2nd Chance Employment Counselling in Wellington recently celebrated its 50th anniversary with an open house at their office in Guelph. The agency, which initially offered services for people with addictions and disabilities when it opened in 1974, later expanded to provide employment and counselling services for youth in 1982 with the help of provincial funding. The agency has since opened offices in Fergus and at the Stone Road Mall in Guelph. Chris Baginski-Hansen, the executive director of 2nd Chance for over 35 years, expressed her amazement at the agency’s longevity, crediting it to various factors such as government policies and economic conditions. She hopes to continue helping youth find long-term success in the next 50 years.
Over the past five decades, technology has significantly evolved. In 1974, typewriters were commonly used for resume writing, and rotary-dial telephones were the primary mode of communication. Today, most people have access to computers and the internet. Baginski-Hansen recalled the early days when there were only two computers in the office, and how the advent of the internet revolutionized their work process by providing instant access to information. The presence of dignitaries such as Guelph MP Lloyd Longfield, Guelph MPP and Green Party Leader Mike Schreiner, and city councillor Carly Klassen at the anniversary celebration highlighted the agency’s importance in the community.
During the anniversary celebration, Guelph MP Lloyd Longfield announced that 2nd Chance is receiving $1.74 million for their Ways2work program, aimed at assisting youth facing barriers to employment. The program is part of the Employment and Social Development Canada’s Youth Employment and Skills Strategy Program, which allocated $370 million over four years to support over 200 community-led projects across Canada. Baginski-Hansen emphasized that the Way2work program has already helped over 1,500 youth in finding employment, and she hopes for continued success in the future.
The funding provided by the government will enable 2nd Chance to help 140 more youth in the community find employment, sparking a chain reaction of positive impact as these individuals, in turn, help others secure jobs. The agency’s focus is on ensuring that youth find not just short-term jobs, but long-term career success, by providing intensive support and resources. Baginski-Hansen expressed her desire for additional resources to be allocated towards staff training, enabling them to deliver more personalized and effective services to the youth they serve.
As the executive director of 2nd Chance, Baginski-Hansen is proud of the agency’s accomplishments over the past 50 years and looks ahead to the future with optimism. The anniversary celebration served as a reminder of the agency’s commitment to supporting youth in achieving their employment goals and overcoming barriers. By adapting to technological advancements and evolving government policies, 2nd Chance has remained a vital resource for the community. The next 50 years hold promise for further growth and impact as the agency continues its mission of empowering youth through employment services.
