Federal Governments Supports Local Youth Project

Youth in Guelph will have more help in overcoming barriers to employment, Lloyd Longfield, Member of Parliament for Guelph, announced today on behalf of the Government of Canada and the Honourable Minister Mihychuk, Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Labour.

The ways2work program, in collaboration with Second Chance Employment Counselling, is receiving support from the federal government in the amount of $497,096 to help youth develop the skills and knowledge they need in order to get good jobs.

Over a 54 week period, Second Chance Employment Counselling will deliver group-based employability skills programming, followed by work experience, to help 49 youth overcome multiple barriers to employment, and to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to make a successful transition to the labour market or return to school.

Youth will participate in 6 weeks of full-time programming, receiving an allowance based on the provincial minimum wage, and attending sessions on employment skills including change and time management, effective communications, goal setting, problem solving, team building, workplace safety and security, creating resumes and cover letters, interview basics and employment standards.

The participants will develop job search portfolios that will act as their framework towards the career path that they will pursue. Participants will acquire industry standard training and certification in First Aid with Level A Cardio- Pulmonary Resuscitation, Safe Food Handling, Smart Serve and Fall Arrest Certification.

The ways2work program will give youth opportunities to network with employers as well as tour local businesses. They will work with Job Developers who will develop a goal for their employment placement.

QUOTES

“Second Chance has been a trusted partner in helping Guelph job seekers of all ages to connect with job opportunities since 1973, with strong connections to the local business community. I am so pleased that our government’s support will enable Second Chance and the ways2work program to continue to help Guelph youth get the skills they need to find good jobs.‎”

— Lloyd Longfield, MP for Guelph

“It’s so encouraging to see the quality of ambitious and creative projects like ways2work. Young Canadians who face barriers to employment are looking for opportunities—and projects like this give them hope for a brighter future, while helping to strengthen and grow our middle class.”

— Minister MaryAnn Mihychuk, Minister of Employment, Workplace Development and Labour

“Ways2work is a great programme.  Over the past 8 years we have had over 375 youth participate in this federally funded programme, with each one bringing their own unique personalities and energy to the group.  This funding has allowed us to design and deliver a programme with a holistic approach to service that addresses the essential foundational skills for success in the workforce.  Along with our federally funded RISE programme, 2^nd Chance is able to give our community a wide range of supports and services, and for over 40 years it has been an honour.

— “ Chris Baginski-Hansen, Second Chance Employment Counselling