Pathways to Purposeful Employment

Build Skills – Find Purpose – Step Forward

About the Program

Pathways to Purposeful Employment offers structured, supported work experience for adults in the Cariboo Chilcotin who are ready to build skills, gain confidence, and explore what comes next. Whether you are new to working, returning to work after time away, or simply looking for a way forward, this program is designed to meet you where you are.

Each placement runs up to 240 hours and comes with mentorship, training, and wrap-around support. Participants receive a stipend of up to $3,600 alongside their existing income or disability assistance, which continues uninterrupted.

This opportunity is funded by the United Way Work Experience Opportunities Grant and is open to individuals who receive or are eligible for BCEA / PWD (or federal equivalent for on-reserve) and who may face barriers to employment.

How It Works

Pathways to Purposeful Employment is built around real work in a real workplace, with the supports you need to succeed.

1. Get in touch. Send a résumé, give us a call (250-305-4330), or drop by in person. There is no formal application process to start the conversation.

2. Find your fit. Our team will talk with you about your interests, goals, and any supports you might need. Together you will choose a placement from one of six roles across CMHA Cariboo Chilcotin programs.

3. Start your placement. You will work alongside a team member who acts as your mentor. Training is provided, and optional certifications are available where they make sense for your goals.

4. Build what comes next. You will leave with practical skills, a professional reference, a stronger résumé, and a clearer sense of direction.

Six Placements. One Path.

You will choose one of the following placements based on your interests and goals. Each comes with mentorship, training, and the supports you need to succeed.

Administrative Assistant

Front office support, scheduling, records, and digital skills in a welcoming team environment.

Activity Support Assistant

Help plan and run group programs including crafts, recreation, and community connection at our Clubhouse.

Community Outreach Assistant

Learn alongside our outreach team, supporting resource navigation and trauma-informed community work.

OHS and Maintenance Assistant

Support workplace safety practices and facility upkeep across CMHA Cariboo Chilcotin sites.

Purchasing and Inventory Assistant

Build organization and procurement skills supporting supply management across programs.

Shelter Assistant

Learn shelter operations including donation coordination, supply organization, and supportive service environments.

Who Can Apply

You do not need previous experience to apply. To be eligible, you must:

• Currently receive BCEA (Income Assistance, Disability Assistance, Hardship Assistance, or PPMB), or an equivalent federal assistance program
• Be legally eligible to work in British Columbia
• Be currently unemployed
• Be willing to participate in a structured placement
• Provide one piece of eligibility documentation dated within the last 60 days

Successful applicants will complete a Criminal Record Check, which may include the vulnerable sector.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I lose my income or disability assistance if I join? No. Your BCEA, PWD, or other assistance continues alongside the Pathways to Purposeful Employment stipend. The stipend is exempt from BCEA deductions.

Is this a job? Pathways to Purposeful Employment is a structured work experience placement, not employment. Participants receive a stipend, not a wage or salary, and are not considered employees under the Employment Standards Act. Completion of a placement does not guarantee employment.

What if I have never worked before, or it has been a long time? That is exactly who this program is for. No previous experience is required, and our team will work with you at your pace.

What if I face other barriers, like transportation or equipment costs? Wrap-around support is part of the program. We can help with transportation, personal protective equipment, and other practical needs as they come up.

Can I choose my placement? Yes. You and our team will choose a placement together based on your interests, goals, and fit.

Do I need to bring anything to get started? A résumé is helpful but not required. To confirm eligibility, you will be asked to provide one piece of documentation dated within the last 60 days that shows you currently receive BCEA, PWD, PPMB, Hardship Assistance, or an equivalent federal assistance program.

Ready to Take the First Step?

We are happy to meet you where you are at. There is no formal application required to start the conversation. Send us a résumé, give us a call, or drop in to say hello.

Tina Rogers

Email: Tina.Rogers@cmhacariboo.org

Phone: 250-305-4330

Address: #201 – 35 Second Avenue South, Williams Lake, BC

Important Information

Participants receive a stipend. This is not a wage or salary. Participants are not considered employees under the Employment Standards Act. Completion of this placement does not guarantee employment.

This opportunity is funded by the United Way Work Experience Opportunities Grant and is open to individuals who receive or are eligible for BCEA / PWD (or federal equivalent for on-reserve) and who may face barriers to employment.

Funded by the Government of Canada and the Province of British Columbia. Delivered by United Way British Columbia.