The youth unemployment rate is double the national average.  The youth unemployment rate has been climbing dramatically over the past several years and at the beginning of 2011 reached 19.5%, the highest rate on record.  This summer YWS launched an on-site employment program to support youth residing at YWS. Dedicated employment counselling is now available for employment assessments; job search; resume writing and interview skill development; and connection to career shadowing and volunteer opportunities. The program aims to alleviate the barriers homeless youth encounter in finding and maintaining employment such as: literacy, legal issues and lack of financial resources to access appropriate foot and work wear. Stay tuned for updates as this program unfolds.

“Employment Connections” Room is taking shape to support the Employment Program.  With the vision of two dedicated volunteers a storage area at YWS is being transformed into a space where youth can work with the Employment Counsellor to be equipped with work wear.  Work wear needs include:  steel toed work boots (male and female); non-slip footwear for use in the hospitality industry; industrial and construction clothing items; and professional wear for interviews.