Our Learning Centre is a valuable resource dedicated to supporting our residential clients who have encountered significant barriers to employment, such as homelessness, addiction, and incarceration. We understand that success takes on various forms, and we acknowledge that even mastering the basic operation of a computer can be an extraordinary accomplishment for our learners. At the heart of the Learning Centre’s mission is the primary objective to enhance employability and promote employment stability through individually-targeted education and personal development.
To ensure the success of our participants, we provide a range of programs and services within three key learning streams, all of which are facilitated by our Learning Education and Skills Development Counsellor and a team of committed volunteers:
1. Adult Basic Education & Literacy Programs:
Our Adult Basic Education and Literacy Programs offer self-directed learning opportunities, complemented by guidance and tutoring from our skilled volunteers and the Learning Centre Education and Skills Development Counsellor. Recognizing that each individual has unique needs, subjects, and goals, we adopt flexible teaching approaches. We also provide specialized support for diverse learning needs, including those related to Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), dyslexia, and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). While some participants aim to complete their high school equivalency, others focus on improving their English reading and writing skills, while others still seek to upgrade their abilities in preparation for post-secondary courses. Additionally, we offer guidance for higher education, including both academic and vocational courses, and provide referrals for available grants.
2. Career Development, Life Skills & Work Readiness:
Within this learning stream, we empower participants to enhance their employability through a combination of group and one-to-one coaching sessions. Computer skills are taught progressively, ensuring that participants gain proficiency in essential tasks such as creating an email address, developing a resume, and utilizing search tools for job hunting. Alongside computer literacy, the Learning Centre engages participants in life skills training that covers a wide range of practical competencies, including resume writing, budgeting, mindfulness, and stress management. To further support work readiness, we offer training in common certifications such as FoodSafe, Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS), and Occupational First Aid. These certifications can significantly improve earning potential, particularly within the local hospitality and construction industries.
3. Creativity, Critical Thinking & Community Engagement:
In this learning stream, we prioritize the development of “soft” skills that play a pivotal role in fostering employment stability. Participants are encouraged to cultivate critical thinking, conflict resolution, and creativity, which are vital in today’s job market. Health and wellness are also central to our activities, ensuring a holistic approach to personal growth. Throughout the year, we offer a diverse range of activities to align with the evolving goals and interests of our participants. For instance, the Learning Centre’s “Documentary club” helps individuals become curious and critical thinkers, while also teaching them the importance of respectful disagreement resolution—a valuable skill when entering a new work environment. In addition, participants engaged in writing and artistic endeavors within the Learning Centre gain essential editing, collaboration, and design skills through the creation of our quarterly newsletter.
By providing comprehensive learning streams and individualized support, our Learning Centre empowers clients to overcome previous obstacles and establish a solid foundation for long-term employability and success. Through personalized education, personal development activities, and the dedication of our Learning Education and Skills Development Counsellor and volunteers, we strive to transform lives and create positive, sustainable change.