Independence Becoming a Reality!

December 30, 2019

After five years of unemployment, Sarah* is working in her field of interest and study!

After a series of entry level jobs, Sarah decided to pursue a post-secondary education. She completed her Associate Degree in Psychology in 2010, followed by her Bachelor of Social Work from the University of the Fraser Valley in 2014. While she actively volunteered from 2015-2018, she was unable to find paid employment in her field of study.

Sarah is legally blind and although she had the education and qualifications, in interviews, potential employers struggled to see past her disability. Friends and family suggested she contact WorkBC and when she moved to Maple Ridge, she did just that.

Sarah attended several WorkBC workshops, got assistance with her résumé and some coaching to prepare for interviews. A Career Coach helped Sarah identify and connect with supportive employers in her field. As a result, Sarah has landed a fantastic job that matches her interests and education. She is ecstatic to be able to help others and very excited for the future. She reports that her new employer is also excited to have her. In the new year, she will be getting more hours and will be on her way to no longer being dependent on disability benefits.

*Name has been changed to protect the individual’s privacy.