Searching for Newcomer Employment Programs

Job Finding Club for Immigrants (JFCI) connects job seekers with people, support, and information needed to move into the Canadian workplace, participants will receive:

• employment related workshops
• job search assistance
• professional networking experience
• assistance to connect with a Mentor in their sector
• one professional networking session that is organized during week 5 in the evening
• Participants should have child care in place (do not provide on-site care) and appropriate work clothing to meet with employers
• may be able to provide assistance with transportation costs, please inquire if needed

COVID-19 -- in-person service at all Job Skills locations by appointment only -- call ahead; support continues to be available online or by phone

programs and services being delivered by phone, email or online, where possible

wide range of online workshops to support employment needs available

Employment programs and services to assist job seekers, including youth, newcomers, older workers and persons with disabilities

• e-learning opportunities, online and in-person workshops, virtual and in-person coaching, motivational interviewing
• services to assist business start-ups and employers
• resources, supports and information and referral to meet employment and business needs
• customized services to help employers meet specific labour market needs, including recruitment, placement and retention, and financial supports for hiring

COVID-19 Update: in-person and walk-in service has resumed; virtual services are still available

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Bridging Services:

• offered online and provide internationally trained professionals with customized job search training, workplace communication, labour market information, credential assessment, referrals/placements and mentoring connections
• for individual bridge training programs, see separate listing for Ontario Bridge Training Program

Online Job Search Centre

• articles, resources, webinars, interactive games and videos to help find work
• topics covered include resumes, interview preparation, networking, the job market, career self-assessment and workplace success

Pre-arrival services for newcomers preparing to immigrate to Canada

• Canadian Employment Connections provides sector-specific training and job search support for individuals approved to move to Canada

Entrepreneurship Connection and Entrepreneurship Connections Pre-Arrival

• provides support for newcomers interested in starting a business in Canada
• pre-arrival stream helps entrepreneurs who are approved to move to Canada, build a network and start preparing to open a business before they arrive

Job Search Workshop (JSW) -- for new immigrants and convention refugees, legally entitled to work in Canada

• 3, 4 or 5 day job search techniques workshops, covering labour market information, access to trades and professions, resume preparation, networking
• extensive individual assistance

Bridge to HR Online is not accepting new applicants at this time; if you would like to be contacted once the program resumes, please send an email indicating your name and contact information to bridgetohr@jobskills.org; you will be added to the list and notified regarding the program in the near future

COVID-19 -- in-person service at all Job Skills locations by appointment only -- call ahead; support continues to be available online or by phone


National online bridging program for internationally trained Human Resources Professionals

• preparation for employment in Canada's HR industry with current HR practices and terminology
• webinars with facilitator-led discussions
• forums for networking and sharing job opportunities
• personal work plan to track progress
• ongoing coaching and job search supports to find placements and employment

Support and training for internationally trained individuals with child care credentials or experience looking to work in a licensed child care facility in Ontario

• 4 week online education and skills training sessions and job search strategies

Child care industry-specific certifications include:

• Standard First Aid
• Emergency Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), including infant and child CPR
• Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) training
• Food Handler training

COVID19 -- contact individual centres for service updates; services available by phone, email or video; call 1-877-761-1155 or email info@welcomecentre.ca for more information



One-stop service to guide and support immigrants and newcomers

Settlement and Integration Services

• needs assessment, Information and referral to community and social services including support with finding housing, child care, registering children in school, health care, legal information and government services and benefits

LINC (Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada) upon assessment by Achēv -- see separate entry

• language skills training in English for work or studies, Canadian culture, settlement and employment information

Enhanced Language Training

• 13 week, sector specific language training and career orientation
• individual counselling and action plan development
• volunteer placement, mentoring, networking, resume and interview preparation

English as a Second Language -- adult English for life and work in Canada, part time and full time options

Employment Supports

• needs assessment and individual action plan with one to one coaching
• pre-employment workshops, information on accreditation and qualifications
• Job Search Workshops program
• walk-in job search centre with access to computers, Internet, fax, photocopier, telephone
• staff assistance available, resource materials, job boards, labour market information
• transportation reimbursement and childminding available to eligible individuals

Other Services

• Older adults exercise program
• Mother Goose songs, rhymes and stories for parents, caregivers and their children
• newcomer family workshops, health workshops

Partnership of five immigrant serving community organizations: COSTI Immigrant Services, Catholic Community Services of York Region (CCSYR), Centre for Immigrant and Community Services (CICS), Job Skills, and Social Enterprise for Canada

Helping newcomers build a strong and vibrant community through settlement services

• one-on-one settlement services with an assigned settlement worker
• group programs: information and orientation to life in Canada, mental health and well-being, informal language learning for children and adults
• translation and interpretation; notary public services
• refugee sponsorship

JumpStart -- vocational counseling; connecting skilled or internationally trained professional newcomers to employment with job placements, mentorship opportunities, volunteering and networking connections in their preferred fields

Community Connections -- group activities for newly arrived immigrants and refugees of all ages to help orient them to their new community and establish social and professional networks

COVID19 -- contact individual centres for service updates; services available by phone, email or video; call 1-877-761-1155 or email info@welcomecentre.ca for more information



One-stop service to guide and support immigrants and newcomers

Settlement and Integration Services

• needs assessment, Information and referral to community and social services including support with finding housing, child care, registering children in school, health care, legal information and government services and benefits

LINC (Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada) upon assessment by Achēv -- see separate entry

• language skills training in English for work or studies, Canadian culture, settlement and employment information

Enhanced Language Training -- 13 week, sector specific language training and career orientation

• individual counselling and action plan development
• volunteer placement, mentoring, networking, resume and interview preparation

English as a Second Language -- adult English for life and work in Canada, part time and full time options

Employment Supports

• needs assessment and individual action plan with one to one coaching
• pre-employment workshops, information on accreditation and qualifications
• Job Search Workshops program and walk-in job search centre with access to computers, Internet, fax, photocopier, telephone, staff assistance available, resource materials, job boards, labour market information

Transportation reimbursement and childminding available to eligible individuals

Other Services

• Professional Networking Café
• study groups and networking groups for internationally educated professionals
• seasonal tax clinic

Partnership of five immigrant serving community organizations: COSTI Immigrant Services, Catholic Community Services of York Region (CCSYR), Centre for Immigrant and Community Services (CICS), Job Skills, and Social Enterprise for Canada

COVID19 -- contact individual centres for service updates; services available by phone, email or video; call 1-877-761-1155 or email info@welcomecentre.ca for more information



One-stop service to guide and support immigrants and newcomers

Settlement and Integration Services

• needs assessment, Information and referral to community and social services including support with finding housing, child care, registering children in school, health care, legal information and government services and benefits

LINC (Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada) upon assessment by Achēv -- see separate entry

• language skills training in English for work or studies, Canadian culture, settlement and employment information

Enhanced Language Training -- 13 week, sector specific language training and career orientation

• individual counselling and action plan development
• volunteer placement, mentoring, networking, resume and interview preparation

English as a Second Language -- adult English for life and work in Canada, part time and full time options

Employment Supports

• needs assessment and individual action plan with one to one coaching
• pre-employment workshops, information on accreditation and qualifications
• Job Search Workshops program and walk-in job search centre with access to computers, Internet, fax, photocopier, telephone, staff assistance available, resource materials, job boards, labour market information

Transportation reimbursement and childminding available to eligible individuals

Managed by a partnership of five immigrant serving community organizations: COSTI Immigrant Services, Catholic Community Services of York Region (CCSYR), Centre for Information and Community Services (CICS), Job Skills, and Social Enterprise for Canada

Employment resources and coaching to find sustainable employment in Ontario

• assessment of skills, interests and abilities
• job search strategies and support, including resume development and interview preparation
• information about careers and occupations, local labour market, employment opportunities
• help in maintaining employment
• information and referral to other employment and community services

All services at this agency/site can be tailored to meet the needs of individual client groups including: Indigenous peoples, Older workers, Persons with disabilities, Persons on social assistance, Immigrants/newcomers, Francophones, Students, Women and Youth

Better Jobs Ontario Program -- skills training and financial support for laid-off workers

Services for employers -- help in identifying human resource skills requirements

• matching of workplace needs to workers' skills, capabilities, interests and experience
• support for developing on-the-job training plans and monitoring of placements to support retention

Canada-Ontario Job Grant -- financial support for individual employers to purchase training for their employees

• available to small, medium and large businesses planning to deliver short-term training for existing or new employees

Newcomer support ministry

• helps with arranging temporary accommodation
• assistance with documents and applications
• orientation and job search
• volunteer opportunities
• located at an English and Arabic speaking Congregation at Chapel Place Presbyterian Church, Arabic Presbyterian Church in Canada

COVID-19 Update: in-person and walk-in service has resumed; virtual services are still available

-------------------------------------------------------------------
Bridging Services:

• offered online and provide internationally trained professionals with customized job search training, workplace communication, labour market information, credential assessment, referrals/placements and mentoring connections
• for individual bridge training programs, see separate listing for Ontario Bridge Training Program

Online Job Search Centre

• articles, resources, webinars, interactive games and videos to help find work
• topics covered include resumes, interview preparation, networking, the job market, career self-assessment and workplace success

Pre-arrival services for newcomers preparing to immigrate to Canada

• Canadian Employment Connections provides sector-specific training and job search support for individuals approved to move to Canada

Entrepreneurship Connection and Entrepreneurship Connections Pre-Arrival

• provides support for newcomers interested in starting a business in Canada
• pre-arrival stream helps entrepreneurs who are approved to move to Canada, build a network and start preparing to open a business before they arrive

Job Search Workshop (JSW) -- for new immigrants and convention refugees, legally entitled to work in Canada

• 3, 4 or 5 day job search techniques workshops, covering labour market information, access to trades and professions, resume preparation, networking
• extensive individual assistance

PROGRAM CURRENTLY SUSPENDED -- check website for updates

COVID19 -- Beginning April 25, 2022, in-person services resume BY APPOINTMENT ONLY; remote service by telephone, video-conferencing and email continue to be available during regular office hours


For internationally trained tradespersons

• Electricians (construction maintenance and industrial)
• Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanics (HRAC Mechanics)
• Industrial Millwrights (Industrial Mechanics)
• Plumbers

Trade-specific technical skills training and upgrading for licensing and accreditation to work in Ontario

• technical and workplace language training
• certification exam preparation
• employment counselling and job search strategies
• work experience placements
• mentoring and networking

On-the-job training incentives for employers available

Job search assistance for new and recent immigrants

• pre-employment training
• job search coaching, practice sessions and networking events
• assistance to develop resume, cover letter and interview skills, support applying to job postings
• training to use social media for job search

COVID19 -- contact individual centres for service updates; services available by phone, email or video; call 1-877-761-1155 or email info@welcomecentre.ca for more information



One-stop service to guide and support immigrants and newcomers

Settlement and Integration Services

• needs assessment and Information and referral to community and social services including support with finding housing, child care, registering children in school, health care, legal information and government services and benefits
• youth, women and older adults programs and services

LINC (Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada) upon assessment by Achēv -- see separate entry

• language skills training in English for work or studies, Canadian culture, settlement and employment information

Enhanced Language Training for Accounting and Financial Professionals -- 13 week sector specific language training and career orientation

• individual counselling and action plan development
• volunteer placement, mentoring, networking, resume and interview preparation

English as a Second Language -- adult English for life and work in Canada, part time or full time options

Employment Supports

• needs assessment and individual action plan with one to one coaching
• pre-employment workshops, job search assistance with resumes, cover letters, job search tips and interview coaching
• information on accreditation and qualifications
• Job Search Workshops program and walk-in job search centre with access to computers, Internet, fax, photocopier, telephone, staff assistance available, resource materials, job boards, labour market information

Transportation reimbursement and childminding available to eligible individuals

Other Services

• appointments with York Regional Police
• assistance to find or maintain housing, eviction prevention, Tuesdays, in partnership with The Housing Help Centre (see separate entry)

Managed by a partnership of five immigrant serving community organizations: COSTI Immigrant Services, Catholic Community Services of York Region (CCSYR), Centre for Information and Community Services (CICS), Job Skills, and Social Enterprise for Canada

Job search and career planning support for unemployed or under-employed newcomers

• services provided online to individuals wishing to job search independently or for those seeking additional job search assistance
• individual support and coaching
• labour market information
• resumes, practice interviews, and networking advice
• job postings
• access to computers, internet, telephone, fax and photocopier
• referrals to other settlement supports, language classes and accreditation information
• job development, retraining, apprenticeship and mentoring opportunities
• financial incentives may be available

COVID-19 -- in-person service at all Job Skills locations by appointment only -- call ahead; support continues to be available online or by phone


Open to all York Region residents legally able to work in Canada

• 3 week hands on job search program that includes job search tools, developing resumes, cover letters, cold calling, interviews, social media and networking, Canadian workplace norms and values, communication and people skills
• ongoing coaching as participants transition to the workplace
• currently delivered virtually

COVID19 -- services may be available virtually, no walk in service

Employment programs including resume and cover letter writing, job search training, interview skills and mock interviews

Reduce Abuse and freedom from violence projects

• counselling services for families
• group sessions and workshops at various locations

Aging at Home recreational, cultural and educational services for seniors
Youth summer programs such as recreational activities, leadership development, intergenerational activities for computer skills and gardening recreational programs for youth

Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC)

• English classes upon assessment by Achēv -- see separate entry
• childminding may be available for attendees with children
• weekend classes

Settlement Services

• assistance filling out government forms, translation and interpretation of documents, documentation for supportive housing applications
• counselling, information and employment services including orientation to Canada, citizenship information and workshops, job search workshops and help with resumes, cover letters and referrals for mentoring

EarlyON Child and Family Centre -- see separate listing

Multi-service agency

• settlement services including permanent residency and citizenship assistance, government housing services
• ESL Classes
• family and individual counselling
• employment services
• recreation and social activities including trips, festivals, Farsi classes, Seniors day for Farsi-speaking seniors, music lessons, computer classes, cultural events

Health care labour market integration program for internationally educated professionals (IEPs)

• program delivered online
• focus on providing alternative career paths in non-regulated health care sector, where certification may not be required, to support entry into Canadian labour market
• 8 month program includes overview of Canadian workplace values and expectations
• sector specific language training/health care terminology and communication
• job search techniques and strategies
• work placement
• virtual employer networking events
• linking with experienced health care professional mentor
• ongoing coaching and job search supports

Assists highly skilled internationally trained immigrants (ITIs) gain equivalent work experience in Ontario

• regulated occupation (for example, nursing, engineering, etc.)
• non-regulated occupation currently in demand, such as information technology, financial services

Integration and Settlement Program -- needs assessment, pre- and post-arrival information and referral, assistance to establish social and professional networks to promote community engagement, and assistance to access a range of settlement services

Employment support and entrepreneurial support program

• job search and employment counselling
• group activities including integration circles, job matching
• job needs assessment, support to build social and professional networks helping economic and social integration

Connexions communautaires (Community Connections)

• group activities for newly arrived immigrants and refugees of all ages to help orient them to their new community and establish social and professional networks
• trained and experienced volunteer mentors assist, with focus on citizenship and civic engagement or skills and career development

PIDEF / TÉE (Settlement in French-Language Schools Program)

• settlement services in French-language schools
• outreach program based in elementary and secondary schools from mid-August to end of June, and in libraries and social service agencies from July to mid-August
• Host Program for matching foreign trained professionals with peers

COVID19 -- contact individual centres for service updates; services available by phone, email or video; call 1-877-761-1155 or email info@welcomecentre.ca for more information



One-stop service to guide and support immigrants and newcomers

Settlement and Integration Services

• needs assessment, Information and referral to community and social services including support with finding housing, child care, registering children in school, health care, legal information and government services and benefits

LINC (Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada) upon assessment by Achēv -- see separate entry

• language skills training in English for work or studies, Canadian culture, settlement and employment information

Enhanced Language Training -- 13 week, sector specific language training and career orientation

• individual counselling and action plan development
• volunteer placement, mentoring, networking, resume and interview preparation

English as a Second Language -- adult English for life and work in Canada, part time and full time options

Employment Supports

• pre-employment workshops, information on accreditation and qualifications
• SOAR (Skills, Opportunities, Action plan, Resources) -- Office Administration Employment Training- help low and moderate income earning immigrant women to enter the job market, especially in office/administrative work
  • 6 weeks of virtual training on developing computer skills/ job search strategies/soft skills
  • one-on-one job search coaching
  • 4 weeks placement with potential employers
  • connection to employment opportunities
  • call to arrange intake interview and pre-screening assessment
• individual action plan with one to one coaching
• Job search workshops program and walk-in job search centre with access to computers, Internet, fax, photocopier, telephone, staff assistance available, resource materials, job boards, labour market information

Transportation reimbursement and childminding available to eligible individuals

Other services

• youth workshops, homework club
• parenting workshops
• seniors' social club, wellness group

Partnership of five immigrant serving community organizations: COSTI Immigrant Services, Catholic Community Services of York Region (CCSYR), Centre for Immigrant and Community Services (CICS), Job Skills, and Social Enterprise for Canada

One-stop service to guide and support immigrants and newcomers

Settlement and Integration Services

• needs assessment, Information and referral to community and social services including support with finding housing, child care, registering children in school, health care, legal information and government services and benefits

LINC (Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada) upon assessment by Centre for Achēv -- see separate entry

• language skills training in English for work or studies, Canadian culture, settlement and employment information

Enhanced Language Training -- 13 week, sector specific language training and career orientation

• individual counselling and action plan development
• volunteer placement, mentoring, networking, resume and interview preparation

English as a Second Language -- adult English for life and work in Canada, part time and full time options

Employment Supports

• pre-employment workshops, information on accreditation and qualifications
• SOAR (Skills, Opportunities, Action plan, Resources) -- Office Administration Employment Training- help low and moderate income earning immigrant women to enter the job market, especially in office/administrative work including
  • 6 weeks of virtual training on developing computer skills/ job search strategies/soft skills
  • 2 weeks one-on-one job search coaching
  • 4 weeks placement with potential employers
• connection to employment opportunities
• call to arrange intake interview and pre-screening assessment
• individual action plan with one to one coaching
• job search workshops program and walk-in job search centre with access to computers, Internet, fax, photocopier, telephone, staff assistance available, resource materials, job boards, labour market information

Transportation reimbursement and childminding available to eligible individuals

Other services

• youth workshops, homework club
• parenting workshops
• seniors' social club, wellness group

Partnership of five immigrant serving community organizations: COSTI Immigrant Services, Catholic Community Services of York Region (CCSYR), Centre for Immigrant and Community Services (CICS), Job Skills, and Social Enterprise for Canada