Manitoba Youth Job Centres (MYJC) in the region have opened for the season.

Erin Robert, Youth Engagement Leader in Morris

Students and youth from 12 to 29 can receive free help finding summer employment. Local employers also use the centres to find qualified summer staff.

Isabel Wallace is the Youth Engagement Leader for Altona's location. She's heading into her second year at the University of Manitoba and is looking forward to helping people find employment this season. 

"I take in job orders from employers, and relay relevant jobs to qualified youth who have registered with the Centre. We also run the Odd Job Squad, planning events for youth aged 12-16. This group gains valuable job experience, while having a lot of fun, and even make some money for their efforts," said Wallace.

The Youth Engagement Leader also helps with a variety of other things in the Centre, like job interview preparation and resume writing.

"Employers, including businesses and households, should feel comfortable contacting me any time. I'd be happy to come to you and answer any questions you have. Hiring youth is beneficial to the whole of Altona, as youth with job experience will feel encouraged to stay in the community, especially if they love their job," said Wallace.  

Erin Robert is the Youth Engagement Leader in Morris and held the position last year as well. She's in her second year at the University of Manitoba, working towards a degree in Microbiology. Robert also invites people looking for summer employment to come by her office.

Taylor Veldman, Youth Engagement Leader in Carman "All they have to do is come to my office and fill out a registration form," she said. "If they are under 16 though, they will need to take it home to get a parent or guardian’s signature."

Taylor Veldman, Youth Engagement Leader for Carman, says youth ages 12-16 can gain valuable work experience through the Odd Job Squad.

"Youth are able to sign up for the First Job Certificate Program, which teaches about customer services, money management, and a whole bunch more," said Veldman.

The wide variety of MYJC jobs include casual labour jobs, such as lawn care and babysitting, or more regular positions, such as working as a cashier, in a restaurant, or for a manufacturing company.

Below are the phone numbers for the local Manitoba Youth Job Centres:

Carman 204-750-0054

Altona204-304-0930

Morris 204-712-0706