Individuals facing complex barriers to employment in Greater Victoria are getting a boost thanks to extended funding for Beacon Community Services' BEAMS program.
Launched in September 2024, BEAMS (Beacon's Empathetic and Aspirational Method of Service) supports people navigating housing insecurity, health challenges, substance use, and more.
The program offers hands-on work experience, coaching, essential job start supplies and crucial certifications such as First Aid and Food Safe.
With new funding from Island Savings and a formal funding extension from the Ministry of Social Development and Poverty Reduction to March 2027, BEAMS can grow its reach.
The program is currently serving 94 participants as of January this year.
"This is a transformative project – one that reflects what’s possible when community partners come together to invest in people," said Tricia Gueulette, CEO of Beacon Community Services. "With renewed provincial support and Island Savings' investment, we can grow BEAMS and offer a lifeline to more individuals who are ready to rebuild their lives and futures."
With the added funding from Island Savings, Beacon can increase the number of participants accessing BEAMS, provide more off-site supportive group work and immersion experiences, increase client participation in each work experience, expand outreach services in the community, and ensure broader access to available supports at BEAMS.
Kendall Gross, president of Island Savings, said that when they first heard about the project, they saw the "significant good" it could have for community members facing employment challenges.
"The support for workplace readiness and inclusive access to employment they provide is empowering our fellow community members to flourish."
BEAMS has also forged impactful partnerships, including one with BC Transit. This collaboration provided participants with real-world training opportunities at the handyDART centre construction site, offering hands-on job experience in a professional setting.
"The experience has been a win-win for everyone involved. We’re currently looking for another opportunity to partner with the BEAMS program to continue building experience and relationships," said Lori Beaulieu, project manager for Victoria's handyDART Centre.
