Partnerships

COASTAL EMPLOYMENT NETWORK

The Coastal Employment Network (CEN) is a partnership initiative developed in 2003. It is comprised of a group of community based service providers working together to provide services to the unemployed in the costal region of Central and Northern Vancouver Island, as well as Powell River.

This partnership group is dedicated to building sustainable rural communities through the work we do within the Social Service network. With the belief that employment and work is the foundation of sustainable communities, and that every citizen has a contribution to make, we provide services in our communities where unemployed and/or marginalized clients can connect and access the resources to get them started.

For contracting and administration purposes, Opportunities Career Services Society maintains the lead role in agreements with the Ministry of Employment and Income Assistance of the provincial government.

CEN Objectives

To create common approaches that work in multiple communities through creative communication and planning, that is responsive to unique strengths and needs of each community.

To work within policies of the government, meeting the needs of the communities and client service delivery.

To advocate for community service delivery in rural remote communities.

To encourage and build community partnerships and local autonomy.

To enhance the capability of our client group to re-connect in our communities, obtaining successful outcomes and better life balance.

Role of the Coastal Employment Network

Since 2004 the partners have provided Community Assistance Program services in the communities of Campbell River, Courtenay, Powell River, Port Hardy, and Port Alberni in partnership with the Ministry of Employment and Income Assistance of the provincial government.

CEN (with Opportunities in the lead role) also maintains contracts with the Ministry of Employment and Income Assistance for the Specialized Services pilot projects that fund Community Resource Centres presently being developed in Powell River and Port Hardy.

PARTNERS IN THE COASTAL EMPLOYMENT NETWORK