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Employment, Life Skills & Training (ELST)
About the Program
The Employment, Life Skills & Training (ELST) Program at the Nawican Friendship Centre empowers Indigenous and non-Indigenous community members on their journey toward meaningful employment and personal growth. We take a holistic, culturally grounded approach that recognizes each person’s unique strengths, experiences, and challenges—understanding that finding and maintaining employment involves more than just having a resume. If you’re entering the workforce for the first time, returning after time away, looking to upgrade your skills, or exploring new career paths, our experienced team provides personalized support tailored to your goals. From career counseling and job search assistance to skills training and educational guidance, we work alongside you to build confidence, develop practical abilities, connect you with opportunities, and address any barriers that may be holding you back.
How to Get in Touch
Location:
10200 17 Street, Dawson Creek, BC V1G 4C2
Office Hours:
Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Contact:
April Tom
Email Address:
a.tom@nawican.ca / nbycc@nawican.ca
Phone Number:
ELST Services
Career Counseling & Planning
One-on-one career counseling sessions help you explore your interests, identify your strengths, and develop a clear path forward. We’ll work with you to:
- Create a personalized action plan
- Overcome barriers to employment
- Build confidence and self-advocacy skills
- Identify training or education opportunities
- Set realistic and achievable employment goals
- Assess your skills, experience, and career interests
Job Search Support
Finding the right job can be overwhelming. Our job search support helps you present yourself effectively and connect with employers.
- Cover letter development
- Job placement assistance
- Connections to local employers
- Interview preparation and practice
- Job search strategies and resources
- Workplace etiquette and professionalism
- Professional resume writing and formatting
- Follow-up support after securing employment
Skills Training Workshops
Build essential skills for success in the workplace and everyday life through our hands-on workshops:
- Conflict resolution
- Computer and digital
- Customer service skills
- Professional development
- Internet job search techniques
- Financial literacy and budgeting
- Email and online communication
- Workplace communication skills
- Time management and organization
- Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
Educational Support & Advocacy
Education opens doors. We help you navigate educational opportunities and overcome barriers:
- Tutoring connections
- Educational advocacy
- Educational institution liaising
- Study skills and learning strategies
- Post-secondary education planning
- Scholarship and bursary applications
- Assistance with enrollment processes
- Support for learners with diverse needs
- Information about adult education and upgrading programs
Life Skills Development
Success in employment and life requires a foundation of essential life skills:
- Stress management
- Transportation resources
- Health and wellness basics
- Problem-solving strategies
- Goal setting and achievement
- Building healthy relationships
- Self-care and wellness planning
- Housing search and tenant rights
- Childcare information and support
- Personal budgeting and money management
Employer Connections & Partnerships
We maintain strong relationships with local employers and businesses who value diversity and inclusion:
- Networking events
- Work experience placements
- Job shadowing opportunities
- Employer information sessions
- Industry tours and career exploration
- Direct connections to hiring employers
- Wage subsidy programs (when available)
Ongoing Support
Your success matters to us beyond the initial job placement:
- Retention support
- Peer support connections
- Continued skills development
- Career advancement guidance
- Workplace problem-solving support
- Regular check-ins after employment begins
- Access to other Nawican programs and services
Frequently Asked Questions
ELST services are available to all community members aged 15 and older. While our program has specialized cultural support for Indigenous peoples, we welcome everyone who is committed to improving their employment and life skills. There is no cost to participate.
Contact us by phone or email to schedule an intake appointment. During this initial meeting, we’ll discuss your goals, assess your needs, and create a personalized plan. You can also drop by our centre during office hours—we’re happy to answer questions and help you get started.
Bring any documents that might be helpful, such as past resumes, reference letters, educational certificates, or identification. However, don’t let lack of documents stop you from coming in—we can help you gather what you need.
There’s no set timeline—it depends on your individual goals and circumstances. Some participants achieve their goals within a few weeks, while others benefit from several months of skill-building and support. You can participate as long as you need our services.
While we cannot guarantee employment, we provide comprehensive support to maximize your chances of success. We have strong relationships with local employers and will connect you with opportunities that match your skills and interests. Our job placement rate reflects our commitment to helping you succeed.
Absolutely. We can connect you with adult education programs, GED preparation, and upgrading opportunities. Many successful careers don’t require a diploma, and we’ll help you explore all your options based on your goals.
We understand that barriers are real and significant. Part of our support includes helping you problem-solve around these challenges. We can connect you with transportation resources, childcare information, and other supports. We’ll work together to find solutions.
Not at all. We support people seeking full-time, part-time, seasonal, or casual employment. We’ll help you find opportunities that fit your life circumstances and goals.
Yes! Many of our participants are returning to work after extended absences. We’ll help you update your skills, build confidence, and present your experience effectively. Everyone’s journey is different, and we meet you where you are.
Definitely! We encourage you to take advantage of all Nawican programs that interest you. Cultural programs, counseling services, family support, and recreational activities can all support your overall well-being and success.
Yes. We follow strict confidentiality protocols. Your personal information and participation in the program are kept private unless you give us permission to share specific information (for example, with a potential employer or educational institution).