The last time I posted on this site about work, it was that my cleaning job contract had finished and it was not renewed. I felt very discouraged about not being brought back on, even though I didn't particularly like the job. Just that feeling of failure, I suppose.

Well, my worker signed me up for a program called Youth Job Connection. You attend workshops (40 hours worth) and complete a booklet (20 hours worth) and get paid for attending and doing the booklet. So I will be learning new skills, learning about myself, and being paid for it! Afterwards, they hook you up with a job that suits your tastes and skills.

Today was my first workshop - Drug and Alcohol Awareness. It only lasted 45 minutes, but you get paid for 3 hours every workshop, no matter what. So that is pretty awesome!

For any fellow Ontarians reading this, the program is for people ages 15-29 and I would definitely recommend it if you're having a hard time finding or keeping employment. I am not sure about the rest of Canada (or the world, for that matter) but perhaps there are similar services available to you.

[sito]

I am too old for the work shop

[The_little_didgee]

Originally Posted by sito

I am too old for the work shop

Apparently youth employment agencies can take clients over 29, as long as the "over agers" don't exceed 10% of the clientele. Offering employment services solely to 15 - 29 year olds is discrimination.

Ontario has other options such as Employment Ontario. They are able to refer to other agencies in the community that may be more suitable for your situation. I got a referral to an organization that helps people with disabilities find meaningful employment. So far I have been impressed with all the help they have given me. Now I'm getting ready to look for work at the age of 39.

[The_little_didgee]

Originally Posted by scaredandconfused

Well, my worker signed me up for a program called Youth Job Connection. You attend workshops (40 hours worth) and complete a booklet (20 hours worth) and get paid for attending and doing the booklet. So I will be learning new skills, learning about myself, and being paid for it! Afterwards, they hook you up with a job that suits your tastes and skills.

Is the job placement limited to entry positions such as customer service or can you choose what direction you want to go in?

Originally Posted by The_little_didgee

Is the job placement limited to entry positions such as customer service or can you choose what direction you want to go in?

Most people in this program don't have a lot of education (I, for example, only have some college under my belt). So we are limited to jobs that we can qualify for, but it definitely doesn't have to be customer service if it's not your cup of tea.

[The_little_didgee]

Originally Posted by scaredandconfused

Most people in this program don't have a lot of education (I, for example, only have some college under my belt). So we are limited to jobs that we can qualify for, but it definitely doesn't have to be customer service if it's not your cup of tea.

I can relate to the lack of education. All I have is half of a university degree and one credit short of a college certificate. I'm not exactly attractive to potential employers. Some of that college may be very helpful to getting employment. E.g., computer skills/software knowledge.

I'm glad to hear you will have choice. I hope this works out. Will you be getting support/coaching?

Originally Posted by The_little_didgee

I can relate to the lack of education. All I have is half of a university degree and one credit short of a college certificate. I'm not exactly attractive to potential employers. Some of that college may be very helpful to getting employment. E.g., computer skills/software knowledge.

I'm glad to hear you will have choice. I hope this works out. Will you be getting support/coaching?

Thank you very much. The program seems very promising and I hope it leads to a job that I like. Yes, I have a worker who is supporting me along the way. She has been great so far.

Tomorrow's workshop is on motivation, I definitely need this one!

[barbella]

Is this part of 'YES' (youth employment services)? It sounds wonderful and I hope you get something that really suits you.