Pre-Employment Relief Worker Training

August 2022 – November 2022 – CLOSED

All applicants must be receiving Ontario Works (OW); ask your worker for a referral.

There is increased recognition in the social service sector that people with lived experience/peer workers bring valuable skills, empathy, and an ability to relate to and support others who are accessing the social service system. At the same time, the opportunity to work allows people who are living in poverty to change their economic status and feel empowered by their contribution to society. Our program is one of the few that provides in-depth training that prepares people to work as relief workers in shelters, drop-ins and housing programs. By starting as relief workers, our graduates have the opportunity to gain experience and move on to full-time employment in the social service sector.

Contact Dawnmarie Harriott dawnmarie@workingforchange.ca

Peer Shelter Training

January 4th – March 31st 2022 – CLOSED

All applicants do NOT need to be on Ontario Works.

A peer is a person who has experienced situations similar to those faced by clients an agency serves.  Peers generally have expert and insider knowledge through their experiences that can have a positive result in providing services, resources and support to a particular group or community.  In addition to expertise, peers can foster trust, inclusivity and increased safety to community members who experience barriers accessing services and supports.

Peers mentor, educate and offer emotional, social and community support.  They listen, advise, refer and provide practical information, tips, resources and/or supplies.

Contact Dawnmarie Harriott dawnmarie@workingforchange.ca

Pre-Employment Food & Horticulture Training

All applicants must be receiving Ontario Works (OW)

May – July 2021 – CLOSED  

We offer a 12 week training program focusing on employment in either the food or horticulture sectors. In addition to receiving pre-employment training which focuses on assisting people who have been out of the workplace for extended periods, participants also have on the job training in their selected area. Some of the graduates of the program find work in our social enterprises, Parkdale Green Thumb Enterprises, Out of This World Cafe, and the Raging Spoon Catering Company.

Contact Lubna Khalid lubna@workingforchange.ca

WRAP Around Covid-19 Support Program

May – July 2021 – CLOSED

August – October 2021

All applicants must be receiving Ontario Works (OW); ask your worker for a referral starting  July 2021.

We offer a 10- week program focusing on wellness. We will connect with participants who are struggling and in urgent need during the COVID-19 crisis—people who are socially isolated, experiencing mental health issues, poverty, and in need of community resources including food or financial resources.

Contact Lubna Khalid lubna@workingforchange.ca