Services for Young People (ages 15-30)

Finding the right job can be difficult. Going through interviews can be nerve-wracking, building a resume can be stressful, and not knowing your next steps can be overwhelming.

Group of youth talking at a table

Whether you’re confident in your job searching approach and just need occasional advice, need more in depth job search coaching, or you are new to the job of looking for a job, Lutherwood can help. Our employment services for job seekers under 30 are delivered by experienced staff who can help you where you need it most. And best of all, it’s free.


Drop-in Support
(Employment Ontario Services)

This option is ideal if you are under 30 and comfortable job searching on your own, with occasional support. Drop in to one of our Resource Centers and let us know how our friendly, experienced staff can help.

Drop-in Support offers:

  • Support in exploring career options
  • Help with resume and cover letters
  • Advice on job applications
  • Job search workshops
  • Practice interview sessions
  • Social media presence management

Specialized programs to help you prepare for work:

Job Training and Placement

Youth Job Connection

This program is ideal if you are 15 – 29, unemployed, not in school or training, and need extra support with your job search.

Youth Job Connection offers:

  • Minimum of 60 hours of paid participation in employment-related workshops
  • 1:1 coaching and support to develop a plan and achieve your job search goals
  • Connections with local employers for paid job placements to gain exposure and hands-on experience
  • Access to job-related training such as First Aid, Smart Serve, and Safe Food Handling
  • Assistance with work-related costs such as clothing and transportation
  • Support with connections to educational programs

Student Job Training and Placement

Youth Job Connection Summer:

This program is ideal if you are a student, 15 – 18 and need some help to find a summer job or part-time work during the school year.

Youth Job Connection Summer offers:

    • Minimum of 20 hours of paid participation in employment-related workshops
    • 1:1 coaching and support to identify interests and increase job search skills
    • Connections with local employers for paid job placements to gain exposure and hands-on experience
    • Assistance with work-related costs such as clothing and transportation

*Offered during March Break and first week of summer

Transitioning into Employment

Getting Ahead in the Workplace (YESS)

If you are facing significant barriers to finding and maintaining employment, this program might be for you.

Getting Ahead in the Workplace offers:

  • 90 hours of paid workshop participation over a 6-week period
  • Support in stabilizing your housing and basic needs situation and exploring mental wellness strategies
  • 1:1 coaching to identify your strengths and develop a future story plan
  • Interview connections that lead to employment with local youth friendly organizations

*Available at our Kitchener location only

Support for New Canadians

Young Newcomer Career Support (YNCS)

This program helps newcomer youth find local job opportunities and navigate the job search process and employment related experiences.

Young Newcomer Career Support (YNCS) offers:

  • Job Search Workshops: In person, community, school based or virtual workshops about worker rights, safety, work culture, job search and more.
  • Job Connection: Our Job Developers connect you to potential employers and search for jobs with you.
  • Coaching: Help with in-person or virtual onboarding, training and on-the-job coaching. Translation and interpretation in Tigrigna and Amharic are available. Other languages may be available.

*Available at our Guelph location only

  • Youth Job Connection is an Employment Ontario program is funded by the Ontario government.
  • Getting Ahead in the Workplace (YESS) is funded by the Government of Canada.
  • Young Newcomer Career Support (YNCS) is funded by the Government of Canada through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada.
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Lutherwoods Guelph Employment Services Staff Group Photo

Ready to Get Started?

Think you may benefit from our specialized youth programs? Let’s connect! We will help determine which program is right for you.
Let's Connect!