May Newsletter
Long-term Success for Karen – Working with Shopper’s Drug Mart since 2021
Karen knows that landing a job is just the first step. She had worked before joining the Shopper’s Drug Mart team, but there was something about this place—and this position—that just clicked. Now, as she chats comfortably with her regular customers, there’s a confidence in her voice and a knowledge that has grown over her time with the company.
When Karen was working with YES Employment Coordinator Brenda Richtig, she had some barriers to overcome. Health issues that surfaced during COVID required ongoing medical appointments and created uncertainty around her job search. However, in December 2021, Brenda connected with Leanne Jarvis-Dowson at the Shopper’s Drug Mart in Northwood to discuss Karen’s qualifications and skills.
They didn’t know it at the time, but this conversation would lead to long-term employment for Karen—and a solution to a retention challenge for Leanne.
Routine tasks and thorough training were key to Karen’s success. Leanne offered onboarding that focused on Karen’s aptitude for numbers, and the fit was immediate. Karen loved the job and the people. She quickly became an integral part of the team. Four years later, she’s training new cashiers and remains a customer favourite.
Karen credits Brenda for recognizing her potential and for connecting her with an employer who understood the importance of her ongoing health care. Leanne’s willingness to accommodate paid off—earning her a loyal, capable, and dedicated team member with strong bookkeeping skills and a solid work ethic.
Most people hope to find a role where they can grow, learn, and earn a paycheque. That’s our focus at YES, too. Working with one of our Employment Coordinators gives you the chance to reflect on your experience, assess your skills, and apply your strengths to local opportunities available right now.
If you’d like to work with our team, contact us to request an appointment.
Employers are also looking for staff who enjoy the work and are likely to stay. Retention is one of our goals as well. Businesses can connect with our Employer Relations Coordinators to find qualified staff of all ages and experience levels. Contact us to get started.
Move Forward with IM&M
IM&M+ is a dynamic, strengths-based program that empowers individuals to reconnect with their potential, build resilience, and take actionable steps toward a fulfilling future. Whether goal is personal growth, education, volunteering, or employment, this program gives individuals the tools to identify strengths, set achievable goals, and follow through on them. Our next cohort begins on June 2nd. Contact us to refer a client or to apply.
Community Engagement
Top left: The YES wellness committee decided to collect food donations in April. Staff members who donated received a chance to win some special Easter baskets. The result was about 22.5 pounds of non-perishable food which our team donated to the Regional Food Distribution Association. Thanks to the committee for putting a community focus on this April event!
Middle right: YES exhibited at FWFN’s Job Fair on Saturday April 26th. We enjoyed engaging with so many job seekers from the community!
Bottom left: Thanks to Matawa Education & Care Centre for inviting us to participate in the Transition to Life in Post-Secondary Service Fair in the Agora at Lakehead University on Tuesday May 6th. The idea to have the students ask pre-composed questions worked so well to engage the students. It was a great morning of connections.