Table of contents

Click on the buttons below to learn more details about WoodGreen’s Skills for Success for Experienced Workers program.

 

 

 

 

 

Program Accomplishments 2023-24

108

Mature job seekers trained in Skills for Success (SFS)

225

Hours spent on 1:1 client counselling between Employment Case Counsellors and program participants

91

Clients identified as racialized job seekers

Program Description

The Skills for Success for Experienced Workers (SSEW) Program, led by WoodGreen Community Services, is a transformative initiative aimed at empowering seasoned individuals to thrive in today’s rapidly changing workplace environment. Tailored specifically for individuals aged 45 and above, SSEW addresses the critical need to enhance core competencies essential for success in the modern job market.

 

As workplaces continue to undergo profound transformations, the SSEW Program recognizes the importance of equipping mature jobseekers with the skills and knowledge necessary to remain competitive and relevant in their respective fields. Whether it’s digital literacy, socio-emotional intelligence, or effective communication and problem-solving abilities, SSEW is committed to providing comprehensive support and resources tailored to the unique needs of experienced workers.

 

Drawing inspiration from the federal government’s Skills for Success model and WoodGreen’s OWI program, SSEW adopts a collaborative approach, utilizing established design frameworks, inventive training methodologies, and carefully curated curriculum resources to empower individuals along their occupational paths. By incorporating feedback from both participants and employers, SSEW ensures that its offerings are dynamic, relevant, and aligned with the evolving demands of the workforce.

 

At SSEW, we understand that success in today’s workplace extends beyond technical proficiency. That’s why we embrace the Skills for Success (SFS) model, emphasizing a holistic approach to skill development that encompasses nine key competencies essential for career advancement and personal growth. Furthermore, SSEW is guided by WoodGreen’s core values of Diversity, Inclusion, Equity & Belonging (DIBE) and Employability, fostering an inclusive environment where individuals from diverse backgrounds feel valued, respected, and empowered to reach their full potential.

 

 

 

Need help?

Please complete the form below if you are a community organization and would like to use the SSEW curriculum.

 

SSEW Model

SSEW's Trauma-Informed Approach

At WoodGreen, the trauma-informed approach isn’t just a responsibility for facilitators; it’s an ethos embraced by all staff members. From administrators to support personnel, everyone is trained to prioritize safety, respect, and empowerment for our participants. Our strength-focused facilitation approach is grounded in fostering a supportive and inclusive learning environment, where we meet people where they are at. This philosophy extends to creating a safe space where participants feel comfortable to engage, take risks, and explore their learning journey. Additionally, we employ a learner-centered pedagogy, recognizing diverse learning preferences and empowering individuals to take charge of their education. Our commitment to DIBE (Diversity, Inclusion, Equity & Belonging) Values permeates every aspect of our organization. We prioritize cultural humility and sensitivity, fostering an environment where individuals from diverse backgrounds feel valued and respected.

 

Throughout our program, we facilitate peer connections fostered over coffee breaks and collaboration among participants. By embedding trauma-informed principles into every facet of our operations, we create spaces that prioritize the well-being and growth of our participants. Through ongoing reflection and collaboration, we continuously refine our practices to better support individuals on their journeys. Ultimately, our goal is to empower participants to navigate their challenges with resilience, confidence, and self-awareness, fostering transformative experiences that promote healing and growth for all involved.

Program Images

Testimonials

Program Participant

SSEW

"This training provided the best thing... a community!”

Program Participant

SSEW Cohort 5

"I have spoken about the program to a number of individuals. It has improved and broaden my vision overall. I have been a small business owner operating high profile gift shops in top hotels in Canada and recently sold my business after 25 years in retailing, which was interesting but exhausting. I am well experienced in all aspects of business and I wanted to brush up my computer skills and other skills which I never had an opportunity or time during my business, hence decided to join the program to improv my skills."

Program Participant

SSEW Cohort 5

"This program was recommended to me by another social program because as a senior, there are very few back-to-work programs offered for those 65+. I have multiple co-morbidities, and in the age of COVID, returning to work in indoor spaces with people not wearing masks was anxiety inducing. However, every effort was made to address my concerns, and the WoodGreen staff were very accommodating. They're a great bunch of people."

Resources

Resources are not to be used for commercial purposes. Feel free to download the training resources below for immediate use in your community organization or workplace. Please contact us via the webform for access to the original PowerPoint files.

  • Public facing project report

    Download the Public facing project report here

  • Summary Report

    Download the Summary Report here

  • Written testimonials

    See what the participants have to say about the program here

  • SSEW High Level Process Workflow Diagram

    Download the SSEW High Level Process Workflow Diagram here

  • Facilitator Guide

    Download the Facilitator Guide here

  • Program Curriculum

    Download the Program Curriculum here

  • Curriculum Outcome Map

    Download the Curriculum Outcome Map here