year ending march 31, 2010 microskills · 2012-01-30 · year ending march 31, 2010 microskills...
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Annual ReportYear Ending March 31, 2010
Mic
roSk
ills
Annual ReportYear Ending March 31, 2010
Mic
roSk
ills
Mission StatementCommunity MicroSkills Development Centre is a multi-cultural, non-profit, community-based organization committed to assisting the unemployed, with priority to women, racial minorities, youth and immigrants. Recognizing barriers that immigrants, racial minority, youth and women face in their efforts towards self-sufficiency, MicroSkills aims to enable them to participate more fully in Canadian society and assist them in acquiring the skills needed to achieve self-determination and economic, social and political equality
VisionOur vision is to help individuals build a better future.We will achieve this by:◘ Leading the way with quality and relevant
services to our clients.◘ Maintaining service excellence and integrity in
the way we conduct our business.◘ Continually developing and motivating our staff.◘ Continually growing and improving our programs.◘ Developing and maintaining relationships in the
community.
Core ValuesThese are our beliefs and principles that guide how we deliver our services, carry out our strategic vision, and guide the behaviour of our staff:◘ Service with Integrity, Respect and adherence to
the Code of Conduct◘ Accountability to All◘ Anti-Racist operating framework◘ Superior quality in our service delivery◘ Working together◘ Open Management Style which incorporates the
principles of Appreciative Inquiry◘ Achieving a balance in meeting the needs of all
our Stakeholders
Helping You Build A Better Future
Our Programs & ServicesCommunity MicroSkills Development Centre is a non-profit, charitable organization that has served communities in Toronto and surrounding areas since 1984. Our programs focus on developing clients’ skills, increasing their information base and facilitating opportunities for them to apply their skills and knowledge in the Canadian workforce. Our core program areas are:◘ Employment Services◘ Newcomer Services◘ Women Services◘ Youth & Children Services◘ Leadership & Community Development
These programs assist our client community to achieve economic self-sufficiency, active participation in community life and productive contribution to Canadian society.
About MicroSkills
“Vision without action is a dream.
Action without vision is simply
passing the time. Action with vision
is making a positive difference.”
Joel Barker
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Message From MicroSkills’ ChairLynda Schultz
Message From MicroSkills’ Executive DirectorKay Blair
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I am pleased to welcome you to our 26th Annual General Meeting.
MicroSkills services for 2009-2010 were designed and delivered to our client community with an acute awareness of the diversity of each individual’s needs. We continue to honour their immediate need to find employment so that they can support themselves and their families and contribute to their community.
This past year was an exciting year for us, and one that was equally challenging. We faced the economic downturn; government fiscal constraints impacted relationships within our sector; natural disasters and world economic fluctuations compounded the complexity of the service needs of our clients – all of which challenged our agency’s ability to foster a sense of hope in an environment of such uncertainty.
Nevertheless, we increased the number of clients served and expanded our service locations to improve access to our clients who seek to participate in our non-traditional and innovative programs. For fiscal 2009-2010 we served 26,094 clients and delivered over 92,000 units of service.
Our Employment Services outcomes for the year were affected by the economic downturn, with 60% – 79% of individuals who completed our various skills training programs obtaining employment. Recognizing this trend, we launched new programs and modified existing programs to respond to our clients’ needs and the demands of the labour market. We continued to experience a steady demand for our Bridging Programs for Internationally Trained Individuals (ITIs,) and our employment outcomes for these programs remained constant (70% – 82%).
Our Youth Services area experienced a successful year with many youth participating in several of our programs. Program staff have also been able to establish new partnerships to enhance the delivery of our services. Most significantly, we have seen an increase in demand for our homework clubs. However, we are disappointed that many youth needed to leave school to find employment to support themselves and their families as poverty continued to deepen for women and newcomers.
For the first time in many years, our Women Services area experienced some stability with the delivery of eight programs to low-income women. In particular, there was growing demand for our Access and Workplace Bridging Programs as both addressed the needs of isolated and vulnerable women through an itinerant delivery model and a focus on workplace essential skills and career planning. Additionally, we launched a new program, Women in Transportation, to offer women access to jobs as truck drivers in response to the growing demand for drivers across this sector.
This year, we launched a Women’s leadership initiative with a “Global Women’s Leadership Forum: Building Local Bridges for Success.” This forum brought together over 150 women of diverse backgrounds, empowering them to pursue leadership roles.
Our Newcomer Services area continued to experience increased demand. We saw a major demand for the HOST program and our expanded LINC programs. Similarly, we launched a new Job Search Workshop (JSW) program specifically for women as the original JSW program lacked a gender focus. Our primary settlement and support services surpassed its target as many newcomers needed assistance with basic services – housing, childcare and links to other community resources.
We are very proud of the outcomes achieved by our Community Development Program, specifically, our ANC project which aims to engage residents towards building healthy communities. Several of our residents participated in the Mayor’s Tower Renewal project through a photography project in partnership with the National film Board and presented their work at City Hall.
Our Job Development Program continued to expand its reach, engaging new employers to support graduates of our structured programs. Several employers are now actively participating in the delivery of our programs and continue to provide advice to support program modifications.
MicroSkills’ staff complement consists of 150, including full-time, part-time and contractual staff. Together they speak over 44 languages to support the delivery of culturally sensitive services to our client group. Our in-service volunteers continue to augment our programs and services, and this provides many opportunities to our clients including referrals to employment, mentoring and other supports.
As we review our service outcomes for fiscal year 2009-2010, we remain, as always, very thankful to the individuals, community partners, organizations, and corporations that have worked with us in a committed way to make a difference for our community’s most promising citizens. Our very sincere appreciation to everyone who has believed in what we’re doing and has contributed time, talent and support to furthering our vision.
As Chair, of the Board of Directors of MicroSkills, I am pleased to welcome you to our 26th Annual General Meeting.
As in the beginning, we remain motivated by a desire to create opportunities for our community’s vulnerable members to realize their potential, contribute to their communities in meaningful ways, and be fully recognized for their contributions.
Our vision is to help individuals build a better future. Since our inception in 1984 we have been leading the way with relevant, quality services to our clients. Our services support the economic advancement and social integration of newcomers, low income women, racial minorities, and, more recently, youth. 2009-2010 has seen a continued increase in demand for our services to vulnerable communities in a climate of fiscal constraints and a downturn in the economy. As board members of MicroSkills, we are an integral component to the agency’s success, as each board member has dedicated time and effort to the effective leadership of the organization and has supported the growth in programs and services. Additionally, members participate in staff and board development activities, and are active in workshops and seminars that enhance their
ability to provide effective stewardship and to develop an in-depth understanding of the issues and challenges impacting the clients we serve.
Board members, in maintaining their accountability as Directors, periodically evaluate their performance, and participate in sector specific training. This year at our annual retreat, we held facilitated governance training and following this retreat our board committees were restructured. The current Board Committees are:◘ Executive ◘ Audit and Risk Management ◘ Corporate Governance ◘ Fundraising◘ Nominations
With these committees in place the board is more able to carry out its work and be more effective in providing the strategic leadership required to achieve the organizations outcomes.
MicroSkills Board of Directors thanks everyone who contributed so much to support our programs and services. We could not sustain our commitment to our clients through the market challenges, without continued support from our corporate and community partners, funders, donors and friends of MicroSkills, who believe in what we do.
We are honoured to serve our clients and community and to work with such exceptional individuals and organizations as we build partnerships in the interest of our clients. We thank you for your continued support to our mission of helping our clients and our communities achieve their vision of a better future.
Brief History of MicroSkillsMilestones
2003-04Organizational review, new plan, new vision. Launched Home Childcare Self-Employment program to develop culturally sensitive childcare services. Began Bridging to Technology program for internationally trained women. Opened JobTrack Centre for displaced workers in the hospitality industry. Organized Job Fair.
2004-05Celebrated 20 years of service. Designated Training Delivery Agent site for IT Apprenticeship trades. Partnered with Humber College, school boards and City to deliver after school and pre-apprenticeship programs to immigrant and racial minority youth. Established West Toronto Women Services Network. Provided trusteeship and leadership to the North Etobicoke Revitalization Project.
2005-06Commenced delivery of Job Connect for Internationally Trained Individuals. Partnered with Toronto Community Housing Commission to deliver tenant engagement services and youth employment training program. Established Margot Franssen Women’s Leadership Award.Established advisory group to launch women’s leadership initiative.
2006-07Expanded women and newcomer services toNorth York/Scarborough, south Etobicoke. Expanded youth services: Bridge to Success program in partnership with North Albion Collegiate, youth exchange to Newfoundland, Youth Employment and Local Leadership program (YELL). Received the 2006 Minister’s Award for Excellence in Service Results (MAESR) from Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities. Developed agency 3-year strategic plan (2007-2010)
1984-85Incorporation. Began microfilm/office skillstraining for 6 immigrant women on Taber Road.
1986-90Relocated to 81 Kelfield Street. Expanded our training programs for immigrant and racial minority women. Received the Association of Records Management and Administrators Award for Innovation in Training.
1991-92Recognized as a settlement agency by Ontario government – Newcomer Settlement Program grant awarded – augmented our employment services.
1992-93Commenced Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) classes, and expanded services by providing community workshops to address issues of access and equity.
1994-95Celebrated our 10th anniversary – proclamation from City of Etobicoke marked 10th Year milestone. Opened Career Resource Centre for the unemployed. Awarded a contract to improve representation of racial minority individuals in apprenticeship. Began bridging program for women.
1995-96Capacity building – organization restructuring/funding diversification. Strategic plan. Secured United Way funds towards service expansion.
1996-97Continued program / service restructuring.Developed agency business plan. Launched self-employment program for women. Became United Way member agency.
1997-98Relocated to 1 Vulcan Street and continued service refinement. Opened Employment Resource Centre, with specialized services to immigrants. Began childminding services. Began evening and weekend extended service hours to increase access.
1998-99Continued service plan modification. Opened Women’s Enterprise and Resource Centre(WERC) for immigrant and racial minority women to support business operation. Established MicroSkills Entrepreneur Award for Women.
1999-00Established Women’s Technology Institute to increase women’s representation in IT related jobs. Developed and piloted language curriculum for foreign trained IT professionals.
2000-01Began Job Search Workshop (JSW) for Immigrants Program, ESL classes, Self-Employment program for immigrant women IT professionals. Developed new 5-year strategic plan.
2001-02Refined 5-year strategic plan. Began delivery of TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) preparation classes. Opened IT Resource Centre sponsored by UPS Canada. Hosted Women In Technology Forum. Established Corporate Spirit Award.
2002-03Opened satellite JSW program in partnership with Syme-Woolner Centre. Established a storefront Youth Centre in the Dixon-Kipling Neighbourhood. Launched Computer Camps for girls 11-15 years. Established loan fund for women entrepreneurs. Began Etobicoke Computer Access Partnership Project to increase public access to computers at immigrant serving agencies. Awarded 2002 United Way Community Spirit Award.
2007-08Opened new location in south Etobicoke to provide specialized services for women in partnership with a women’s shelter. Launched Women at Work partnership program to address employment needs of isolated women.Began Pathways to Employment for Newcomers (PEN) program. Established CH2M HILL Resource Centre. Received an honorable mention for TRIEC’s 2007 Immigrant Success award for inclusive HR practices. Received Minister’s Silver Award for Excellence in Service Quality from Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities.
2008-09Began new programs: Supply Chain Program, Host Program and Mentorship Program for newcomers; Modern Batik Art and Settlement Programs for Youth.Established MicroSkills Toastmasters Club.Opened Rexdale Action for Neighbourhood Change (ANC), part of United Way’s Building Strong Neighbourhoods Strategy. Awarded Scarborough Chamber of Commerce Business Excellence Award. Received COSTI’s 2008 Partner Award for Leadership in the Delivery of High Level Employment Services.Received Outstanding Service Provider Award from Tropicana Community Services.
2009-10 Registered as a Private Career College with MTCU.Opened new location in Brampton.Began new JSW program for Women and expanded LINC services.Began Green Economy project in partnership with Ryerson University.Provided trusteeship to Nia Centre for the Arts.Became operations lead for Rexdale ProTech Media Centre.Launched Women in Transportation program, training women as truck drivers.
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3-Year Strategic Plan (2007-2010)Outcomes
◘ Deliver programs and services employing a “one-stop” approach
Refined agency programs and services model – achieved integrated service delivery
Modified client intake, assessment and service delivery model to reflect changes driven by funders and the labour market
Established mentorship program for women Established Toastmasters clubs to support
program participants New programs developed to meet client needs
(e.g. HOST, leadership, trades, logistics, etc) – wider range of programs and services now available to women and newcomers, allowing us to serve clients with a wider range of professions and skills levels
Expanded Youth Services to include Rexdale Protech Media Centre and Nia Centre for the Arts
Expansion of mobile itinerant services increased access for isolated and vulnerable individuals
Increased the number of fulltime and part-time programs overall (e.g. doubled our LINC program and delivery facilities, women programs now include trades and apprenticeship – a shift to non-traditional programming)
Increased program delivery locations to respond to, and improve client access
Rebranded MicroSkills as a centre of excellence for women, newcomers and youth
b) Revenue Generation / Organization Sustainability
◘ Seek new markets to accelerate our income generating options
Generated over $80K in revenue from corporate training
Increased our trusteeship and generated over $100K
Grew restricted reserve to over $800K Annually generated over $160K in fundraising
Strategic Priorities
a) Continuous Improvement
◘ Extend links to educational institutions/systems (e.g. Humber ITAL) to enhance our program standards
Partnerships established with Humber College, Ryerson University, Humber School of Transportation, and Certified General Accountants of Toronto (CGA) for our women’s and newcomer programs; participants acquired access to more career options and recognized certifications
◘ Continuous improvement of our business processes to enhance productivity and maintain quality services
Developed and implemented Client Management System
Fully established HR department with policies and procedures consistent with sector standards
Financial systems developed and now provide analysis including capital asset management, and resource allocation
Standard templates in place to support programs and services in our marketing and outreach efforts
◘ Continuous development of our human capital (staffing) to enhance quality of service
Staffing levels increased from 70 -150 Invested $150K in enhancing the capability of
staff to support improved service delivery Implemented quarterly all-staff meetings to
support communication flow throughout the organization
Established senior team (leadership incubator) to support agency succession planning
Staff capacity in place to support agency program level
◘ Keep abreast of current technology trends in the marketplace and enhance our web presence
Linked all locations to centralized hub – improved access and reduced cost for telecommunication
Implemented online client registration system to support expedient and quality client service
Redesigned and launched our new website–improved look and feel increased traffic – average monthly visits over 5K hits
Implemented online donation system – generated over $5K
◘ Establish relevant advisory committees/boards to support our growth strategy and to identify new markets
Established new advisory committees to support programs and services (e.g. Newcomers, Supply Chain, Green Economy, Women Technology and Trades, women’s leadership)
Established volunteer program - recruited and placed over 100 new volunteers
c) Strategic Alliances
◘ Pursue strategic alliances with key stakeholders such as corporations, donors, alumni association, etc
Hosted first women’s leadership conference – over 150 in attendance
Increased our participation in Boards of Trade and Chambers of Commerce in Toronto, Brampton, Markham, - received community service award
Hosted annual employer appreciation breakfast
– participation increased by over 40% year over year
Increased our corporate partnerships (e.g. Woodbine, TTC, Go Transit , Staples Corporate Express, IBM, Microsoft, SVPT, Wired Women, Global, HOOPP, UPS)
Enhanced our ANC project with the National Film Board – raised profile of residents in local community
Participated in numerous government and sector consultations to raise the agency’s profile and to fulfill our mission
Agency profile enhanced through public education sessions and numerous presentations in various sectors
Strengthened links to mainstream, alternate, community and sector specific media (e.g. AMOI, Global TV, Supply Chain and Trucking)
The following is a summary of our key accomplishments during the period April 2007-March 2010.
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Programs & ServicesWomen Services
Total Clients Served: 5,489
Programs:◘ Women in Transportation (WIT)◘ Self-Employment Training (SET)◘ Workplace Bridging◘ Computer Training◘ Pre-Apprenticeship - Horticulture◘ Access Project - Itinerant Employment Services for
Women in Shelters and Isolated Communities◘ Home-Based Child Care (HCCP)◘ Information Technology Training for Women (ITTW)
Service Objective:◘ Improve the socio-economic conditions of women
to temper their deepening conditions of poverty
Client ProfileAging demographicMore than half of the women served in all of our programs were over 40, with a substantial number over the age of 45.
Countries of Origin for Structured Skills Training Programs30% of the women participating in our employment and self employment programs were Canadian born, many from first generation immigrant families.
Of the immigrant women who comprised about 70% of the women in all of our structured programs this year, overall, the largest numbers were from South Asia, the Caribbean, Eastern Europe and Latin America. Our programs also served women from Africa, South East Asia and the Middle East.
Mixed Levels of EducationWith the inclusion of more trades and apprenticeship programs, and the expansion of walk-in services and part-time computer programs, we served women with a greater diversity of skills and education levels.
High Levels of ViolenceAcross all of our programs, we saw an increase in the numbers of women who had experienced violence, had left abusive spouses, or were living with coercion and the threat of violence.
Service Highlights◘ We increased the number of full and part-time
programs over all as women were seriously impacted by the recession, and/or prolonged experiences of poverty and isolation.
◘ We also served women in more locations than in previous years with the expansion of our services to women in Brampton, and the increase in our mobile services to women in shelters and isolated communities.
◘ We increased our levels of service to the cohort of aging baby-boom women who are now experiencing unemployment after a lifetime in low-waged, physically strenuous work they can no longer sustain, who nevertheless must continue to work as they are without savings or pensions.
◘ We offered many women training in basic computer skills who had never encountered technology in their work history yet, upon job loss through layoff or other reasons, could not apply for jobs without the basic computer literacy provided by MicroSkills.
◘ We launched a new program, Women in Transportation, to offer women access to jobs as truck drivers in response to the rising demand for drivers and other roles in this sector.
◘ With the expansion of our trades programs we were able to offer more opportunities to women without post-secondary education and training to acquire industry recognized qualifications for well-paid jobs in the trades and non-traditional sectors presently dominated by men.
◘ For the first time this year, we were able to offer an employment training program targeted exclusively to women who had experienced violence to address the need of violence survivors for marketable skills and appropriate supports to manage the long term effects of violence.
Client B
Hello my name is AP. I would like to thank MicroSkills for giving me the chance to complete the Bridging Program. As a newcomer to Canada, I am very pleased to have accomplished studies in computer career. Thank you MicroSkills.
I would also like to give special thanks to Ms Fareeha for her guidance, when I wanted to give up; she would always encourage me; that gave me strength to complete this course. With all my trials in life, I am so thankful for Microskills.
Thank you to all MicroSkills staff who taught me and rendered their assistance when needed. Today, I am so happy that I’m computer literate and give thanks to the almighty God.
I’ve found housing through MicroSkills settlement worker Ms Rosaline. If it wasn’t for Ms Fareeha, I would not be living in my own apartment. MicroSkills is truly a dream come true to women.
Thank you MicroSkills from the bottom of my heart.
Client A
Thank you for taking the time to help me achieve my goals. I am truly touched and I am so grateful for this educational opportunity that I would not be able to afford if it was not for MicroSkills. It has only been a week and a half or just 14 hours of class time and I have already learned so much! I have learned how I as an individual learn with the True Colours game. I have been able to bond and share my story with my class during the Healthy Relationships discussion day. I have met with the women’s counsellor for just one hour of counselling time and discovered that…still needs healing. I am really looking forward to overcoming this challenge in the near future. I have picked up some amazing business attire from the F.A.C.E. Clothing Bank that will really allow me to succeed with a winning image! In addition to these accomplishments, I have also started reading the small business section of the Toronto Star, helping me to develop a strong business mind, and I have written out my long-term business goals. Now I am ready to learn how to write a strong business plan. I have contacted MicroSkills Women’s Employment Service at Lakeshore to learn in depth how to use Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint. Having the resource centre available with such a packed calendar of workshops is really helpful. Most important to me is having a leader like you, Indira, to inspire me and show me that I can achieve what I put my mind to! Thank you again for your dedication to the success of my goals and the goals of many other women.
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Client Feedback/Success Stories
Programs & ServicesNewcomer Services
1110
Client Feedback/Success Stories
Total Clients Served: 4,148
Programs:◘ Host◘ Job Search Workshops (JSW)◘ LINC◘ Settlement and Support Services
Service Objective:◘ Help newcomers become fully engaged in all aspects
of Canadian life – social, economic, political, cultural
Client ProfileThe profile of our Newcomer Services clients differed, depending on the geographic area in which service was delivered. However, a majority of the newcomers served this year were from India. Clients from South Asia, Central Asia and Middle East were represented as well. This is a general reflection of our North West quadrant catchment area. More than half of the newcomers who accessed our services were recent arrivals (in Canada one year or less). The majority of participants were highly educated professional newcomers. The largest occupational groups included Accounting, IT, Engineering, Business Administration & Management. In the last six months of the year, we noted that there was an increase in the number of self-employed individuals participating in the Host program. Below is a statistical profile of our newcomer clients:
Source Country 61% Asia [35% South, 23% East, 3% Central] 11% Africa 11% Caribbean 6% Middle East 6% Latin & South America 5% Europe
Level of Education 29% College or High School 58 % University 13% Post Graduate
Immigration Category 8% Government Assisted Refugees or
Conventional Refugees 34 % Family Class 58% Independent
Time in Canada 68% one year or less in Canada 32% more than one year
Service Highlights◘ This year, in our Host Program, we continued to
offer newcomers a warm welcome, along with opportunities to build friendships and learn about their new community through many trips and social networking events. Newcomers and volunteers expressed their satisfaction with the opportunity to participate in events that gave them a sense of community and belonging.
◘ 1,070 clients developed job search skills in the Job Search Workshop for Newcomers program. Newcomers assisted were internationally educated professionals, holding university degrees and professional certifications. Our clients demonstrated a high satisfaction rate with the program, with over 85% giving positive feedback on the feedback form given to them upon completion of the workshop, and providing positive comments on the effectiveness of the program in helping them find employment.
◘ In partnership with Rexdale Women’s Centre, we delivered an adapted model of Job Search Workshops for women for whom the traditional JSW program was not suitable. The program was adapted for women who struggled with English, had no prior work experience, and needed assistance to develop career goals. Our adapted model included the use of cultural interpreters, creating awareness of career paths and building skills through volunteering and adult education.
◘ 1,265 clients accessed English language training in LINC (Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada) classes levels 1-7. Our LINC program doubled this year, reflecting an increase in the number of classes offered in our North York location.
◘ English Conversation Circle (ECC), Business Communication Circle (BCC), and Speaking for Success were delivered on a weekly basis.
◘ 4,016 clients participated in Settlement workshops; 93% of clients surveyed indicated services received as good or very good.
◘ We offered Occasional Child Care Services for daytime, evening and Saturday workshops and clients were provided with TTC Tokens where needed to access our newcomer services from all of our sites.
Client A
I am pleased to inform you that I have started an IT role at Deloitte and Touche in Toronto. It’s a QA analyst position on a contract basis. I started initially as a volunteer on the 29th of March but I have been offered a 3 month contract starting from Monday. Just to say a big ‘Thank you’ for your part in our settling down and to let you know Felicia and I appreciate you a lot. Thank you very much Dunia for putting all of your heart into what you do. We will keep in touch.
Client B
(Annie and Jean): In August 2009, newcomer Annie and her Host volunteer Jean shared their successful story with OMNI TV. Annie was an entrepreneur before she immigrated to Canada. The first couple of months in Canada were extremely stressful for her. Due to lack of language skills, Annie felt deaf and blind. The Host program brought light to her life when she most needed it. With Jean’s guidance and encouragement, Annie gained her self-confidence back.
Last year, she started her real estate business in Toronto. Annie told us: “Most newcomers to Canada start from square one. But I was 100 steps ahead because I had Jean.” At the same time, Jean described her volunteer experience with the Host program as “the most wonderful”, because she made a difference.
Client C
Maria’s long time goal was to be able to help people, and make them happy; therefore, when back in Romania, she embraced the profession of a nurse. She immigrated with her husband and daughter, to Canada in 2008. Since she had never learned English; she enrolled in a level two LINC class at MicroSkills and registered her daughter in Childminding. She heard that MicroSkills helped newcomers find their meaning in life. “For over a year, I was able to learn in a pleasant environment, with friendly people, and good atmosphere. They supported me with TTC tickets for my transportation, and at every significant event, we celebrated together. This was also a great opportunity for me to meet new people, and make friends for life. Further on, my English improved considerably, and now I’m able to hold a conversation and write fluently.”
She went on to complete the Registered Practical Nurse (RPN) exam, and is currently working on call, as an RPN.
Programs & ServicesEmployment Services
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Client Feedback/Success Stories
Total Clients Served: 11,439
Programs:◘ Intake, Assessment and Case Management◘ Employment Resource Centre (ERC)◘ Job Connect (JC)◘ Ontario Works◘ Bridging (PEN, SCAPE, Green Economy)◘ Leadership◘ Mentorship
Service Objective:◘ Develop the skills of unemployed individuals and
accelerate their labour market participation
Client ProfileImmigration Status: The largest group accessing Employment Services were Newcomers to Canada (landed immigrants) with the largest groups served from South Asia, South-East Asia, Africa, and the Caribbean. We continued to see an increase in clients from the Middle-East. Also, unemployment levels continued to escalate, and our client base increasingly included Canadian-born.
Age: The majority of clients were in the age range of 30-44 or 45 years and over.
Experience: Most had worked in their field for over 5 years in their home country.
Gender: More men than women accessed this service area.
Experience with Unemployment:More than 40% of our clients were unemployed for more than 12 months. Several were at the end of their benefits and demonstrated a sense of urgency to find a job.
10% - 15% of our clients returned to further training to improve their employability.
Service Highlights◘ 5,036 participants participated in employment
workshops and we assisted 1,464 clients with their resume, cover letters and interview techniques. We delivered over 50 information sessions to clients seeking employment, and referred 684 clients to employment interviews with more than 80% being invited to a 2nd interview.
◘ We hosted 1 Community Information Fair with 13 agencies participating and held 4 networking events with employers and service users.
◘ We offered three Workplace Bridging Programs that connected internationally trained professionals with sector specific business and leadership training, and employment opportunities in growth sectors such as supply chain, warehousing, business, and IT.
◘ Clients of our Workplace Bridging programs accessed challenge exams in partnership with CGA, obtained certifications in Supply Chain functions, participated in tours to sector specific workplaces, and obtained placement and employment opportunities through this program.
◘ Through our Job Connect program, we provided customized employment and case management services to 494 clients and 114 clients were placed with employers where a stipend was provided to the employer.
◘ Overall we saw an increase in clients with experience as Medical Doctors, IT Technicians, Pharmacy Technicians, and Supply Chain Logistics professionals. In response, we targeted employers who offer employment in higher skilled occupations such as Microbiology, Medical Doctors, Lab Technicians, Engineering, Accounting, and Quality Assurance.
◘ 97% of participants rated our employment workshops as Good to Excellent and 96% of clients rated the Employment Services as Good to Excellent.
Client A
Client course evaluation stated, “The course demystified the so-called “Canadian Experience” obstacle and gave a deep insight into what the Canadian business environment is all about; presented penetration strategies and approaches to attain career stability in the Canadian job market. The high point was the adapt-x self-discovery framework, which helps one to get to know oneself better in order to know which organization to work with and what to look for in the job-search. This course is necessary for newcomers to Canada who have attained a reasonable point in their career and is a good leadership development resource for any manager.”
Client B
We of APICS Group 6 wish to thank John and Branko for your wonderful instruction and sincere dedication.....you all have just been awesome and actually made class enjoyable. We want to let you all know how great and inspiring you all are.
Finally a word of thanks for Karen and her staff without whose hard work, effort and unstinting support this class would not have come to fruition.
Participant receives certificate on upon completion of Leadership Training
Programs & ServicesYouth and Children Services
1514
Client Feedback/Success Stories
Total Clients Served: 1,018
Programs:◘ Settlement / Host◘ Education Supports◘ Leadership and Civic Engagement◘ Health and Wellness◘ Multimedia◘ Art and Culture◘ Pre-apprenticeship◘ Parent Engagement ◘ Employment
Service Objective:◘ Enable youth to participate more fully in Canadian
society by promoting skills development to achieve self-sufficiency
Client ProfileYouth Services served almost an equal number of males and females (48% vs. 52%) Consistent with the age groups served by our core programs, 84% of our clients were enrolled in or had graduated from high school, with the remainder participating in college, university and trades programs.
The top four languages that new clients reported remained consistent throughout the year: English (59%), Hindi (12%), Somali (3%) and Arabic (3%). Punjabi, Spanish, Twi and Vietnamese represented 2% and Dari, Hungarian, Tamil were at 1%.
Most of our new clients (58%) had been in Canada for three years or more. Only 11% of new clients had been in Canada for between 1-2 years and 19% of the clients we served had been in Canada for less than 1 year.
Half of our new clients were Canadian citizens (50%) and the second largest group was landed immigrants at 34%. Fewer than 10% of those served were visitors, government sponsored refugees, refugee claimants or individuals in Canada on work permits.
Service Highlights◘ Education support programs were the most
accessed program this year. There was an increase in the number of inquiries for academic and social support programs for youth aged 8-12 years of age. In addition, there was an increase in demand for education support programs for youth aged 13-18, especially newcomer youth. In response, Youth Services facilitated 4 homework clubs for 160 youth with 35 tutors.
◘ There was also an increase in the number of youth dropping out of school to obtain full time employment. A growing number of our newcomer youth are struggling to support themselves academically, and they are also facing pressure to support their families financially. In partnership with the YMCA, we provided employment support services to 30 clients per month.
◘ Male youth using our services have expressed dissatisfaction with police interactions. In response to this concern, Youth Services offered the Youth and Police Program, designed to dispel negative perceptions, increase positive interactions and build trusting relationships between police and youth in our community.
◘ Youth in our community are experiencing increased rates of obesity and diabetes along with a reduction in physical activity, nutrition and health awareness. In response, Youth Services offered a Health and Fitness Program serving 100 youth in two locations. Through this program, Youth were engaged in daily physical activity, cooking classes and health and wellness activities.
Client A
This is a story of a newcomer youth who emigrated from Lagos, Nigeria in 2006. Upon his arrival in Canada he faced many challenges such as learning the language, and adapting to the culture and the education system. In addition to all of these challenges, he was also socially isolated from his peers because of a slight hearing impairment.
This young man states “I found myself in a state which was comparably lower than that of my peers” when he first arrived in Canada. The reason for his low self-confidence was due to his lack of understanding of how to interact with Canadian youth. He was referred to the Boys Club and the Bridge to Success program by his teacher in order to get assistance with developing his language and social skills. Through the Bridge to Success Program he was matched with a tutor/mentor who understood his mother tongue, and could teach him the English skills he required. By participating in the Boys Club he began to develop appropriate social, communication and interpersonal skills that helped him boost his self confidence and make friends. He began to understand and adapt to Canadian culture and became comfortable to share his personal stories with staff and peers.
Over the years he has taken on a stronger leadership role and has been committed to volunteerism and self development. “Due to my experience at the Bridge to Success program I have found myself in a state of reaching out… I am proud of the obstacles that I have overcome and the knowledge I have gained.”
Youth participate in discussion forum
Programs & ServicesCommunity Development
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Community Development and Volunteer EngagementActivities
Total Clients Served: reached over 4,000 residents
Programs◘ Action for Neighbourhood Change (ANC)◘ Outreach and Resident Engagement◘ Resident Capacity Building◘ Resident Organizing and Planning◘ Partnership Development, Collaboration and
Advocacy◘ Resident Action Grant
Service Objective:◘ Help residents to plan and identify priorities to
improve their neighbourhood and link them to decision-makers.
Client Profile1. A high percentage of relative newcomers
residing in the neighbourhood: ◘ 19% have lived in the area less than 1 year ◘ 44% up to 3 years ◘ 31% have been residents from 4 – 10 years ◘ 6% unknown
2. High unemployment: ◘ Over 20% indicated they were unemployed ◘ 36% of those who have employment, work in the
neighbourhood
3. Lack of car ownership: ◘ Nearly 50% are without cars resulting in the
challenge of long walking distances ◘ Use of bikes is very minimal ◘ Local travel is very important
4. Large number of children reside in the area (under 14 yrs):
◘ Nearly 70% of households had at least one child
5. Outdoor Environment: ◘ A Lack of recreation facilities/play areas (unless
you live in the ‘condos’) ◘ Local parks are greatly appreciated ◘ ‘closures’ and ‘fencing’ describe the areas
around the buildings
Service Highlights◘ Residents completed 338 area surveys using the
United Way’s Resident Survey and a Jane’s Walk Walkability Study.
◘ 4,000 flyers were distributed to promote residents’ engagement in community activities.
◘ ANC hosted an Open House, Tower Renewal Summer Party, and Back To School Event, attracting approximately 500 people.
◘ The ANC team Hosted and/or conducted outreach for ten (10) Information sessions related to: National Film Board project, Tower Renewal, Home Childcare, and Quick Start – attracting 70 community members.
◘ The ANC team engaged 60 community members in four (4) forums: Neighbourhood Action Team; Humber Heights Resident Group; Local Immigration Partnership; Ontario Housing Strategy.
◘ 15 residents were trained as forum facilitators and 2 residents meetings were facilitated with 100 residents.
◘ Residents were supported in making application to the Tenants Board: 3 applications were completed.
◘ ANC worked with the Neighbourhood Action Partnership (NAP) table to increase civic participation by Rexdale residents, and collaborated with the Mayor’s Tower Renewal Project Team on tower outreach, engagement, and delivery of a local METRAC safety audit.
◘ ANC liaised with local schools: Highfield School and Enrichment Program (re:
Resident Action Grant Panel; Parent Advisory Council and Action Partnership Team)
North Kipling JMS /TDSB (re: Priority Schools Initiative)
Participants at the ANC/LIP Resident Community Forum
UPS volunteers at work at one of our locations painting and cleaning
Members of ‘Positif Kreyol’ perform at our 25th anniversary celebrations
Recognition of volunteers during International Volunteers Day andMicroSkills Volunteer Appreciation Day celebrations
Volunteer Engagement
The focus during the year was to continue building the volunteer services program, and develop strong relationships and alliances with corporations, and local and provincial volunteer umbrella groups. Volunteers have been instrumental in assisting us in meeting our service results in all MicroSkills programs and services.
During the year, we processed 202 on-line volunteer applications, facilitated 35 orientation and training sessions with 116 volunteers, and placed 70 volunteers within MicroSkills programs. Volunteers provided support services ranging from workshop facilitation, language conversation sessions, mentoring, administrative support, and participating as members of advisory committees.
Corporate Employer Engagement89 employees from 8 corporations were involved during the year in providing direct services such as painting, reading and activities with the children, mock interviews, resume tips, mentoring, and company tours. Corporate partners included: ◘ Deloitte ◘ Kraft Canada◘ Janssen-Ortho Inc.◘ Procter and Gamble◘ Royal Bank of Canada◘ The Hospitals of Ontario Pension Plan (HOOPP)◘ UPS◘ TD Bank
Volunteer ProfileProfessionals with training, education and work experience in the following professions: ◘ Finance◘ Business Administration◘ Marketing, Public Relations◘ Engineering◘ Research and Development◘ Information Technology◘ Teaching and Counselling Volunteer Hours & Value of Volunteer Services◘ Volunteers provided a total of 3,346 hours which can be estimated as a monetary contribution valued at $167,300
MembershipsMicroSkills maintains membership with the following volunteer organizations:◘ Volunteer Toronto◘ Toronto Association of Volunteer Administrators (TAVA)◘ Professional Administrators of Volunteer
Resources - Ontario (PAVR-O)
Volunteer Events Celebrated◘ National Volunteer Week◘ International Volunteer Day◘ MicroSkills Annual Volunteer Appreciation Day◘ Recognition of Centre of Excellence Advisory
Committee members
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Program ActivitiesWomen Services
Clients participate in our JSW Program for Women
Horticulture Technician Pre-Apprenticeship womentest driving tractor
December 6th 2009 National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against women: women participate in discussions
Landscape and Equipment Course at Humber College with the Horticulture Technician Pre-Apprenticeship women
Program ActivitiesNewcomer Services
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Program ActivitiesEmployment Services
Supply Chain Awareness Program for Employment (SCAPE) participants on their way to an employer tour - Manitoulin Group
Clients networking and waiting for employer interview
Guest speaker Carmen Jacques, Business Development Manager fromthe Certified General Accountants of Ontario (CGA) at our CGA
Networking Event
Ontario Tourism Education Corporation (OTEC) Service Excellence training Supply Chain Awareness for Employment (SCAPE) participants’ Graduation
Ceremony
LINC Level 2 – Preparing for our Spelling Bee!LINC participants: “Bus trips are fun! We are on our way to the Royal
Botanical Gardens.”
Job Search Workshop (JSW) participants LINC participants: “We have baskets and we’re ready to pick strawberries.”
Host volunteers appreciation event
Program ActivitiesYouth and Children Services
Agency AdministrationMicroSkills has a 17-member Board of Directors that sets the policies and strategic direction of the agency. The Board provides leadership to the Executive Director, who is responsible for managing the daily operations of the agency and ensuring that the client service and program priorities are on target.
Board members, in maintaining their accountability as Directors, conduct a periodic evaluation and hold an annual retreat. Following the Board Governance training sessions in Fall 2009, the Board committees were restructured. The current Board Committees are:◘ Executive Committee◘ Audit and Risk Management Committee◘ Corporate Governance Committee◘ Fundraising Committee◘ Nominations Committee
Board members are an integral force in the agency. Each Board member has dedicated time and efforts to the effective leadership of the organization. Members participate in staff and board development activities, and are active in workshops and seminars that enhance their ability to provide effective stewardship.
MicroSkills’ staff complement consists of 150, including full-time, part-time and contractual staff. Together they speak over 44 languages to support the delivery of culturally sensitive services to our client group.
Leadership and Management PhilosophyMicroSkills incorporates the practice of Appreciative Inquiry (AI) in its leadership and management of the organization. Appreciative Inquiry is a way of thinking, seeking, and acting for powerful, purposeful change in organizations. AI assumes that effective change happens when we identify and build on successes. It is our belief that to sustain our organization in an ever-changing world, we need to transform our thinking from traditional problem solving to success building.
Our Vision is grounded in the premise that we can help individuals to achieve the desired future they seek. Together, we can envision powerful images of ourselves and our organization that inspire our action and creativity, and nurture our spirit of innovation.
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Leadership and Management2009 - 2010
Leadership program, youth reading maps and clues to visit and learn historical sites in the city
Youth and Police program, youth participate in Sickle Cell awareness walk
B2S graduates at information session learning about university resources Children in our Childminding Program which supports our LINC program
United Way Days of Caring with our children’s program Youth participating in our health and wellness program
Board of Directors 2009-2010Front L to R: Maureen Henry (Secretary), Lynda Schultz (Chair), Leonard Serieaux-Halls, Laura WilliamsBack L to R: Willso Savage, Lekan Olawoye, Pamela Brewster, Kim Moseley, Donna Pascal, Marika Hare, Sarah Shortreed, Asha Maharaj, Karen Webb (Treasurer), Patricia Callon, Larissa Vingilis-Jaremko
Not in the picture: Cheryl-Dawn Merith (Vice-Chair), Karen Beech
Meeting of the Board of Directors
Milestones/Achievements 2009-2010 Milestones/Achievements 2009-2010
Youth Leadership Award recipients with their sponsors and MicroSkills Board
member
Members, Board, staff , clients, volunteers, and guests participate in MicroSkills 25th anniversary AGM
Board, staff and clients participate in MicroSkills 25th anniversary celebrations
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Staff and past service users in conversation with Jill Andrews
at our 25th AGM: “Looking Back, Looking Forward”
Paulette Senior, CEO, YWCA Canada, discussing leadership strategies
Opening plenary with Master of Ceremonies, Sabra Desai, Kay Blair, Executive Director,
MicroSkills, and Keynote Speaker,Hon. Jean Augustine
Donna Messer sharing her expertise in effective networking
Women leaders discuss their leadership style and journey
Hon. Mary Anne Chambers, former provincial minister, sharing her leadership journey
April 2009 May 2009 June 2009 July 2009 August 2009 September 2009
Lynda Schultz, Chair, MicroSkills Board of Directors, closing the Leadership Conference
Women participants in Leadership Conference
Milestones/Achievements 2009-2010
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Milestones/Achievements 2009-2010
MicroSkills staff, Hazel Webb (L) and Jane Wilson (R) receive Bhayana Family
Foundation Awards for Dedication and Leadership respectively, at an event hosted
by United Way
Executive Director, Kay Blair and Councillor Bob Callahan perform the ribbon cutting ceremony
MicroSkills Chair, Board of Directors, Lynda Schultz, receiving a plaque from Councillor Bob Callahan
Clients, staff and volunteers participate in International Women’s Day celebrations
MicroSkills celebrates Black History
month
October 2009 November 2009 December 2009 January 2010 February 2010 March 2010
Clients of our Brampton location
Brampton location officially opened in October 2009
Hazel Webb (L) and Jane Wilson (R) with Executive Director, Kay Blair at the
Bhayana Family Foundation Awards event
ThankYou
Government of CanadaCitizenship and Immigration CanadaDepartment of Public SafetyStatus of Women Canada
Government of OntarioOntario Ministry of Citizenship and ImmigrationOntario Ministry of EducationOntario Ministry of Health PromotionOntario Ministry of Community Safety and Correctional ServicesOntario Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities / Employment OntarioOntario Women’s Directorate
City of Toronto
United Way of Greater Toronto
FoundationsCanadian Women’s FoundationCP24 CHUM Christmas WishLaidlaw FoundationLeacross FoundationTides Canada / Social Venture Partners Toronto (SVPT)Trillium FoundationYouth Challenge Fund
Business/CorporationAcudor Acorn Ltd. ADT Security ServicesAdvance Tech Solutions Inc.Alterna SavingsArm Candy CasaArt Gallery of OntarioAvedian EnterprisesBAASS Business SolutionsBell CanadaBenemax Financial GroupBMO Financial GroupBoston PizzaCanadian Business for Social Responsibility Canadian Grocery HR Council Canadian Plastic Cards Inc.Canon Canada
Career Edge OrganizationCentral 1 CGA OntarioCH2M HILL CanadaChinese Ladies Golf Association Cole Customs BrokerageComputer Data Management/ Cheryl-Dawn MerithConsulting MatrixCrawford Chondon & Partners LLPCTV Limited Dell CanadaDirect Focus MarketingDivine Skin Therapy Wellness SpaEnbridgeEtobicoke GuardianFairlawn Avenue United ChurchFor Youth InitiativeGrand & ToyGrant Thornton LLPHome OutfittersHumber ITALIBM Canada Ltd.Insight CanadaIntegrated Communications SystemsJBM DESIGNJessie Eden productionsLeywaite MaintenanceLiaison College Lorraine Kimsa Theatre for Young PeopleM.J. Lawson Real EstateMaximum WomanMiax Project ServicesMicrosoft CanadaMinuteman Press, ScarboroughNational Ballet of CanadaPathways to PerennialsProvoq Inc.RIMRowntree Meals Limited Royal BankScotia Bank GroupSeneca CollegeSIS International ResearchSoftchoice CorporationStaples Corporate ExpressSYSCO Food ServicesTD Bank Financial Group
TeraGo NetworksThe Co-operators GroupTiger DirectToronto Hydro CorporationTransitional MattersUnited Food and Commercial Workers Local 175 & 633Wal-MartWestJetWoodbine Entertainment Group
Individual DonorsAdrian ZenwirtAftab KhalilAlexandra EdenAlireza Movahed-KiaAllan GiacomelliAnnette HeatheringtonAntoinetta PerettaAubrey CarregaBarbara Dudzinski Behrooz Bazhvand Bennett Nyame Biljana Rehak Boris P KaminskyjC.M KruitwagenCorrine HibbertDebora ClarkDebra RossDonna IhnatowyczDonna PascalDr. Kathryn ShieldsDr. Kirsty Duncan, MP Etobicoke NorthE. McNeeEric GarsonninGabriel Werunga George Agyei Hazel WebbIwanka and Joe IsabellaJames EdenJanet BellJasmine UriskJoana GyimahJuliet Allen Jun ValerioKaren McGregorKaren Webb Kawalie A. Maharaj
Kay Blair Keith Hernandez Kevin HollisLaura WilliamsLawren RahamLeonard Serieaux-HallsLisa LawlerLjiljana Odzakovic-PerutkaLou BraithwaiteLydia Renahan Lynda SchultzMadeleine LugosiManuela DomingosMargot FranssenMarika Hare & Geoffrey HareMarilyn CurtisMarsha Nelson-BromfieldMaureen HenryMelissa KronickMichelle ApollinaroMike & Suzanne FarleyMonica CallonMyroslawa and Michael DiakunNevlyn NicholsonNick and Maka ParzeiNicol KalmanPamela BrewsterParmod Kumar Ralhan Patricia MoorePaula LytwynPenelope Karanis Portia Branford Pranvera IsufajRakeea Lewis Rhoda Lalog Richard Whyte Robert & Mary Ruth WoodsRosalind Lai ChahalRossana Estevenez Rosemary SpeirsSamuel MakindeSasha-Kay GilzeanShayline LyttleSuzan Hall, Councillor, Ward 1Tanya KlyushkinaThelma AmosVera Krayeva
MicroSkills gratefully acknowledges the broad range of corporate, private foundation, government funders, sponsors and individual donors who have
supported our programs and services.
CommunityA.C.C.E.SAccess Alliance Multicultural Community Health CentreAlbion Neighbourhood Services and Albion Boys and Girls ClubArab Community Centre of TorontoArising WomenBarbra Schlifer Commemorative ClinicBathurst Finch Service Providers Network
Big Brothers and Big Sisters of TorontoCanadian Federation of University WomenCareer EdgeCareer FoundationCentre for Education and TrainingCity of Toronto: Mayor’s Tower RenewalCOSTICTI (Breaking the Cycle)
Dejinta BeeshaDigital StorytellingDixon Community ServicesDixon HallDownsview Conflict MediationElfun SocietyErnestine’s Women’s ShelterEtobicoke Conflict Mediation ServicesFCJ Refugee CentreFindhelp Information ServicesFlemingdon Neighbourhood ServicesFocus on YouthFYI (For Youth Initiative)Harmony MovementHEYY YouthHincks-DellcrestIranian Women’s OrganizationISSRA (Islamic Social Services and Resources Association)It’s In MeJean Tweed CentreJobStartJustice for Children and YouthLabour Education Council (LEC)LAMPLearning Enrichment Foundation (LEF)Local Immigrant Partnerships (LIPs) Lorraine Kisma Dance Theatre for Young PeopleMe to We LeadershipMetro Labour Education CentreMidayntaMixed Company TheatreNational Film BoardNeighborhood Action Plan (NAP) Newcomer Women’s CentreNorth End Partnership Network (NEP) North York Women’s CentreNorth York Women’s ShelterOntario Federation of Labour (OFL)On-TrackPathways to Possibilities (PTP)Positif KreyolRexdale Community Health CentreRexdale Community Legal ClinicRexdale Women’s CentreSalvation Army Women’s ShelterSankofaInCipherSelf-Help Resource CentreSkills for ChangeSocial Planning CouncilSomali Women and Children’s Support NetworkSouth Asian Women’s Rights OrganizationSouth Etobicoke Legal ClinicSOYATSyme-Woolner Neighbourhood & Family CentreTeesdale Service Network Thistletown Community Services UnitThorncliffe Neighbourhood Centre
Toronto Community Housing CorporationToronto Hadassah-WIZOToronto Workers Health and Safety Legal ClinicToronto Workforce Innovation GroupTRIECTropicana (AYCE)United Food and Commercial Workers – Locals 175 and 663Willowdale Community Legal ServicesWindfall ClothingWired Woman NetworkWomen in Media FoundationWomen Supporting Women Women Who LaunchWomen’s HabitatWoodgreen Community ServicesWorking Skills CentreWorld Education Services (WES)YMCA (Rexdale Youth Resource Centre)York Weston Community Services CentreYOUCANYouth Assisting YouthYouth Without ShelterYWCA
Education and TrainingCentennial CollegeDon Bosco Secondary SchoolGeorge Brown CollegeHumber College Institute of Technology and Applied LearningKipling Collegiate InstituteNorth Albion Collegiate InstituteRyerson UniversitySeneca CollegeThistletown Collegiate InstituteToronto Catholic District School BoardToronto District School BoardToronto Work Force Innovation Group (Formerly Training Board Toronto)University of TorontoWest Humber Collegiate InstituteYork University
Business/Corporation/Professional AssociationAcademy of Learning, BramptonAcces – Staffing Association Advanced Utility SystemsAesthetic EarthworksAir GenuityAPICS Toronto ChapterAPPS TransportationAramarkBiz Quad Technologies Inc.Box DesignsBrampton Board of TradeBusiness Innovations Technologies Inc.Caledon Chamber of Commerce Canada Revenue AgencyCanadian Association of Women Executive and EntrepreneursCanadian International Freight
Forwarders Association
MicroSkills works with many organizations across the city of Toronto, as well as provincially, and nationally. We appreciate the support provided by our service partners in meeting the needs of our clients.
Canadian Supply Chain Sector CouncilCanadian Trucking Human Resource CouncilCardinal Health CanadaCGA OntarioCH2M Hill CanadaCIBCDeloitte & ToucheDiamedxDineTODynexaEarth Inc.Etobicoke Chamber of CommerceExcellion TechnologyFederal Express FedEx Trade NetworksGeorge Kelk CorporationGo Find EventsGo TransitGoodwillGreen GardenersHiTech InstituteHolt RenfrewHopewell LogisticsHRPAO – Human Resources Professional Association Humber Transportation Training CentreInternational Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Interware SystemsJanssen-Ortho Inc.Keshva Technology Inc.KPMGKraft CanadaKriskaKRTSLandscape OntarioLandscape PlusLCBOLoblaw CompaniesMarkham Board of TradeMetro Trusted Retail SolutionsMississauga Board of Trade Ontario Public ServiceOntario Purchasing Management Association of Canada (OIPMAC)OTECOutridge Consulting ServicesPitney BowesPivotal HR SolutionsPlexxusPrinciple Inc.Procter and GambleProtransPublic OutreachPurolator Courier LtdQuercus Garden ServicesRC LandscapingRicki’s Royal Bank of CanadaRyder LogisticsSaysons Web DevelopmentScarborough Chamber of CommerceSemple Gooder Inc.Sheet Metal Workers’ & Roofers’ Local Union 30
Side Effects SoftwareSkills InternationalSmall Business Enterprise CentreSolsNetSomali Business Development CentreSonySpin MasterStaples North AmericaSunbury Transport Ltd.Taking IT Global TD Bank Financial GroupThe Green TeamThe Hospitals of Ontario Pension Plan (HOOPP)Toronto Board of TradeToronto General HospitalToronto Transit CommissionToshibaTranscoreTrans-Logic Executive Search GroupTrusted Retail SolutionsUFCW NationalUPS CanadaWildrose GardeningYorkshire Garden Services
Umbrella GroupsAction for Neighbourhood Change (ANC)Brighter FuturesCamps UnitedCoalition of Rexdale Organizations Serving Youth Community Social Planning Council of TorontoConsortium of Agencies Serving Internationally Trained Persons (CASIP)Etobicoke CAP NetworkEtobicoke Employment Service Delivery Network (EESDN)JSW Advisory CommitteeJSW CoordinatorsLINC CoordinatorsOntario Association of Youth Employment Centres (OAYEC)Ontario Council of Agencies Serving Immigrants (OCASI)Rexdale Community Network News Rexdale Neighbourhood Action Table PartnersRexdale PartnersTESL OntarioToronto CED NetworkToronto ERC NetworkYouth Employment Partnership (YEP)
MicroSkills Locations
Youth Centre235 Dixon Road, Units 12 & 106Toronto, ONM9P 2M5Tel: 416-247-7181
Women’s Employment Services140 Islington Ave Toronto, ONM8V 3B6Tel: 416-247-7181
MicroSkills West499 Main Street South,Unit#61, Brampton, ON L6Y 1N7 Tel: 905-453-5996
Business and Technology Services for Women7 & 9 Vulcan StreetEtobicoke, ON, M9W 1L3Tel: 416-247-7181
Action for Neighbourhood Change (ANC) - Rexdale2667 Kipling Ave Unit 102, M9V 4N9Tel: 416-748-7454
MicroSkills Language Program200 Consumers Road4th Floor, Unit 406M2J 4R4Tel: 416-490-9461
Head Office1 Vulcan StreetEtobicoke, ONM9W 1L3Tel: 416-247-7181
Centre of Excellence forWomen and Newcomers200 Consumers Road, 9th FloorToronto, ON, M2J 4R4 Tel: 416-247-7181
Tel: 416.247.7181 Toll Free: 1.877.979.3999 Fax: 416.247.1877 [email protected]