A regional organization is providing some light at the end of the tunnel for area residents struggling with unemployment.
The Fergus branch of Northern Lights Canada (NLC) attended the Nov. 13 Mapleton council meeting to provide information about services available to the local community.
While Mapleton residents are welcome to access a wide range of services and assistance through the Fergus branch, the organization does provide services on an as-needed at the Drayton library, for those who have trouble making it to Fergus.
Northern Lights staff also travel to the Independent Learning Centre in Arthur to meet with clients.
Local Northern Lights team leader Theresa Shyu said NLC provides services to employers, as well as workers.
“We’re helping people who are looking for work, but we really do help employers as well,” by providing assistance with applicant screening and other services, said Shyu, adding that all services provided by Northern Lights are free to employers and job seekers.
It’s all part of their mandate to “help people and organizations develop to their potential by providing counsel, education, resources and connections, in a caring, respectful and professional manner.”
Northern Lights offers individual assessments by employment counsellors for: goal setting, training options, career exploration and apprenticeships.
Centre staff will also help with preparation of applications for re-education programs like Employment Ontario’s Second Career program.
Workshops are also provided on a regular basis on topics ranging from career decision-making, to writing of resumes and cover letters.
Literacy and basic skill programs are also provided, as are initiatives targeted at older workers.
The NLC Employment Resources centre also offers free computer and internet access, faxing and photocopying and a resource library for use by job seekers.
More information on Northern Lights Canada can be found at www.northernlightswcanada.ca/fergus.
