September Newsletter
From In-Motion and Momentum+ to Employment Service-Finding Success
Dennis has become a familiar face at YES. Friendly and outgoing, he quickly connected with staff, and his engaging personality had everyone routing for him. He first worked with YES to secure a maintenance job, but some health challenges meant that the timing wasn’t quite right. When Dennis was ready to return to work, he came back to YES and enrolled in the In Motion & Momentum+ (IM&M+) program.
Unlike many pre-employment programs that focus only on jobs or training, IM&M+ starts by meeting people where they are. It helps participants move from feeling stuck to setting meaningful goals by recognizing their strengths and building on them. Through group activities and projects, participants gain both confidence and direction.
Dennis wanted to rebuild his knowledge and motivation before re-entering the workforce, and IM&M+ gave him that foundation. As part of his group’s community project, Dennis helped raise money for the Canadian Children’s Asthma Society at the Thunder Bay Busker’s Festival. The group had a booth at the event, and Dennis enjoyed working with his peers while contributing to a good cause.
By the end of the 10-week program, Dennis was energized and ready to get to work. He began working with Workforce Empowerment Coach Summer MacDonald to explore opportunities aligned with his long-term goals through the Employment Service program. While Dennis hopes to complete his OSSD and eventually move into construction work, he wanted to start by getting a foundation of experience he could build on.
When Roach’s Taxi was looking for cleaners and detailers, Dennis immediately showed interest. Detail work comes naturally to him, and he enjoys the satisfaction of cleaning vehicles and sending them out ready for the road. Summer and Employer Relations Coordinator Matthew White set up an interview with the business. It went well, and Dennis landed the job. He has now been with the company for little over a month. He appreciates the laid-back, supportive atmosphere and he is really enjoying being part of the team. Congratulations, Dennis, on finding your momentum!
Employment journeys look different for everyone. Some job seekers need a lot of support, others only a little. No matter where you’re starting from, YES has programs to help you reach your career and training goals. For those who need to re-engage, build motivation, and set goals, IM&M+ can be the perfect first step. The Employment Service program provides support for job seekers of all ages and skill levels who are focused on employment or training in any field. Personal assistance to pursue your career goals is free through Employment Ontario programs. Request an appointment online, call or visit to get started.
Community Engagement
The YES Wellness Committee helped students in need get ready for the school year by collecting supplies just in time for the first day of school. The committee decided to lend a had with United Way’s “Stuff a Bus” initiative. A big YES shout-out to all the staff members and clients who donated back to school items! Click here for more information about this initiative: https://uwaytbay.ca/event/stuff-a-bus/
We are so grateful to the City of Thunder Bay for inviting us to participate in community events over the summer and in to September. The Youth and Family Support Program sponsored the Superior Sizzle Summer BBQ Tour, an initiative that is bringing food, fun, and community spirit to six priority neighbourhoods across the city! These events gave us an opportunity to engage directly with community members and share information about our programs and services.
As part of the City’s commitment to community safety and well-being, we were also invited to participate in a Community Pop-Up Series designed to help all of us listen, connect, and co-create the next version of Thunder Bay’s legislated Community Safety and Well-Being (CSWB) Plan. These Community Pop-Up’s added greatly to our summer engagement with community members. It was a pleasure meeting you all and we look forward to the September events still to come!
Testimonial alert. We are so grateful for all of the local businesses who work recognize the value of the programs we deliver. Visit the Employer information page of our website to read the Multicultural Association’s full testimonial. Take advantage of the Employment Ontario programs that can help you recruit, onboard and retain staff!