Information on the Canada Summer Jobs 2010 program

Are you the proprietor of a community-based not-for-profit organization? Are you involved in promoting tourism to our beautiful community? Is your organization involved in protecting Nanaimo-Cowichan’s environment? Most importantly, do you need extra help this summer and don’t have the resources to hire someone?

If you answered yes to one of these questions, you may be interested in learning more about the Canada Summer Jobs 2010 program.

Canada Summer Jobs 2010 is starting to take form in Nanaimo-Cowichan and will enter the application phase from February 1st to the 26th. The program is a federal government grant given to prospective employers in certain sectors of work. The grant gives employers the funds necessary to hire a student looking for summer work experience. It is a program in which jobs are created and valuable work experience is gained.

2009 was a very tough year for our community and we are certainly not out of the woods yet, despite what the Conservative government tells us. 1.6 million Canadians are still out of work and a recent report from the Canadian Center of Policy Alternatives has found that many unemployed are running out of Employment Insurance (EI) benefits before they can find a job.

The youth unemployment is at 16 percent nationally, which is double the average unemployment rate in Canada. This high unemployment rate puts a significant population of Canada’s youth at a disadvantage to those who are employed. This is why programs that create employment and help young workers gain experience such Canada Summer Jobs are so important.

The application process for Canada Summer Jobs is competitive, so be sure to review your application thoroughly and make sure it is in accordance with Service Canada’s guidelines before you hand it in. I strongly recommend that you attend information sessions provided by Service Canada – these are usually held during the application process and will be announced soon. For more information on the program, you can consult Service Canada’s website at www.servicecanada.gc.ca or call them toll free at 1-800-935-5555.

I look forward to hearing from you. Contact me at 1-866-609-9998 or by email at jean@jeancrowder.ca.