Do you face barriers to finding a job? The Pathways to Employment is an employment program to help people between 15 and 30 years of age with disabilities or health conditions that make it difficult for them to find work. Pathways offers 5 weeks of paid employment skills training and an 12 week employment opportunity. Participants will earn minimum wage per hour for 150 hours of pre-employment training, and receive complimentary employment coaching, one-on-one mentorship, and job readiness training that will help prepare them for today’s competitive labour market. This project is funded by the Government of Canada.
Registration for Pathways to Employment Program
Enter your contact information in the form below and our staff will connect with you.
The next Pathways cohort starts 6 November 2023.
Email jobs@goodwillonline.ca or call our staff for your questions.
What the Pathways to Employment Program offers:
- 5 weeks of free Skills Building Workshops (Minimum wage provided for participation) followed by 12 weeks of one-on-one mentoring to support employment goals
- Virtual training from Monday to Friday 9:00 am to 12:00 pm followed by independent practical activities with mentors from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm
- Access to mental health support (CBT) during the program
- Access to Technical Skills Training and certifications
- Accommodations are provided for individuals who need in-person support and training
Benefits and Opportunities
- Access to monetary support during the 5 weeks of training
- Participants will learn Technical skills including access to First Aid and CPR certification, WHMIS, etc., and acquire essential skills like conflict resolution, financial literacy, resume building, and interview skills to support career goals.
- Access to job fairs to connect with local employers and industry professionals for full-time, long-term employment opportunities
- Access to mental health support (CBT) during the program
- Access to one-on-one coaching and mentoring by career specialists to develop short-term and long-term career goals and plans
Eligibility
- Between 15 and 30 years of age
- Have a physical or mental health disability (documented or self-disclosed)
- Not in school or working
- Eligible to work in Canada
- Resident of the Hamilton or Halton Region
- Ability to attend 5 weeks of online training from 09:00 AM – 12:00 PM Monday to Friday and complete related assignments
Minimum requirements
Pathways to Employment is a hybrid learning model utilizing an online and experiential curriculum to develop a skilled and dedicated workforce.
- Laptop or desktop computer
- Internet access
- Speakers + microphones
- Email address
- Webcam
- A quiet space
- Designated time
- Access to equipment is available if needed
Training Details
Participants will learn essential and technical skills with provincially and federally recognized certifications.
Technical Skills Training and Certifications
- First Aid and CPR
- Health and Safety
- WHMIS certification
- Smart Serve
- Working at Heights
Professional Skills Training
- Communication Skills
- Diversity and Inclusion
- Resume and Cover letter
- Interview Skills
- Confidence and Motivation
- Document Use
- Computer Use