Operational hours for the holiday season:

  • Dec. 23 (Mon) - 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
  • Dec. 24 (Tues) - 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
  • Dec. 25 - 26 (Wed and Thurs) - CLOSED 
  • Dec. 27 (Fri) -  9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
  • Dec. 28 (Sat) - 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
  • Dec. 29 (Sun) - CLOSED
  • Dec. 30 - 31 (Mon and Tues) - 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
  • Jan. 1 (Wed) - CLOSED
  • Jan. 2 (Thurs) - 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
  • Jan. 3 (Fri) - 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
  • Jan. 4 (Sat) - 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.  

Kelsey's Journey to Success

Posted at:
Health Care Aide

In January 2019, I had been working hard as a drywall laborer in construction for four years, Rude job for a single mom of 2 young boys, right? But hardly needed! Even though, after working every day, I got laid off and ended up going on EI (Employment Insurance). Luckily, I later received an email from WorkBC about an opportunity to get funded for a program worth up to 10 grands. I took my chance!

I met Rosita, my case manager, for the first time. She sent me to the career planning and job search workshops. After a few weeks of courses and learning, I decided to reinvent myself in the medical industry. So, I was recommended to join the PBLMT Health Care Assistant Program. I never thought I would turn my life around the way I have. I've always considered becoming a care aide, but the idea of going back to school after ten years and navigating funding scared me.

She processed my application and the financial support I needed to join. I also loved and deeply miss my amazing teacher. I can’t thank them enough; I wouldn’t have made it without the support of WorkBC Centre Whalley team. The past eight months have been a roller coaster as I tried to maintain balance. There were many emotional days when I wanted to give up, but my case manager encouraged me to stay calm, and I persevered.

I’m proud of how far I’ve come—I am officially a certified care aide. All the hard work pays off in the end, there are endless opportunities to get great jobs. I was offered immediate job at George Derby Center, where I spent my final practicum. I am thankful and happy; I am finally making a difference in people’s lives and I could not be happier. 

WorkBC

WorkBC is the provincial government's access point to the world of work in British Columbia. It was created with one key goal — to help all British Columbians to successfully navigate B.C.'s labour market.