LAUNCHING IN FALL OF 2024

Y Works (Windsor and London)

Skills building and employment support for youth and young adults. 
  
Y Works is an employment program that assists youth and young adults ages 15-30 to overcome barriers of employment. Our program delivers a range of activities that help youth overcome barriers to employment and develop a broad range of skills and knowledge in order to participate in the current and future labour market. Over a 5-week period we provide individual and group-based support that include employability skills building workshops. Upon completion, we connect participants with a paid job opportunity or with appropriate courses and training opportunities in a field of their choice. For those entering the workforce, an additional 12 weeks for tailored support are provided to both participants and their employer to promote long-term success. 

Program Structure: 

Week 1-5  
Group and individual based employment preparation assistance for 32.5 hours per week, wherein participants will be paid an allowance equivalent to the minimum wage per hour. 

Week 6-17  
Paid job opportunity with tailored supports provided to both participants and employer; or assistance with enrollment into academic/training course(s). 
  
Offered Supports:

We tailor our supports specifically for your success which can include*: 

  • Transportation
  • Child care
  • Professional mental health support 
  • Living allowances 
  • Work-related material and supplies
  • Completion bonus
  • Employment and academic advice
  • Interview preparation 
  • Networking
  • On-the-job supports for participants and employers

*Supports vary based on program, approvals, and case-to-case basis.

Apply Now

Employers

If you are a community partner, organization, or employer that is interested in establishing a partnership with YWorks, please fill out the following inquiry form and an Employment Specialist will contact you.

Employer Form

Are you located in Windsor or London?

General Inquires

YMCA of Southwestern Ontario Y Works Program 
382 Waterloo St, London, ON
519-667-3300 x 2038
yworks@swo.ymca.ca