Applications closed

This session of Choices has already started. We are no longer taking applications. You can apply for other learning and employment options on our Programs page. Follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram for new program alerts and announcements.

Explore career and training options

The Choices program includes assessments and enjoyable activities that will help you plan your next steps. Workshops, site visits to other programs, and guest speakers allow you to explore training and career options you might not have realized were possible.

Develop work and life skills

You’ll gain life, employability and job search skills, build financial literacy, and learn about employment standards and rights at work. Training in time and stress management strategies will help you learn how to cope with challenging situations at home and at work. Program content is flexible and is adapted to meet the needs of each group.

Supportive small group format and 1:1 counselling

Small group activities and workshops are delivered part-time. An hour a week is set aside for one-on-one coaching and counselling to give you the individual support you need to make good choices for your life and work. When you have completed Choices, you can move on to employment, upgrading, further education, a job training program, or a volunteer placement.

Time, cost and location

  • Free program
  • Delivered both online and in-person
  • Core program runs for 12 weeks, with 6 months of post-program support
  • Workshops are 2.5 hours long and are offered four times a week.

Eligibility

This free program is available to Ontario Works recipients. You will need a referral from your caseworker. (Some exceptions may apply depending on space available.) You must be 19 or older, and have been out of the labour force for a period of time, or never have worked, and would benefit from extra support in planning next steps.