Employment

The real world of work is the best way for the participant to learn what is needed to become employable for the long term. Employers in the mainstream economy serve as a critical source of learning for young people in their growth toward employability.

In the struggle for survival in street culture, young people often abandon the qualities necessary for reliable employability. As Doorway participants begin to identify assets and marketable skills within themselves, they move to bridge the gap between their current reality and the skills they need to develop. As the participants’ perspectives change, they often look to academic upgrading as an additional source of skill development and personal growth.

Casual employment offers the greatest degree of flexibility in relearning patterns of work and stability as participants adjust to becoming part of the workforce. They learn to make choices that maximize their personal stability, and to exploit the assets they possess. They also learn which aspects of their lives are impediments to employability.

Apprenticeship is an important option for participants to explore. This is a uniquely effective learning environment in which knowledge and hands-on training are combined to create a greater learning opportunity than could be provided in a classroom alone. For many young people, gaining skills in the trades provides realistic hope and a way to earn (sustain their survival) while they learn. Success in employment also gives rise to a sense of diligence and purpose – qualities desired by employers.

If you are able to provide an employment opportunity for a Doorway participant, please contact us at 403 269 6658 or email friends@thedoorway.ca