Employment centre renos complete
London Community News
By Mallory Clarkson/London Community News/Twitter: @MalloryClarkson
A popular employment resource centre located downtown London was officially re-opened Wednesday (Sept. 26) after an extensive renovation that broke down barriers for those looking for work.
It's not just the obstacles job seekers face when writing resumes or looking to access Internet or information, but the Skill Centre Employment Resource Centre (141 Dundas St.) itself could be seen as its own barrier. But, with walls being town down between reception and computer areas, as well as some new work spaces being created, WIL employment Connections and Youth Opportunities Unlimited (YOU) — who operate the skills centre — are now in an open-concept facility.
“We shared this resource because as a drop-in facility, we wanted to have it open to anybody of any age group, any clientele,” said Steve Cordes, YOU executive director.
WIL’s clientele is predominately new Canadians and YOU services youth looking for work. But, for people who don’t fall into those categories, the new design of the facility won’t impede their search.
“For those that wander in and don’t suit any of our clienteles who just want to sit down and use a computer, conduct a job search from here, the resource should be there for them without the structures of our organizations getting in the way,” Cordes said.
For Jonathan Jamieson, the renovation to the facility is significant. He added he has seen many positive changes over the last 10 years he’s frequented the skill centre.
“It helps young people realize they have potential to do what other people may not think they can do,” he said. “Regardless of whoever they bring in, it’s a positive influence on the youth and gives them that motivation to strive for success.”