FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
FEBRUARY 2, 2010

New Program Connects Skilled Workers with Employers
S.U.C.C.E.S.S. collaborates with Douglas College and Tri-Cities organizations to assist internationally trained human service workers gain employment

Coquitlam, B.C. – S.U.C.C.E.S.S., one of Canada’s largest multi-level service providers, offers a newly created program to internationally trained human service workers called Tri-Cities Intercultural Workplace Project. The project is a collaborative training program with Douglas College and more than 12 human service organizations in the Tri-Cities designed to assist internationally trained human service workers find employment in their field.

Kelly Ng, Family & Youth Services Program Director at S.U.C.C.E.S.S. took a lead role in getting the program funded. Ng stated that the creation of the program is a direct result of too many qualified internationally trained human service workers not able to find work in their field. “This program will act as a bridge for people, so they are able to gain Canadian work experience and develop a network of contacts.”

The learning component involves a 5 month full time program that combines advanced English language work-based skills and hands on Canadian work experience within a Tri-Cities human service organization. Participants will increase their awareness of business culture in the professional human services workplace, develop an understanding of idiomatic and workplace language and increase their knowledge of the Canadian human services field. Kathy Bell, the Douglas College EASL (English as a Second Language) teacher for the course added that “Students will gain confidence and skill in how to communicate as educated professionals, as they develop their language skills, cultural understanding and self- assurance.”

The program is open to internationally trained human service professionals with documented credentials and experience. Applicants must be Tri-Cities residents who are Permanent Residents or Canadian citizens and have an assessed intermediate level of the English language.

This innovative project is made possible through funding from  the Province of BC’s Welcoming and Inclusive Communities and Workplace Project (Immigration and WelcomeBC Branch, Ministry of Advanced Education and Labour Market Development). Participating agencies/organizations include: Act II Child & Family Services Society, City of Coquitlam, Coquitlam Public Library, Douglas College, Immigrant Services Society of BC, Ministry of Children & Family Development, Place Maillardville Community Centre, PLEA Community Services Society of BC, School District #43 (Coquitlam), SHARE Family & Community Services Society, Simon Fraser Society for Community Living, S.U.C.C.E.S.S., Tri-Cities Women’s Resources Society, and Westcoast Family Resources Society.

Founded in 1973, S.U.C.C.E.S.S. is one of the largest social service providers in British Columbia with over 20 locations and 2 overseas offices. For more details please visit http://www.success.bc.ca/.

-30-

Contact: