The Maple Ridge WorkBC Centre is proud to support job seekers from all walks of life. Through training, community partnerships, specialized programs, and post-employment support, the Centre helps clients not just find work—but thrive in it. The following five success stories are a glimpse of the impact the Centre has on its clients.

To learn more about the services and workshops available, visit the WorkBC Maple Ridge Centre or check out our calendar of events.

Success Story #1: Training & Wage Subsidy Support Pave the Way for ECE Career

Client: Aida
Supports Provided: Occupational Skills Training, Wage Subsidy Program

With support from the Maple Ridge WorkBC Centre, Aida successfully completed training to earn her Early Childhood Education (ECE) certification—taking a major step forward in her career journey. WorkBC also worked with Aida’s employer to access the Wage Subsidy Program, which helps offset training costs while supporting sustainable employment.

Grateful for the encouragement and expert guidance she received, Aida sent this heartfelt note:

“I am so thankful to have known WorkBC Maple Ridge. Your team changed my life and helped brighten my future. A special thanks to Daniel and Fereshteh for their patience and great advice throughout this journey.”

Success Story #2: Healing, Confidence & Employment Through Community Partnership

Client: Anonymous
Supports Provided: Referral to Specialized Program, Employment Counselling, Financial Support
Partner Organization: Triangle Community Resources

The Maple Ridge WorkBC Centre believes in holistic, client-centered care—and that includes strong partnerships with community organizations like Triangle Community Resources. One recent client was referred to the Rise Up Program, which supports individuals who have experienced violence or abuse in finding sustainable employment.

This no-cost program offers:

• 1:1 employment counselling
• Group-based employability workshops
• Personal counselling with RCCs or psychologists
• Skills training, job search help, and financial supports

The client shared the following note with the Centre:

“I am so thankful to have this opportunity to attend the RISE Workshop. I am learning so much.
What an amazing group of inspiring young women!!!
Thank you for assisting me with the referral to the RISE Program.
I feel I am in the right place at the right time…”

Success Story #3: Empowering Extraordinary Teens for the Workforce

Program: eTEA (Extraordinary Teens with Extraordinary Abilities)
Partners: School District 42 & WorkBC Maple Ridge
Supports Provided: Youth Employment Training, Career Preparation

WorkBC Maple Ridge proudly delivers eTEA, a unique program developed in partnership with School District 42. Designed for Grade 13 students with disabilities, this 15-week, full-day Friday program helps youth prepare for life after high school by building practical skills, confidence, and job readiness.

After completing eTEA, many students continue their journey at the Maple Ridge WorkBC Centre to receive further job search assistance and employment support.

From the District’s Learning Services Department:

“Thank you both so much for your dedication, commitment and compassion in continuing this valuable course for these amazing students.
You are incredibly inclusive and wonderful people. Every year the class is such a success because of the advocacy and work you both do to support students in the eTEA classes.”

Success Story #4: Workshops That Make a Difference

Client: Anonymous
Supports Provided: Employment Workshops, Career Planning, Cover Letter & Resume Support

The Maple Ridge WorkBC Centre offers a variety of free workshops to help clients build job search skills and re-enter the workforce with confidence.

One participant recently completed the Leading-Edge Job Search workshop and shared:

“Just wanted to say a big thank you for the workshop. I really enjoyed the sessions—it was super insightful and filled with practical takeaways. Your mix of experience, humour, and down-to-earth advice made it all the more engaging. Loved the local touches too—your stories about Maple Ridge (Haney!) gave it that extra relatable feel.
Our talk also gave me the clarity to revise my cover letter and thoughtfully address my career break—something I hadn’t fully considered before.”

Success Story #5: Employment Support That Goes Beyond the Job Offer

Client: Anonymous
Supports Provided: Post-Employment Services, Financial Support

Support from WorkBC Maple Ridge doesn’t stop once a client lands a job. Continued services during the first year of employment help ensure a smooth transition and long-term success.

One client, now working for the Fraser River Indigenous Society (FRIS), shared her appreciation one month into her new role:

“On the 16th I’ll have been working for FRIS for one month! I’m so happy here!
Thanks so much, please share my gratitude with Noor, Ana-Liza, and your manager, Karoline (she was amazing in helping me pay for my Criminal Records Check).”