Looking to re-enter the workforce after losing your job or taking time out? Need help upgrading your skills or gaining experience in a new job?

Targeted Initiative for Older Workers (TIOW)

The Targeted Initiative for Older Workers (TIOW) program is for communities affected by significant industry downsizing or closures. Priority is given to workers who have been displaced but are not receiving employment insurance benefits.

This federal/provincial program provides assessment, counselling, resumé writing, interview techniques and job finding clubs. Other services may include:

• Basic skills upgrading
• Training allowances
• Preparation for self-employment
• Marketing to employers
• Work experience placements
• Post-project follow-up
• Mentoring

Unemployed workers between the ages of 55 and 64 qualify for this program. Some exceptions may be made if you are between 50 and 54 or are older than 65.

TIOW projects are available in communities across the province. See TIOW programs and contacts for details.

Read the Success Story below for an example of this program in action.

ThirdQuarter Skills Bank

Do you live in the South Okanagan area? ThirdQuarter can help you learn about job opportunities, businesses and organizations in the region. Contact them to identify your skills, post your skills profiles online and connect with firms.

Third Quarter is funded by the Government of Canada’s Office of Literacy and Essential Skills and is sponsored by provincial Chambers of Commerce.

Success Story: Nancy Baker, Office Administrator

"My husband and I are in the logging business and that profession is not a sure thing anymore. I knew I had to get back into the workforce and that scared me. I had an appointment to see my employment counsellor and she told me about the VIEW^* Program.

I began in the program with a feeling of hope and excitement. I became aware of all the transferable skills that I didn't know I possessed. When the program was finished I took my resume and started knocking on some doors. I'm enjoying being back in the workforce with the flexibility that I need and the confidence I had been lacking. I absolutely love the job I'm doing and have a renewed sense of accomplishment."

* The local Value in Experienced Workers (VIEW) program is one of the many programs funded through TIOW.