Learn. Grow. Thrive.
Since 1976, YMCAs across BC have worked with thousands of individuals in a variety of different government-supported employment programs. Through our programming and facilities, the YMCA of Greater Vancouver has established trusted, working relationships with a range of employers in the business community.
Get the knowledge and skills from trusted experts to find a job, learn a new skill or make Canada your new home. See below for more information on available programming.
Are you under the age of 30? Explore our Youth Employment programs for access to additional training opportunities.
Employment Services Programs
Childcare Career Exploration
Learn about the different pathways to becoming a certified Early Childhood Educator (ECE) and see if working with early-years children is the right career path for you.
Who is this eligible for this program?
- Ages 18+
- Those eligible to work in Canada. You are a Canadian citizen, Permanent Resident, confirmed Refugee or in Canada under CUAET measures.
- Those who are unemployed or under-employed, currently working fewer than 20 hours per week
What participants should expect:
- Cost: Free
- Length: 10-week program
- Participants will:
- Learn best practices for working with children aged 0 to 5
- Better understand the different pathways to become a certified ECE
- Receive one-on-one educational planning, resume writing and communication support
When and where is the program offered?
- Program Type: In-person at
Robert Lee YMCA
955 Burrard St., Vancouver, BC - Hours: One three-hour session per week, typically on Friday mornings, Saturday mornings or Thursday evenings.
- Next Program Intake: TBA
Click below to get in touch with us!
connections@gv.ymca.ca
WorkBC Self Employment
Launch your business and earn while you learn! This program guides you to create a business plan and launch your business with confidence.
Who is eligible for this program?
- Ages 18+
- Those eligible to work in Canada. You are a Canadian citizen, Permanent Resident or confirmed Refugee
- Those who are unemployed or under-employed, working fewer than 20 hours per week
- Active EI, reachback or disability designation
- Residents of the Lower Mainland, Sechelt and Squamish
What participants should expect:
- Cost: Free
- Length: 48-week program
- 10 weeks of Business Plan Development
- 38 weeks of Launch & Implementation Support
- Participants receive:
- One-on-one and group business coaching
- Weekly living allowance
When and where is the program offered?
- Program type: Online
- Hours: TBD
- Next program intakes:
- June 27, 2022
- Sept. 26, 2022
- Nov. 28, 2022
- Feb. 13, 2023
Click below to get in touch with us!
cindy.quinones@gv.ymca.ca
Self Employment for Newcomers
Through group workshops and private business coaching, we help you develop your business plan and learn how to launch your business in Canada!
Who is eligible for this program?
- Ages 19+
- Those eligible to work in Canada. You are a Canadian citizen, Permanent Resident or confirmed Refugee
- Those who are unemployed or under-employed, working fewer than 20 hours per week
- Have been in Canada for fewer than five years
What participants should expect:
- Cost: Free
- Length: 10-week program
- Participants receive:
- Business plan development, the process to launch their business and learn Canadian business practices. Participants will gain confidence, knowledge and the ability to become an entrepreneur in Canada.
- One-on-one coaching, digital literacy and ESL support
When and where is the program offered?
- Program type: In-Person at
Impact North Shore Centre
123 East 15th St., North Vancouver, BC - Hours: Typically Monday to Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
- Next program intake: TBA
Click below to get in touch with us!
YGV-SEForNewcomers@gv.ymca.ca
NEW! YCafe Training Program
Start your career in the food-and-beverage industry! During this 12-week journey, you will gain hands-on work experience in a real café setting, learn new skills, earn sector-specific certifications and connect with employers eager to hire you. In addition, you get paid while participating!
The program starts July 4! Click below for more information and to learn how to apply today!
Our Funding Partners
Thank you to our partners helping to make the YMCA of Greater Vancouver's Employment Services programs possible!
