The Skills Link program is a federally funded, Youth Job Readiness initiative sponsored by the Nelson & District Youth Centre.
A group of nine youth recently completed the first phase of the program which focused on life and employability skills. During this time, participants also completed skills enhancement certificates in first aid, WHMIS, Food Safe and World Host.
Skills Link participants have now started the second phase which is volunteering in various locations around the city. Volunteering is an opportunity for youth to apply their newly acquired skills as well as work with a team while providing service to their community.
You may have noticed the participants at the Salvation Army Community Services, the City of Nelson campground, SHARE Nelson, ANKORS and the Soup Kitchen.
On July 9, four youth weeded the front garden at Jubilee Manor then assisted residents with bingo. All participants enjoyed this experience stating that some of the residents reminded them of their own grandparents that they rarely see.
“It was incredible watching how natural the participants were, repeating bingo numbers and re-explaining the rules,” said Elaine Chernoff, Skills Link facilitator.
“I really liked the gardening, it was fun and the bingo was fun too,” said Taya S., the youngest participant in the Skills Link program.
Jubilee Manor was pleased with the way the partnership worked out.
“The participants got in there and really helped the residents and I could tell that the residents enjoyed having young people around,” said Edith Penner, activity aide at Jubilee Manor.
Skills Link youth also visited seniors at Broader Horizons on July 20.
Phase three has now started with participants starting work experience. Participants researched job opportunities relevant to their needs and their action plan goals and will be ready to work for you. They pay them for your training.
If you are interested in helping local youth develop skills and experiences that will assist them in becoming successful in today’s competitive workforce contact the Skills Link program, Sharlot Philip, lead facilitator or Elaine Chernoff at 250-352-5656.