Program helps jobseekers tackle barrriers

When she started the program, the 26 year-old knew that she wanted to work in a hospital. In fact, she had completed a medical transcriptionist course by correspondence. But, like the other four program participants, there were barriers blocking her way to gainful employment.

McGuire was a single mother, and finding childcare was a problem. She was living in an apartment that was costing her more than she could afford. The challenges facing her were undermining her self-confidence.

Counselors at Employment Opportunities Partnership taught McGuire how to create a budget. That budget revealed that she had to move to a more affordable apartment. McGuire made the move, and she created a childcare plan that worked for her.

Rebecca says she was also required to do an evaluation of her skills, talents, and assets–and that process provided a significant boost to her self-confidence.

Bebe MacLean, Youth Skills Link program’s coordinator, approached Digby General Hospital about the possibility of providing Rebecca with work experience, with Service Canada providing the weekly paycheque. The hospital was happy to oblige.

Shirley Dugas, McGuire’s supervisor at the hospital, says the young woman worked in various positions–including receptionist, transcriptionist, front office registration and ward clerk. She describes McGuire as “an excellent addition to the workforce.”

With the program drawing to a close, McGuire was asked to submit a resume, and has become a casual employee at the hospital. Dugas points out that most permanent employees begin as casuals and adds that she is equally impressed with McGuire and with the Youth Skills Link program,

MacLean, who found term employment for all five participants in the program, expresses pride in how far each of them has come.

At the closing ceremony for the program, MacLean thanked each young person for their commitment and hard work. She also thanked Digby Treasures, Saulnierville Pharmacy, L’stitkuk Environment, ADEDA, and South West Nova District Health–who all provided employment opportunities.

The Employment Opportunities Partnership, located at 1 Birch St., was formerly known as Digby Disabilities Partnership.