Searching for a job can be challenging, especially for first-time job seekers, those looking to re-enter the job market or who are lacking the confidence to approach potential employers.
For over 40 years, Guelph-based 2nd Chance Employment Counselling has been providing Employment Counselling services thanks to partnerships with the provincial and federal governments which includes Employment Ontario. The organization has grown and evolved and provides job search support to community members of all ages. 2nd Chance Employment Counselling also offers personal and customized counselling services to individuals exploring training and career options.
Job Development Coordinator Sue Gordon says, “In addition to our employment counselling programs, we host a number of youth programs, which include Ways2Work and the Youth Job Connection and Youth Job Connection - Summer programs, where youth are able to be paid get the skills and training they need to be successful in the workplace, We also are an ODSP Employment Supports Service Provider, this means we are able to offer our Achieving Competitive Employment (ACE) program for individuals with disabilities.”
Gordon says that the organization assists many people from a variety of backgrounds and personal situations. “We come across many different people in all stages of their life. Young teens, students, new grads, new Canadians Individuals looking at career changes and laid-off workers looking for re-training, injured workers, workers with disabilities, retired workers looking to supplement income and any other scenario you can think of!”
2nd Chance Employment Counselling has helped many individuals experience successful outcomes. “Our success stories don’t always result in them finding work. Sometimes it’s them feeling confident in approaching employers or leaving our office with a great resume or even just letting them know about supports available in the community,” says Gordon.
She adds, “We have assisted people who are marginalized and have little hope in finding a positive influence in the community. They have come away from our office feeling empowered and able to think beyond what they originally thought they could do. Something as simple as giving advice on interviews or a couple of job leads really does wonders for some people.”
Shannon Smythe* is one such success story. Having left a toxic work environment to protect her mental health, Shannon worked many odd jobs to make ends meet, but none of them was a great fit. After five years of struggling, Shannon finally connected with 2nd Chance Employment Counselling. Through working with an employment counsellor, Shannon was able to build the courage and confidence to go back to school to acquire additional work skills, which would allow her to become more employable. She is currently doing well in her studies and feeling confident about her future and future job prospects.
2nd Chance Employment Counselling serves Guelph and Wellington County with an office in Fergus that serves the surrounding areas including Clifford, Erin, Harriston, Hillsburgh, Mount Forest, Palmerston, Puslinch and Rockwood. Gordon says, “Our same level of service and quality programs are extended to each of the communities we serve, as we believe that smaller communities deserve the same level of service as their urban counterparts.”
For more information, visit the 2nd Chance Employment Counselling website or call 519.823.2440.
*Client’s name has been changed to protect her identity.