The Archway Skills Training Results in Directed Education and Employment (STRIDE) program has adapted their services during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The program, which helps unemployed or under-employed people over 55 find suitable employment, is now running as a combination of online/tele-consults and in-person services.
The program first started offering virtual services in March, when they realized they couldn’t safely offer their employment workshops and one-to-one services in person as normal.
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“There have been some hurdles with online learning, but, in some ways, the experience is perfect training for the modern workplace,” said Frank Amadasun, program supervisor.
“For those without access to a computer, we’ve been creative with socially distanced meetings and phone calls.”
Enrolment is now open for the next session running June 1 to 26.
“While our clients face an uncertain job market, we’ll be helping them choose career paths that take into account the current in-demand jobs,” Amadasun said.
STRIDE provides participants with short-term certification training, work experience, occupational skills training and wage subsidies.
The program is free for job seekers and employers and is funded by the BC Ministry of Advanced Education, Skills and Training through a workforce development agreement with the federal government.
Those interested in joining the next class session can call 604-557-3690 or visit Archway.ca/STRIDE for more details.
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