Employer Programs & Services

From uncertainty after a layoff to renewed direction, Steven gained confidence, explored a path in law enforcement, and secured full-time employment while working toward his long-term goals.

Steven first connected with Community Employment Services feeling uncertain about his career direction and future goals. Having lived in Canada since the 1980s after immigrating from England, he had built extensive experience in sales and management.

Following a layoff from his previous role, Steven was eager to move forward and explore new career opportunities. He expressed a strong interest in law enforcement and public service but was unsure of the steps needed to qualify or where to begin.

Once Steven began working with his Employment Consultant, he received individualized support to develop an action plan aligned with his interest in policing and community service. He was assisted with resume development, interview preparation, and career planning, helping him identify how his communication and leadership skills could transfer into a new field. After one counselling session, Steven shared that he had been feeling incredibly stressed but felt hopeful for the first time in a long while and confident that he was moving in the right direction. He was also referred to a local event where he met with a police constable, gained insight into policing careers, and built valuable networking connections.

With continued support, Steven was assisted with registering for the Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police (OACP) Certificate, a key requirement for individuals pursuing a career in policing. During this time, Steven secured a full time, permanent position as a Business Development Manager with a well established community based emergency response and first aid organization. This opportunity provides financial stability while he continues working toward his long term goal of joining the police force. Steven is grateful for the guidance and encouragement he received and looks forward to building a stable and meaningful future.

After losing his long-term role, Ali rebuilt his confidence, secured multiple job offers, and found stability in a new full-time position.

At 42, Ali found himself facing one of the most difficult moments of his life. A Permanent Resident originally from Iran, Ali had spent 15 years working as an Inventory Controller when the company he was employed with closed its warehouse, resulting in a sudden layoff. This unexpected change left Ali feeling anxious and uncertain about his next steps.

The team at Community Employment Services provided Ali with the support he needed during this challenging time. Despite experiencing anxiety, Ali remained proactive and was supported in connecting with local employers and exploring available employment opportunities. He attended the assessment centre to validate his skills for his occupational goal and participated in career counselling and interview preparation workshops. With encouragement from the CES team, Ali also explored job postings through WorkInOxford.ca and applied to several positions.

Ali’s persistence and preparation paid off. He received multiple job offers and accepted a full time position as a Shipping and Receiving Associate. Selected from a pool of 16 candidates, Ali’s success reflected both his determination and the strength of his preparation. This role has provided renewed financial stability and a fresh start for Ali and his family. Recognizing the stress Ali had experienced, the CES team also shared information about mental health supports available in the community to ensure he had access to resources supporting his overall well being.

Ali is optimistic about the future. Reflecting on his journey, Ali shared, “I shall always remember the support and encouragement offered to me. Without these, I would not have been able to find my way back to where I was.”

Following a layoff, Justin pursued advanced training to expand his skills and build a more secure future in the trades.

Justin, an experienced flat roof installer with a Grade 12 education, connected with Community Employment Services after being laid off from his role as a Lead Hand and Safety Representative at a roofing company. Having spent nearly two years in this position, Justin was eager to move toward more stable, long term employment and began exploring training options that would support his future in the skilled trades.

Through research and career planning, Justin identified a comprehensive construction training program that closely aligned with his career goals. The program offered a broad range of certifications, including commercial licensing and heavy equipment training, providing Justin with an opportunity to significantly expand his skill set. He recognized the value of the training and described it as a “once in a lifetime opportunity” to strengthen his long term employment prospects.

With the support of his Employment Counsellor, Justin moved forward with his training plan and successfully enrolled in the program through Better Jobs Ontario. Encouraged by the guidance and support he received, Justin remained motivated and confident as he took this important step toward building a more secure and rewarding career.

Reflecting on his experience, Justin expressed deep appreciation for the support he received throughout the process and was so encouraged by the opportunity that he shared his positive experience with others who may be considering similar training pathways.

Facing housing and employment challenges, Tyler rebuilt stability and secured full-time work with ongoing support.

When Tyler first connected with Community Employment Services, he was new to the community and facing a period of instability. Having recently relocated, Tyler was without stable housing, limited income, and a local support network. Despite these challenges, he was motivated to improve his situation and expressed a strong desire to return to work.

Tyler shared his previous experience working as a line cook and his interest in continuing in the food service industry while exploring longer term options for the future. With guidance and encouragement from the CES team, Tyler began focusing on both personal stability and employment readiness. He received regular check ins and was supported in connecting with appropriate community resources to help him address immediate needs.

As his situation began to improve, Tyler participated in resume and cover letter workshops and was registered on WorkInOxford.ca to explore job opportunities. He received assistance with job search activities and career exploration, helping him rebuild confidence and momentum.

With determination and ongoing support, Tyler secured stable housing and was hired as a full time Cook and Back of House Team Member with a local employer. CES also supported his transition into the role by assisting with required work clothing to ensure he was fully prepared for his first day.

Reflecting on his experience, Tyler shared his gratitude for the encouragement and support he received during a difficult time. Today, Tyler is employed, housed, and moving forward with renewed confidence and hope.

With resilience and coordinated support, Jeff secured employment, regained housing, and rebuilt stability for himself and his family.

When Jeff first connected with Community Employment Services, he was navigating a period of significant instability. After a series of unexpected setbacks that left him without stable housing, Jeff was determined to turn things around. Despite the challenges he faced, he remained polite, motivated, and focused on rebuilding his life and returning to work.

From the beginning, Jeff shared his strong desire to re enter the workforce. With support from the CES team, he accessed immediate necessities and received guidance to update his résumé, explore employment options, and plan next steps as his situation stabilized. Through CES employer connections, Jeff was supported in identifying job opportunities that aligned with his skills and work history.

At the same time, Jeff’s Employment Counsellor worked collaboratively with Ontario Works and local community agencies to help him address housing instability and regain income support. Through coordinated efforts, Jeff was connected to appropriate resources, allowing him to take steps toward restoring stability while continuing his job search.

Jeff’s persistence paid off when, through CES employment connections, he secured a full time, permanent position as a General Labourer with a local employer. Shortly after beginning work, and with support from local agencies, Jeff was able to move into stable housing for the first time in over a year. This stability allowed him to reunite with his children and begin rebuilding a safe and supportive home for his family.

Today, Jeff is thriving in his role and takes pride in the independence and stability he has regained. His journey demonstrates how meaningful employment, combined with coordinated community support, can provide a foundation for lasting change.

After years out of the workforce, Zelina gained confidence and secured a role that supports her family life.

When Zelina first connected with Community Employment Services, she was facing several challenges. As a single parent to three children, she had been out of the workforce for several years while raising her family. With a Grade 10 education, limited access to transportation, and significant family responsibilities, Zelina shared that she was feeling overwhelmed and unsure how to take the next step toward employment.

With the support of the CES team and in collaboration with Ontario Works, Zelina began focusing on building her confidence and preparing for the workforce. She participated in an interview skills workshop and received individualized guidance to help her feel more comfortable and prepared for job opportunities. Through job development support, Zelina was connected with an employer offering part time work that aligned well with her needs and availability.

Zelina began a part time housekeeping position with a local hotel, where the flexible hours allowed her to balance work and family responsibilities. Throughout the placement, the CES team maintained regular check ins to provide encouragement and support. Zelina consistently shared that she felt happy in her role, and the employer expressed satisfaction with her performance.

Zelina was later hired permanently, marking an important milestone in her journey. After nearly three years on Ontario Works, she is now employed, financially independent, and thriving in a role that suits her strengths and circumstances.

Returning to work after caregiving, Tricia found a role where she thrives and feels fulfilled.

When Tricia first connected with Community Employment Services, she was eager to return to work but also feeling anxious after nearly five years away from the workforce. A single mother of two, including a son diagnosed with autism, Tricia had been focused on caregiving and now hoped to find part time employment that would allow her to balance work and family responsibilities.

From the very beginning, Tricia was proactive and engaged. With the support of the CES team, she refined her resume, explored both remote and local customer service opportunities, and discussed employment incentives that could support her job search. Through the Job Search Café, Tricia rebuilt her confidence and strengthened her interview skills by participating in a workshop and completing a mock interview with staff. While she initially focused on remote work, she remained open to in person opportunities that offered flexibility and a supportive work environment.

When a position became available with a local employer, Tricia applied with guidance from the CES team and was invited for an interview. Following a second round of interviews, she was offered a placement as a Collections and Payment Clerk. From the start, Tricia thrived in her role. She learned quickly, handled customer interactions with professionalism, and grew confident managing tasks independently. Tricia shared that she loved her job and felt it was the perfect fit.

Upon completing her placement, Tricia was offered permanent full time employment as a Customer Service Representative at a competitive wage. This achievement marked an important milestone - not only securing stable employment but also experiencing renewed professional fulfillment after years dedicated to caregiving.

Starting with confidence-building, Jonathan is progressing toward employment through small, meaningful steps.

When Jonathan first connected with Community Employment Services, he shared that he was struggling with low confidence and did not feel ready to enter the workforce. Although he had previously volunteered in a retail setting, Jonathan was very hard on himself and felt discouraged about his lack of formal work experience. At that time, his main goal was to begin building confidence at a pace that felt manageable for him.

Working closely with his Employment Counsellor, Jonathan began identifying small, meaningful steps toward personal growth. Due to ongoing personal challenges, a flexible and client paced approach was taken. Jonathan participated in a series of online workshops from home, focusing on topics such as building confidence, goal setting, stress management, time management, and effective communication. Together, he and his counsellor also worked on strategies to establish healthier daily routines.

As Jonathan’s confidence began to grow, he agreed to explore volunteering as a first step toward community engagement. With support from CES, Jonathan was connected to an opportunity with the local library. He was supported in signing up, attending his first meeting, and preparing for a community book fair event. Jonathan now attends regularly and shares that he is enjoying the experience and feeling more comfortable participating in group activities.

Jonathan continues to make progress toward his personal goals and is developing routines that support his overall well being and independence. While his employment journey is ongoing, he is gaining confidence, building trust, and beginning to feel hopeful about the future.

A young job seeker, Ryan gained skills, secured employment, and began his path toward a career in the trades.

Ryan, age 19, connected with Community Employment Services seeking support to find full time employment. At the time, he was working limited hours in a seasonal retail position and living with his parents. Ryan shared that he was eager to move forward and expressed long term interest in pursuing a career as an electrician.

With support from the CES team, Ryan began preparing for both employment and future training opportunities. He received resume support, created a WorkInOxford.ca account, and had his resume shared with local employers through Employer Services. Ryan also completed essential workplace training, including WHMIS and Health & Safety, to strengthen his employability.

Working closely with his Employment Counsellor, Ryan explored post secondary pathways related to the skilled trades. He researched program options through local colleges, completed career exploration tools, and connected with admissions representatives to better understand his options. Ryan also participated in job search workshops and attended a CES career expo, where he met directly with employers and gained confidence navigating the hiring process.

Ryan remained engaged in his plan and continued preparing through mock interviews and coaching. He secured employment with a local construction company, with CES supporting his transition into the role by assisting with required work equipment. Ryan was also accepted into an electrical program at a local college, setting the stage for continued growth in the skilled trades.

Reflecting on his experience, Ryan shared, “CES has helped me by setting me up with in person appointments to go over what jobs I would be best suited for. They help you through the process of applying to school and for a job… Very friendly staff, overall a great place to go if you find yourself struggling for a job.”

Through dedication and support, Khalil overcame language barriers and secured stable employment in his new community.

Khalil arrived in Canada from Turkey in July 2023 and settled in Woodstock shortly thereafter. Soon after his arrival, he began working as a construction labourer, gaining his first Canadian work experience. Prior to immigrating to Canada, Khalil had spent eight years working in a clothing production warehouse, bringing with him valuable hands on skills and a strong work ethic.

Since connecting with Community Employment Services, Khalil has received both employment and settlement support to help him explore more stable, long term job opportunities aligned with his experience. Khalil faced significant challenges, including low English proficiency and limited literacy in his first language, which made navigating the job search more difficult. Despite these barriers, Khalil remained committed, engaged, and motivated to succeed.

With encouragement and individualized support, Khalil regularly participated in the Newcomer Job Search Café. He received interpretation support and one on one assistance to help him fully engage with workshops and employment preparation activities. Through job development support, Khalil was connected with a local employer and began a six week placement as a general labourer. From the start, he demonstrated reliability, dedication, and a strong willingness to learn.

During the placement, CES worked collaboratively with the employer to ensure Khalil could successfully complete required workplace training, including health and safety certifications. With interpretation support, Khalil was able to fully understand the training and meet workplace standards. The placement was successful, and Khalil was offered continued employment. His commitment and strong work ethic made a lasting impression on his employer.

Khalil’s journey highlights the impact of wraparound support and strong collaboration between the client, employer, and community services. Through perseverance, support, and opportunity, Khalil has taken meaningful steps toward stability and independence in his new community.

Reflecting on his experience, Khalil shared, “Thank you for all your help and support. A heartfelt thanks as well to the entire CES team for the continuous support and services they have provided to my wife and me since our arrival in Canada. Their doors have always been open whenever we needed assistance, and because of that, we truly feel at home.”

An experienced accountant, Nataliia regained stability through credential recognition, training, and persistence.

Nataliia arrived in Canada from Ukraine in May 2024, seeking safety and stability during a time of conflict in her home country. With a strong professional background in accounting, Nataliia was highly motivated to rebuild her career in Canada. However, language barriers and limited local connections made the job search challenging. After being laid off from her position due to funding changes, Nataliia found herself feeling discouraged and uncertain about her next steps.

After connecting with Community Employment Services, Nataliia received individualized employment and settlement support focused on helping her overcome these barriers. With CES assistance, she began the credential recognition process by having her education documents translated and submitted for evaluation. Recognizing the importance of communication skills, Nataliia was also supported in accessing English language training, including workplace communication courses, ESL classes, and additional language support to help build confidence.

As she continued developing her skills, Nataliia participated in employment preparation programs and completed relevant certifications to expand her career options. She also engaged in volunteer opportunities and newcomer events to gain Canadian experience, strengthen her resume, and rebuild her professional network. Throughout this time, Nataliia received encouragement and guidance to remain focused and resilient.

With preparation and persistence, Nataliia began attending employer hiring events with the support of CES. Following an interview at the Career Expo, she was offered a full time position with a food manufacturing employer and began her new role in October. This milestone marked a successful return to stable employment after a challenging year of adjustment and uncertainty.

Nataliia expressed heartfelt appreciation for the support she received and shared that the guidance and resources provided played a critical role in helping her regain confidence and move forward.

After challenges finding work, Omolara turned her experience into a successful home daycare business.

Omolara arrived in Canada from Nigeria in June 2024 and settled in Oxford County as a refugee claimant. With no Canadian work experience and after months of unsuccessful job searching, she found it challenging to gain traction in the local labour market. In Nigeria, Omolara had been self employed, running a small diaper business, and she hoped to find a way to rebuild her career in her new community.

Determined to move forward, Omolara connected with Community Employment Services and actively participated in a range of employment preparation activities. She attended the Newcomer Job Search Café, interview skills workshops, and employer connection events. With CES support, her resume was shared with potential employers, and she completed several training opportunities to strengthen her employability, including workplace communication, health and safety certifications, and food related credentials.

As Omolara continued exploring her options, she reflected on her strengths and previous experience and began considering self employment once again. With guidance and encouragement, she pursued her goal of opening a licensed home daycare. Omolara enrolled in a business development program, began the licensing process, and accessed wraparound settlement support to help her navigate each step. While working toward her goal, she also gained local work experience as a lunch supervisor at an elementary school.

After months of dedication and preparation, Omolara successfully completed the licensing requirements and officially opened her home daycare. With additional community support, she was able to purchase essential start up items to welcome her first clients. Reflecting on her journey, Omolara shared her gratitude for the guidance and encouragement she received as she turned her dream into reality.