Learner Stories

Dawn’s Story

Dawn’s Story

I was aging out of the school system, so my husband’s social worker suggested I go to the Learning Exchange because they could help me get my GED. I went more than once to see what would work for me and that never seemed to matter. In 2019, I went back to WorkLinks because I got tired of living on the system. I took all nine workshops of the Soft Skills training. They also helped me find an internship with the United Way. 

I was originally supposed to be there for one month, but they ended up keeping me for an additional month because it was so busy. I learned so much; how to do reports, typing and time management. I also learned that the earlier you show up, the better it looks. So, show up early and be ready. 

That’s how I have figured out what I want to do now. I always liked the idea of working in an office. Now my goal is to finish my GED, go to college to get the education to become a receptionist and then work. 

I tell everyone – if you need help – go see them. The staff is really caring and they don’t judge. It’s amazing there. I’m pretty much part of the family now.

More Learner Stories

Natusha’s Story

Natusha discusses what she learned in women's empowerment programs and how she is sharing that knowledge with her children.

Read more
Matt’s Story

I heard about the Learning Exchange from my case worker at the Teen Resource Centre. She suggested I check it out and see if the programs might be helpful for me. I wanted to finish high school, so I met with someone at the Learning Exchange and they told me about the G.O.A.L.S. program. It was interesting to me because it was different from the schools I had gone to before. 

Read more
Sam’s Story

Sam discusses how she overcame barriers with the support she received in women's empowerment programming.

Read more

Start your journey today Get Started