Program - CHOICES

Are You Ready To Make Changes In Your Life?

CHOICES is a unique project designed to increase the employability of Aboriginal women survivors of abuse. The all-female team consists of a Program Coordinator, Life Skills Facilitator, Work Placement Facilitator, Education Teacher, Family Counsellor, and a host of certified trainers.

CHOICES embraces traditional Elders and invites them to attend our classes so that we can learn from their experience and teachings.

Participant activities will focus on:

Empowerment to make positive choices
Integration and healing
Stopping intergenerational abuse
Skill development and employment

CHOICES Mission

To provide a foundation for First Nations Women to enter the workplace in mainstream society by creating a bridge to further education, skills training and/or employment.

To develop positive self-esteem through education on First Nations culture and the history of Canada's relationship with First Nations people.

To provide education to women on family violence issues in a safe and supportive environment.

CHOICES Program

CHOICES runs 3 times a year for 20 weeks each session. The topics cover a range of education, healing and self-improvement topics:

Abuse Dynamics Awareness
Personal Preparation Awareness
Personal Management Skills
Employment Maintenance Skills
Career Planning
Job Search Skills
Work Experience Placement
Specific Skills Training - (ABE) (GED
Drama Therapy
Ongoing Counselling and Support
Post Program Support

There are 6 certificate courses:

Women's Self Defence - Wen Li Do
Food Safe
First Aid
CPR
First Host
WHMIS

CHOICES Eligibility

CHOICES accepts 16 participants who are Aboriginal women survivors of abuse, and recipients or dependents of recipients under the BC Benefits (income assistance).

Application Process

The application process has several steps:

Application/Interview Process (one hour duration)
Assessment
Second interview
Follow-up Letter