Sunday afternoon proved a proud moment in the lives of seven Pontiac residents, as they gathered to celebrate their graduation from West Pontiac Connects’ Skills Link program.

However, their pride was only surpassed by those of their program coordinators, who’ve worked closely with the tight-knit group as they look to advance their career options and life skills.

“Our goal is for them to not be sitting at home,” said program coordinator Marielle Lair. “Our goal for them is to be working or going to school.”

After spending 10 weeks in a classroom and 13 on work placements, the seven graduates were excited to receive their certificates. The class had become a close-knit group, as jokes spilled over into the ceremony and spirits were high in Ancienne Banque.

This session’s group was made up of Joey Boisvert, Shawn Demers, Blake Grieve, Cloé Lavigne, Cassandra Longpré, Josh Mitchell and Brett Soulière.

The program saw the group first learning a variety of skills, from money management through to workplace etiquette, literacy and computer skills, before applying them on their placement. As well, West Pontiac Connects has the students volunteering within the community, often helping seniors with a variety of needs.

Lair said this service is much appreciated and sought after, as it helps locals with yard work and other tasks. In return, these individuals usually provide references for the graduates, helping to build their resumés.

The graduation represents their determination to find their fit in the work force, explained Lair. With the intimate class number, the program coordinators can learn about the individuals and guide them to potential interests and possibilities for their skills. This can range from options to go directly into the workforce or pursuing further education.

“This program is to get to know and assess each individual by themselves,” said West Pontiac Connects Board President Gene O’Brien. “The good thing about that is that by learning your weaknesses and your strengths, it allows them to find you an employer that will really recognize your strengths.”

Being such a manageable size, the educators clearly grew to understand the needs of the group, as demonstrated by their speeches Sunday afternoon. Assistant coordinator Linda Thompson had a special message tailored for each graduate, a sentiment which was clearly appreciated.

“I’m really proud of all of you,” she said to the graduates. “In spite of a few challenges … we learned a few things, you guys all stuck together … and you all went on to succeed in a job market setting.”

Students left the program more comfortable with their understanding of the workforce and how they can succeed within it.

Some, like Grieve, said he found the volunteer work to be a rewarding experience as he met and helped those in the community. Mitchell added that learning about the island’s history through the church’s museum was interesting.

Now that they’re wrapped up with the program, they have a better idea of what they plan to do next. Grieve said he plans to go west and find work in the oil industry, while Mitchell is considering joining the military.

Skills Link is a federally-funded program under the Youth Employment Strategy, meant to encourage youth overcome barriers to their education and employment. Students are paid during the 23 week session and develop a better sense of the needs for the local labour force through their participation.

Registration is still open for the next session beginning on March 4, with two spots available as of press time. Those interested can contact Lair at 819-689-2878 or email wpconnects@gmail.com.

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