Website FAQ and Testimonials

General Program Questions

1. What is JOBS4U, and what services do you offer?

JOBS4U is an employment training program designed to help youth and early-career professionals develop job-ready skills, gain work experience, and connect with employers. We offer:

• Employment Skills Training (EST): Instructor-led job readiness training, resume building, interview preparation, and workplace skills development.
• Career Coaching & Support: One-on-one career coaching, job search assistance, and networking opportunities.
• Quality Employment Opportunity (QEO) Work Placements: Paid work experience to help participants transition into the workforce.
• Industry Certifications: Some program components may offer recognized certifications (e.g., Safe Food Handling, WHMIS).

2. Who is eligible to participate in JOBS4U?

The program is open to youth aged 15-30 years old who are:

• Both out of work and out of school.
• Looking for their first job or require support with looking for work.
• Interested in building skills in various industries.
• Legally eligible to work in Canada.

No prior work experience is required.

3. How long does the program last?

JOBS4U is a 12-week program divided into two phases:

• Phase 1: Employment Skills Training (EST) – 4 Weeks
  • Participants attend structured 30-hour per week training sessions, including career coaching and job preparation.
• Phase 2: Quality Employment Opportunity (QEO) – 8 Weeks
  • Participants engage in a paid work placement (35 hours per week) with an employer to gain real-world experience.

4. Is the program in-person or online?

JOBS4U is primarily an in-person program, with structured training sessions held at our location. However, some job preparation tasks, coaching sessions, and career deliverables may be completed through online platforms.

5. How do I apply for JOBS4U?

You can apply by:

1. Visiting our website and selecting the JOBS4U program.
2. Completing the online application form and submitting required documents.
3. Attending an intake interview to assess program fit and readiness.

Spaces are limited, so early applications are encouraged.

Program Experience & Benefits

6. What kind of skills or knowledge will I gain in JOBS4U?

Participants will develop:

• Professional skills: Resume writing, cover letter creation, and networking.
• Workplace skills: Communication, problem-solving, and conflict resolution.
• Job-specific skills: Digital tools, customer service, project management, and industry-specific certifications.

7. Will I receive a certificate after completing the program?

Yes, participants who successfully complete the program receive a certificate of completion, which can be added to resumes and LinkedIn profiles. Additionally, some participants may receive industry-recognized certifications (e.g., First Aid CPR Level C, Safe Food Handling, WHMIS) based on training content.

8. Do I need prior work experience to join?

No, JOBS4U is designed for youth and early-career professionals who are new to the workforce or looking to transition into a new role. The program provides foundational training to help participants gain confidence and workplace readiness skills.

9. Will I be guaranteed a job after completing the program?

While JOBS4U cannot guarantee employment, we provide strong job search support, employer connections, and hands-on work experience to improve your job prospects. Many participants secure full-time roles after completing the program.

10. Does JOBS4U offer job placement assistance?

Yes, we provide:

• Job search support and career coaching.
• Resume and interview preparation to help participants become more competitive.
• Connections with hiring partners for potential job placements.

11. How does the Quality Employment Opportunity (QEO) work placement phase work?

During the 8-week work placement, participants:

• Work approximately 35 hours per week in a real job setting.
• Receive a wage based on Ontario minimum wage.
• Gain hands-on experience and industry exposure.

Staff will provide ongoing coaching and site visits to ensure success in the workplace.

Logistics & Financial Support

12. Do I get paid while participating in JOBS4U?

Yes, eligible participants receive financial compensation for both phases of the program:

• EST Training Phase: Participants receive Ontario minimum wage for attending training sessions.
• QEO Work Placement Phase: Participants are paid hourly wages by their employer.
• Completion Bonus: Participants who successfully complete both phases may receive an additional $250 completion bonus.

13. Is there any cost to join JOBS4U?

No, JOBS4U is a fully funded program, and there are no fees for eligible participants.

14. Do I need a laptop or any special equipment?

Participants are encouraged to have access to a laptop or desktop computer for job preparation tasks and online learning. We may provide free laptops for participants who need them.

15. Is the program self-paced or instructor-led?

JOBS4U is primarily instructor-led, featuring structured lessons, workshops, and career coaching. However, participants will also complete self-directed job preparation deliverables and engage in independent learning activities.

Additional Support & Follow-Up

16. What happens after I complete the program?

Participants receive continued career support and access to employment resources after graduation, including:

• Ongoing coaching and mentorship
• Job leads and networking opportunities with hiring employers.
• Alumni access to JOBS4U workshops and events.

17. Does JOBS4U provide additional certifications or training?

Yes, depending on the program schedule, participants may have access to industry-recognized certifications, such as:

• First Aid CPR Level C Certification (for all participants).
• Safe Food Handling Certification (for all participants).
• WHMIS Certification (for all participants).
• If you are interested in other certifications, we may be able to assist depending on your career needs.

18. How do participants receive career coaching?

Each participant will have weekly one-on-one coaching sessions with:

• A Career Development Counsellor (to focus on career goals and job search strategy).
• A Job Developer (to align skills with employer needs and work opportunities).

These coaching sessions are structured into the participant’s schedule to ensure no disruptions to training.

TESTIMONIALS

Personal Growth and confidence:

“Before I joined the program, I had no idea how to present myself professionally. The mock interviews gave me the confidence needed, Now, I feel ready to enter the job market and pursue my dream career” _ Amirah Rux

Skill Development & Job Readiness

“This program taught me real-world skills that I never learnt in school- how to network, how to write a strong cover letter and how to stand out in an interview. Thanks to the training I landed an internship in my dream job _Robael Bereket

Community and Lifelong Connections

“Beyond the career skills, this program connected me with an amazing group of like-minded peers. We continue to support each other, share job leads and collaboration on projects even after the program ended”- Adam Elmi

How was the EST overall?

Amazing

I had fun learning new stuff with new prople

It was very fun and I learned alot

It was fun

My overall experience was a 10/10

Beneficial for my professional development

Very helpful, a fun and beneficial environment.

I had a great experience with jobs4u     – All participants