Employment Services
Where Support Meets Opportunity
Participants successfully join the workforce with the guidance of vocational counselors providing tailored career support at every stage of employment. For individuals facing additional barriers, such as limited work experience or accessibility needs, the program provides specialized guidance and resources to ensure equitable access to employment opportunities. Our vocational counselors empower job seekers to build confidence, develop marketable skills, and secure sustainable employment.
Vocational Counselors
How We Help
Our vocational counselors work closely with each participant to understand their career goals, strengths, and challenges, offering tailored guidance every step of the way.
Some services we offer include:
- Resume and cover letter help
- Interview training
- Practical skill development
- Engaged support for employee and employer at the start of the working relationship
- Ongoing, needs-based support for participants throughout the duration of their working career
Skill Development
Employment Workshops
Alongside personalized one-on-one support, our Employment Services team delivers group workshops. These multi-day training sessions are designed around skills that many clients want to build, creating a collaborative and practical learning experience.
Some workshops include:
- Interview Training
- Practical Skills
Five Stages of Employment Services
We meet for the first time to gather key information and do an initial employment assessment.
We dive into personalized career discovery, talking about client goals and employment desires, creating a customized Employment Plan.
Assess if clients would like to attend some formal training and develop skills. We will also assist with updating your resume, perform mock interviews, talk to employers and help with job application.
Once a client is hired, we attend orientation and work shifts until they feel settled. We make sure clients know how to get to work, learn how to use public transportation if needed, and how to report income to MPSD.
When clients are independent in employment we will check-in regularly. We’ll check in on any changes, such as wage, hours, or learning new tasks. Once a year we will review employee rights and renew consents. If any support is needed, we are available to help.
Who we work with
Our team maintains strong relationships with local employers, creating opportunities that align with each person’s interests and abilities. Beyond job placement, we offer ongoing support to promote long-term success, stability, and growth in the workplace.
Employers we have worked with include:
The Goals
Skill Development
Vocational counselors work with participants to develop both practical job skills and essential soft skills ensuring they are fully prepared to succeed in today’s workplace.
Long-Term Employment
Ongoing support, skill development, and career resources leads to participants finding job satisfaction and long-term employment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What times are the vocational counselors available?
Employment Services vocational counselors are available Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM.
Where is Employment Services located?
Employment Services has a home base at the Vancouver Island Technology Park.
Do participants receive one-on-one support?
Yes — each participant receives one-on-one support from our team. Our staff work directly with each participant to understand their individual goals, provide personalized guidance, and offer tailored assistance throughout every stage of their employment journey.
What types of supports and services are offered?
Our team offers support to both the employee and the employer throughout the working relationship.
Supports and services for the participants include:
- Resume and cover letter help
- Interview training
- Practical skill development
- Engaged support for at the start of the working relationship
- Ongoing, needs-based support for participants throughout the duration of their working career
Can the program help me find a job in my specific field?
Our vocational counselors can help you find a job in your specific field. We work closely with participants to understand their skills, experience, and career goals, and leverage our connections with local employers to identify opportunities that align with your professional interests.
Access Our Services
It all starts with Community Living BC (CLBC), the provincial crown agency. They work with individuals, families, service providers and other key members on an individual’s care team to determine funding eligibility and provide options. The Garth Homer Society is partially funded by Community Living BC, and almost all of our clients are referred to us through their services.
Determining Fit
Each individual’s journey at Garth Homer begins with a conversation around what it is that they would like their life to look like. This conversation is how we determine which program is the right fit for each person.
Our programs bring together peers with shared interests and needs, fostering real connection and belonging. Every plan is personalized, flexible, and built around the individual, ensuring each person is never just placed into a preset program, they help create it.
Programs don’t define people, people define the programs.
What’s Happening in Employment Services
Learning and Employment
Day programs and life supports focused on building community, independence, and personal growth through post-secondary learning, employment, and life skills.