Navigating today’s job market can be daunting, especially for those facing unique barriers. At Wood’s Homes, we’re dedicated to helping individuals overcome these challenges and achieve meaningful careers through employment programs such as LEAD (Linking Employment, Ability, and Development). Since 2016, our partnership with the Safety in Schools (SIS) Foundation has played a vital role in this mission by equipping job seekers with essential safety certifications and the confidence they need to succeed.
This collaboration is a natural extension of the work we do at Wood’s Homes through the LEAD program. By offering certifications that cater to a wide range of industries and skill levels, the SIS Foundation empowers job seekers to overcome barriers and add valuable qualifications to their resumes. Together with LEAD employment counsellors, these courses provide tailored support, enabling participants to build skills that open doors to meaningful opportunities.
One such participant, Tim, is an example of the impact of this collaboration. Tim’s mental health began to decline after the devastating loss of his older sister – who was caring for him – to a drug overdose. Although he was placed with a caring foster family, his life felt uncertain, and he struggled to find his direction. Through the Transitioning to Adulthood Program (TAP), Tim was referred to Wood’s Homes and connected with the LEAD program at our Inglewood Opportunity Hub.
Tim is a bright, personable young man who recently earned his high school diploma. Despite this milestone, he felt overwhelmed by the next steps and lacked confidence in starting his career. With support from his LEAD employment counsellor, Tim began building his resume by earning certifications in Food Safety and the Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System. These certifications, made possible through our partnership with the SIS Foundation, gave Tim both qualifications and a boost in self-assurance.
Initially, Tim’s challenges with grief and mental health made it difficult to stay motivated. However, with patience, understanding, and encouragement, he found his footing. When Tim was ready to start his job search, his LEAD counsellor helped him practice his elevator pitch and drove him to various businesses to distribute his resume. With each interaction, Tim grew more confident. His persistence paid off when he received a job offer from a local drug store – a moment of triumph that marked the beginning of his journey to independence.
At Wood’s Homes, we strive to create welcoming and safe spaces where individuals like Tim can connect, grow, and thrive. The LEAD program-SIS Foundation partnership supports this commitment, helping us meet participants where they are at so they can take control of their career paths. Together, we’re not just helping people find jobs, we’re also empowering them to take charge of their lives and build brighter futures.
Our partnership with the SIS Foundation serves as a model we believe in and highlights the power of community-focused collaborations. We’re excited to continue this impactful work alongside the SIS Foundation, creating lasting change and inspiring success for the individuals we serve.
To learn more about LEAD click here or contact [email protected]
