Starting today, Monday, job hunters in the Tri-Cities will be able to visit one-stop service centres to get help finding a job.
In all, four offices are opening in this region: two in Coquitlam and one each in Port Moody and Port Coquitlam as part of a network of 85 Work B.C. centres operating in 73 geographic areas of the province, along with 114 satellite offices.
In Port Moody, Training Innovations Inc. is running the WorkBC Employment Services Centre, which will offer assistance with job searches, employment counselling and case management, and financial support to help people get skills training, work experience and self-employment opportunities.
"It's a great asset and a benefit to the community," said Tina Strehlke, vice-president of communications.
She said the centre will also provide specialized services to youth, immigrants, First Nations, francophones, and the disabled who used to have to go different service providers to get employment help. All can now get access to services in one office. "We assess their needs when they are here," said Strehlke, who said appointments aren't necessary, job seekers can simply drop in to get assistance.
Training Innovations, which also operates WorkBC centres in Squamish and Whistler, will be partnering with local agencies such as Douglas College, Immigrant Services Society of BC, Life Strategies Ltd., Open Door Group and SUCCESS to offer specialized services.
"We are delighted to lead the establishment of this centre, to be part of the solution in addressing this community's employment and labour market needs, and helping individuals make positive and successful career decisions," stated Tannis Goddard, president and founder of Training Innovations in a press release. "As a long-time resident of Port Moody, I'm thrilled to bring such a comprehensive and client-centred employment service to the community."
The new program replaces four B.C.-funded employment programs and six others paid for under the Canada-B.C. Labour Market Development Agreement.
In the Tri-Cities, The Work BC Employment Centres are opening at the following locations:
206/208 - 2540 Shaughnessy St. Port Coquitlam
3030 Lincoln Ave., Coquitlam
130 Brew Street, Port Moody, 6th floor
405 North Road, Coquitlam
For more information, visit http://www.workbc.ca/workbccentres/welcome.htm
