Growing up and navigating the world can be a daunting task if you don’t have support along the way. For many young people, the school system can provide not only knowledge, but skills to help them transition from childhood to adulthood. For some, the traditional school system doesn’t provide the flexibility and support they need to be successful, and they often get labeled as disobedient or unmotivated, falling through the cracks. Sometimes, all these young people need, is a supportive person to listen to them. Someone to understand their specific needs and help guide them along the way; no matter how long it may take, or how many obstacles are in their path.
In many communities there are champion organizations that are willing to work with young people in the way that they want, and with successful outcomes. They look to build skills, confidence, and support young people who may not follow a traditional path to be successful in their community. One such organization, Youth Opportunities Unlimited, is located in London, Ontario. Over the next few months, we will explore the different programs and services they offer to support youth to thrive in their community.
Youth Opportunities Unlimited (YOU) is a youth serving organization that supports young people in London and Middlesex County to build skills, confidence and thrive in their community. Through their wrap around approach, youth aged 15-29, can receive supports around employment, education, training, health, housing and basic needs. YOU believes that no matter what barriers a youth may be facing they can be successful in the community; all they need is a little bit of help. For over 30 years YOU has been providing youth with not only one on one case management and group workshops, but also with hands on training through their Social Enterprises.
The first program at YOU we will explore is Training for Employment Success (TESS). The Training for Employment Success program is a three week, pre-employment program, that support youth on Ontario Works, to build employment readiness skills. Through interactive and discussion based workshops, youth learn the key skills and information they need to navigate the job market! This includes job searching, interview skills and the rights and responsibilities of a worker. Not only does TESS provide youth with tangible employment skills, it also provides youth with transferable life skills, such as time management and communication. Throughout the workshops youth also complete certified trainings in WHMIS and AODA. Youth who take part in the program often comment on how fun and engaging the workshops are, and how quickly the time goes.
To learn more about Youth Opportunities Unlimited and its programs and services we connected with Michelle Moran, Workshop Facilitator – Training for Employment Success.
Although Youth Opportunities Unlimited is only located in London, Ontario there are many organizations across the province that support young people to become successful in their community. Local, Provincial and Federally funded youth support programs, such as the Youth Job Connection, are available in many communities and provide supports beyond employment. Check out your local employment centres, community centres and youth serving organizations to see what programs and supports they might available in your community.
