organizations, I now have a full-time permanent position at MABELLEarts as an administrative and communications lead, and help facilitate creative workshops for seniors. I’m finally experiencing the elusive thing known as “job satisfaction” and feel like I’m where I’m supposed to be.”
96% of at-risk youth in Opportunity Knocks completed the training and job placements to further their employment goals
