Get there with EDGE

Work, Life, Wellness. Let’s build all three.

Engage | Develop | Grow | Employment

Liam

“I can safely say that I enjoyed every minute of the EDGE program.”

Ali

"EDGE gave me the skills and support I needed to find full-time work. I started as a casual at GLOW, but with full-time hours. When I wanted to grow and take on more responsibilities, I got a job at U-Haul while keeping casual hours at GLOW. That work ethic really came in handy! I’ve been more confident and I know that if I ever need extra support, I can always reach out to EDGE again."

Kelsey

“I love EDGE because I have made so many friends, and have had so many new experiences. EDGE has helped me to learn how to achieve my goals!”

Brendan

“I was in a headspace that nothing could help me. I didn’t realize how helpful this really could be… the mental health support was invaluable to me. Anybody who is struggling to find a job because of mental health, EDGE would be very helpful for it.”

Engage | Develop | Grow | Employment

FAQs

What is the EDGE Program?

EDGE is an employment and pre-employment program designed for young adults (ages 18-26) who are unemployed, underemployed, or receiving income assistance. We help participants gain skills, build confidence, and find work in a way that fits their needs and goals. We have two cohorts: in-person in Halifax, and online.

Who can join EDGE?

If you're between 18 and 26, live in Nova Scotia, and need support with finding a job, EDGE could be a great fit for you! We ask participants to be able to commit to our 12-week cohort length. No previous work experience is required. We also help you build life skills, and gain confidence to help you succeeded in the job market.

How much does it cost to join EDGE?

Nothing! EDGE is completely free for participants. We even help with things like bus tickets, job search materials, workplace clothing, food security and more, if needed.

What if I don’t have a laptop, phone or internet access?

No problem! We have a partnership with GEO Nova Scotia can provide Chromebooks, Android phones, internet access and other tech you will need so you can fully participate in the EDGE program.

Is EDGE like school?

Not at all. EDGE is designed to be low-pressure and supportive. There are workshops, one-on-one support, and group activities, but you set your own goals and work at a pace that’s right for you.

What workshops and lessons does EDGE cover?

EDGE offers a variety of workshops to help you build confidence, gain skills, and prepare for employment. These include:

  • Employment skills: Resume writing, cover letters, interview techniques, job searching strategies

  • Professional development: Motivation, goal setting, time management, accountability

  • Employment coaching: One-on-one meetings with our Job Developers, who have many connections with community employers

  • Certification programs: First Aid, CPR, WHMIS, Food Safety

  • Personal growth: Hands-on learning for independent living skills like cooking, and money education

  • Mental wellness: Workshops dedicated to managing stress, anxiety or other barriers, and access to confidential meetings with our Mental Wellness Coordinator

  • Community outings & team-building activities: Fun, hands-on learning experiences that help develop social and job-related skills

What kinds of jobs do people get through EDGE?

It depends on your interests! EDGE has helped participants get jobs in retail, customer service, trades, administration, and more. We work with you to find what suits your strengths and employment goals!

What if I have anxiety or other personal barriers?

We get it — starting something new can be tough. EDGE is an inclusive, judgment-free space where we work with you to develop strategies to overcome personal barriers. You don’t need to have everything figured out — we’re here to support you.

What if I want to join in-person?

You can! We offer an in-person option where you can attend workshops, meet with staff, and participate in activities at our location in Halifax. If in-person is the right fit for you, let us know when you apply!

What if I want to join online?

EDGE also has a fully online option for those who prefer virtual participation, or are located outside of Halifax Regional Municipality. If you don’t have a laptop or internet access, we can help provide the tech you need to join. You’ll still get access to workshops, support, and all the benefits of the program.

How do I sign up?

It’s easy! Just email contact@edgeprogram.ca or visit our website to get started. Our Intake Coordinator will chat with you to see if EDGE is the right fit and help you take the next steps. If you have a referring agent already — if you don’t, that’s okay, it’s not needed — let them know about the program and they can reach out to our intake coordinator for you.

Wherever you’re at, we’ve got a place for you.

The staff that make it happen.

  • Anna (she/ her) | Online Program Facilitator & Coordinator

    Anna has not written a bio, but sources say she is an award-winning artist and educator.

  • Chris | Halifax Program Facilitator

    I haven’t met Chris in person yet, but his last job was doing video production. We’re holding you to the EDGE movie. And no, has not written a bio, but I also haven’t really given him a chance to (or told him he needs one), so here we are.

  • Shataya | Program Mentor & Coordinator

    Shataya did write a bio, but I just wanted to throw in that she’s a gamer, and have mad respect for the genre she loves: horror games.

    Shataya was born and raised in Halifax, Nova Scotia. She has worked with youth. She has worked with children and youth for the past seven years and will continue to do so as the program mentor for Edge! She brings both the professional and personal experience to the program, as she can relate to the challenges youth face in the employment sector. She has finished her bachelor’s degree in sociology at Dalhousie University and continues to work on her social work degree. Shataya is happy to join the team and overcome the systemic barriers our youth are challenged with on a daily. Shataya is looking forward to providing support to the team and to the youth!

  • Emma | Mental Wellness Facilitator

    Emma has also not written a bio, but she is originally from England, and you can catch her frolicking in the sunflower fields.

  • Sara (she/her) | Program Mentor

    Need someone to cheer you on, help you tackle challenges, swap adventure stories or just chat about life? Sara’s your person! With a background in Psychology and Sociology from Saint Mary’s University, she’s all about understanding people and helping them succeed. Outside of EDGE, you’ll probably find her hiking, paddle boarding, camping, at dance class, or rollerblading (and continuing to do so, since stopping is a WIP). Sara's passionate about art, creativity, and making meaningful connections, which makes her the perfect mentor to support, encourage, and help EDGE participants grow.

  • Destiny | Intake Coordinator

    Didn’t write a bio, but watch out: she will make the office a better place.

  • Aimee | Mental Wellness Coordinator

    Aimee did write a bio, but I just wanted to say that this pitcure is 12/10. Outfit + Doggo = Brillance.

    Aimee is EDGE’s mental health counsellor. She is a dog love and a proud mom. You will find her hiking, biking, rollerblading and kayaking or SUP. Aimee is a marriage and family therapist with a passion for working with youth. Aimee loves to uplift, motivate, and provide tools and workshops on various mental health topics related to barriers or challenges around the return to work and/or employment. Aimee is a mindfulness practitioner, certified grief support counsellor as well as completing complex grief training. Aimee is trained in cognitive behavioural therapy, narrative therapy, and emotionally focused therapy. Research suggest that labor force, participation pays enormous dividends in quality of life and improved health; employment and education are essential elements to recovery for people with mental illness. Aimee is honoured to be a part of the EDGE program allowing participants to realize their full potential and improve their quality of life and mental health.

  • Roberta | Job Developer

    Roberta | Job Developer

    Did write a bio, but staying on theme, I need to insert a comment: Roberta sends the best emails and is the number one fan of the MetroWorks Bulletin.

    Roberta is the job developer for EDGE and she connects people to suitable employers. Roberta is a Saint Mary’s Alumni and certified Career Practitioner and she has been in the employment field for almost 20 years across Canada. Roberta is passionate about helping people move forward on their employment journey and helping them find suitable employment. Roberta enjoys travelling, playing/teaching Djembe, practicing guitar, pickelball, drawing, painting, and is a foodie of all cuisines.

  • Ethan | Job Developer

    Most likely to tell government what’s up, and we’re here for it.

    Ethan is a job developer for EDGE. He started his own employment journey as a participant in a MetroWorks employment program for youth. The program helped him discover areas of employment that suited his passions and strengths. Now, Ethan is in the role of helping others develop their own pathways to achieve employment and life goals. Before working with EDGE, he worked in a few other MetroWorks programs over the years, most recently as a case manager with a partnership with AspireAtlantic. Outside of work, Ethan enjoys playing the bass, listening to music, playing video games and spending time with pets, family and friends.