“I got a job and that is what it is all about!”

Gordie was used to walking onto a job site and handing in his resume directly to the employer to get the jobs he wanted. However, when he finished his last janitorial position he knew he was going to have to switch up his job searching methods because many companies had switched their recruitment processes to an online platform.

He started accessing a public computer lab but quickly realized he was not going to be able to navigate the job search process on his own, and that he needed support. Simply getting logged onto a computer was not enough, he was not sure how to scan job sites, send his resume to employers or fill out online applications. That is when his friend told him about the Core Neighbourhoods at Work (CNAW) program at Quint. 

The CNAW program takes a relationship building approach and commits to seeing individuals meet their goals. Through one-on-one support with an Employment Coordinator, Angel, Gordie identified his struggles with computers and they worked together to create a plan that would develop his digital literacy. Gordie was committed to developing these skills and visited the resource room frequently to practice. He is now able to independently job search, update and email his resume to employers.

“I appreciate how patient and available Angel was with me.  No matter how many times I asked the same question she always answered it with patience and kindness. Working with Angel has opened up a whole range of opportunities for me.” These opportunities include being connected to the YWCA to further enhance his computer skills, to Saskatchewan Polytechnic about a computer-programming course, and within Quint to Kayla, who in her employer relations role works with employers to create direct job opportunities for CNAW participants.

Kayla was able to connect Gordie directly to an employer where he gained employment with a local commercial cleaning company. “Quint has other ways and means of communicating and connecting with people and as a result I ended up with a job.” What was originally a temporary position, has been extended into other contracts with the company and he is thankful to be able to pay his bills again.

“The program was very helpful because now I have a job and earning some money and I am back in the workforce.”