An employment program that helps people with challenges such as homelessness or a criminal record get back into the workforce is marking five years.
Our WorkPlace, which is run by the Our Place Society, recently held an open house to mark the milestone in its efforts to assist those with employment barriers such as mental and physical issues and gaps in their work background.
“We want the public to see just how uplifting this program can be, not just to the people we serve but to the incredible companies who are hiring them,” said program manager Ashley MacDonald.
The program has partnered with the Ministry of Social Development and Poverty Reduction since 2021 on an initiative called People in Progress that includes six weeks of pre-employment and personal-development training, five weeks of work experience and a week of follow-up.
It uses group training and one-to-one coaching to help participants develop skills to find work, including stress management, conflict resolution, budgeting, resume writing and using Zoom and Microsoft Teams.
MacDonald said the support doesn’t end when people find work. “We stay connected with people through the initial stages of work to ensure they have the best chance of success.”
Local employers like Bin 4 Burger Lounge and the Cook Street Seniors Activity Centre are among those that have offered opportunities to those in the program.
“It’s a win-win situation for both employer and employee,” MacDonald said. “Seeing someone succeed in getting work and watching their confidence grow is an amazing experience and one we think is worth celebrating in the community.”
Prospective employers and participants can call or text 778-817-0354 or 250-981-0938, email [email protected] or drop by the Our WorkPlace offices at 1627 Quadra St.
Oak Bay High choir teacher among winners of Premier’s Award
Oak Bay High School choir teacher Christina Horwood is among the winners of the Premier’s Awards for Excellence given out recently at Government House.
She won in the category of extracurricular leadership.
Cowichan Valley School District director of instruction Larry Mattin was a finalist in the district leadership category.
There were 113 nominations and 34 finalists in 10 categories that also included outstanding new teacher, Indigenous education and team collaboration.
The awards ceremony covered nominations from 2020, 2021 and 2022 because of postponements due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The awards showcase those in kindergarten to Grade 12 schools who make a difference in students’ lives, said Education Minister Jennifer Whiteside.
“Whether it’s an outstanding new teacher, an administrator leading a school, a custodian or outreach worker who provides extra support or teachers and staff passionate about Indigenous education, social justice and equity, it’s an honour to bring the finalists together to celebrate their dedication to their students and school communities.”
Winners received a $3,000 taxable bursary for personal learning and a $2,000 contribution to their school community for professional learning, while runners-up received $1,000 in each of those areas.
The awards program was launched in 2018.
Charging up EVs
The District of Central Saanich is offering a new grant to help local businesses and non-profit organizations install public charging stations.
The Business Electric Vehicle (EV) Charger Grant offers 50 per cent of the overall cost of a level-two charging station to a maximum of $5,000. A typical charging station costs about $10,000, but the cost can be higher depending on the amount of cabling needed and other factors.
Businesses in Central Saanich, the Tsartlip First Nation and the Tsawout First Nation are eligible, with applications accepted until Dec. 31.
There will be a second chance to apply in 2023.
“The Business EV Charger Grant helps businesses install this in-demand infrastructure on their properties,” said Central Saanich Mayor Ryan Windsor. “Partnering with businesses to increase the availability of public chargers is a key action the District of Central Saanich is taking towards our community climate targets.”
The grant program will include publicizing the locations of charging stations.
For more go to centralsaanich.ca/EVchargergrant.
Government Street hosts Wicked Victoria
The eighth annual Thrifty Foods Wicked Victoria is coming to Government Street, from Broughton Street to Yates Street, next weekend.
The pedestrian-only event runs from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Oct. 30 and features live performances by the Love Cats and Cookeilidh, local vendors, inflatables for children, crafts and a francophone area.
People are encouraged to come in costume. Costume contests will be held for both kids and animals.
The event is presented by the Greater Victoria Festival Society.
Meanwhile, Trick or Treat on the Avenue returns to Oak Bay after a two-year absence from 2-5 p.m. on Oct. 31.
Participating businesses in Oak Bay Village, on Oak Bay Avenue from Monterey Avenue to Foul Bay Road, will be giving out treats, with entertainment from the likes of jugglers, stilt walkers and hula hoopers. Live music will be by the Gravity Wheel Band with Mike Sampson, Diane Taylor, Brad Hawkes and Burke Rosen.
Carved, illuminated pumpkins will be on street poles and Canvas Community Church will host games and activities.
A costume contest for pets will be held at 4 p.m., with winners earning prizes for both themselves and their owners.
Author donating half of royalties from Halloween book
Victoria children’s author Jean Paetkau is donating 50 per cent of the October royalties from her new Halloween book The Snufflewort Haunting to Backpack Buddies.
The organization, which began in 2012 with a mother and daughter providing 20 backpacks filled with food to children in East Vancouver, now distributes close to 4,500 bags of food each week around B.C. to children in need.
There are 230 distribution partners, including more than 200 schools.
The book is available at amazon.ca.
>>> To comment on this article, write a letter to the editor: [email protected]
