Youth Works

RBC logo and Canada logo

Youth Works Program sponsored by RBC Future Launch and funded in part by the Government of Canada under the Youth Employment and Skills Strategy Program

 

Youth Works is a pre-employment development program that aims to help youth in and from care in their transition to independence.

 

When youth “age out” of the child welfare system, it can be a stressful and disorienting time. They lose access to all supports, including a social worker and other resources. Children’s Aid Foundation of Canada is committed to helping to ensure that youth transitioning from child welfare across Canada into an independent life have improved access to post-secondary education and to setting them on the course for finding and maintaining meaningful employment. In partnership with six child- and youth-serving partners, we are implementing the Youth Works program in Richmond, British Columbia; Calgary, Alberta; Brandon, Manitoba; Toronto, Ontario; Ottawa, Ontario; and Fredericton, New Brunswick.

Youth Works Impact Report

Download PDF

Youth Works Impact Report (FR)

Download PDF

Program Components

1. Employability Skills

Employment counselors will work with youth participants individually or in groups to prepare them for their employment path (preparing resumes, completing job applications, employment-readiness skills, career development, networking opportunities, etc.)

2. Internships and Job Placements

Youth who are job-ready will receive support with job searching and be referred to employers for meaningful work experience

3. Employment Training Supports

Youth who need credentials or training for entry-level jobs such as first aid and CPR, food handler’s certification, or a driver’s license to accept a job will be supported in accessing them

Eligibility

  • Youth in and from permanent care aged 16-29
  • Various education achieved – some high school, GED, high school diploma, some post-secondary school, post-secondary degree or diploma
  • Ready for employment – criteria may include: being motivated to find and keep a job, having stable housing, mental health issues being treated, and willingness and commitment to follow through with training and job placement

Interested in participating?

Calgary

 Kristin Fingas
[email protected]

Toronto and GTA

 Asifa Malik
[email protected]

Ottawa

 Mitra Zouhmand
[email protected]

Richmond or Vancouver

 Anisha Sarana
[email protected]

Brandon

 Afolake Ajadi
[email protected]

Fredericton or Saint John

 Sue King
[email protected]