Regina work preparation centre changing with the times and workforce

The Regina Work Preparation Centre marked the opening of its improved office Friday. 

Located at at 2020 Halifax St., the not-for-profit organization helps people who have barriers or challenges to finding employment. It is supported by funding from the provincial government as well as private donations.

Executive director Cris Bailey said that an important part of what the centre does is act as go between for employers and potential employees. 

Bailey said this is especially crucial for people with certain backgrounds.

“If you have the conversation, well no criminal record for this, but OK it’s probably OK for that … so if you don’t have that conversation, these people don’t even get screened.”

Bailey said that the changing demographics of the city have led to a change in the centre’s clientele.  

“Traditionally two to three per cent of our client base was new Canadians, we’ve had a big spurt … last year and now we are trying to figure how best to respond and support that.”

Bailey said that today about 10 to 15 per cent of the centre’s clients are new Canadians.

Bailey said demographic changes are not the only factors affecting the centre and its programming.

“As we know, as the baby boomers get into older age, they’ll be leaving the workforce, but maybe want to re-engage … for the workforce of the future to expand and grow we need all sectors.”