Spotlight: Spark Employment Services: Brand New Name, Same Great Services

Formerly known as Sudbury Vocational Resource Centre, the organization has recently changed its name to Spark Employment Services and has moved to a larger location. This strategic rebranding effort better aligns the organization with its mission, vision, and values while promoting an inclusive and accessible environment.

The organization has been providing exceptional employment and educational services for more than 30 years in Greater Sudbury, and has done so with three guiding values: guidance, compassion and respect. The organization was born out of a pilot project established in 1986 in response to the restructuring that was taking place in the mining industry, with the goal to re-integrate men receiving social assistance back into the labour force. The program was so successful that it expanded its services through the support of federal, provincial and regional governments.

Today, the organization is the city’s go-to educational and employment service provider, offering support to those seeking employment and employers seeking qualified workers. As a leading service provider in their industry, with expanded services and programs, the organization has positioned itself to serve a larger and more diverse clientele. 

Spark provides clients with computer and Internet access for all their employment seeking needs, as well as support with online job applications and resume & cover letter preparation. Along with free onsite access to printing, photocopying, telephone, fax and a constantly updated job board, Spark also assists clients by working with them to enhance their skillsets and experience, and to develop effective job search strategies. Clients can also engage in mock interviews while receiving the support to explore relevant career opportunities, access labour market information, and receive referrals to other community services and supports.

Additionally, Spark Employment Services delivers online training and certifications such as First Aid and CPR, Workplace Health and Safety, WHMIS, Excellence in Customer Service, Safe Food Handlers, Smart Serve, Customer Service and Retail Completion Certificate, Microsoft Office Workplace Essentials Completion Certificate, Soft Skills Solutions, and more.

Spark works in collaboration with the Ontario Government’s Second Career initiative, which provides successful candidates with up to $28,000 in funding to help with tuition, books, basic living allowance and other needs. The organization also offers the Educational Workplace Training Program and the following workshops and e-learning: Focused Job Search Techniques, Mastering the Employment Interview, Myers-Briggs Type Indicator / MBTI™, Strong Interest Inventory®, True Colors™, Coaching Young People for Success, Working From Home, Social Media and LinkedIn, Job Searching for the Mature Worker, and more.

Employers may also be eligible for wage subsidies. Temporary wage subsidies are available to employers as an incentive to hire individuals for full-time work.