OUR training programs are divided into 3 areas (pathways)

The Learning Pathway | The Workplace Experience Pathway | Employment Transitions Pathway

Each pathway offers participants the chance to learn, explore career options, obtain training certificates,
meet people with similar interests, and work towards accomplishing their personal goals.

APPLY NOW

THE WORK EXPERIENCE PATHWAY

The Workplace Experience and Training Program is a 4-month initiative that provides work experience to people who have difficulties finding or keeping employment. The program is designed to enhance your job skills, provide support and coaching, and decrease any barriers you may be facing.

As a participant, you will undergo a variety of certifications and skills training workshops, tailored to your goals and free of charge. You will also be placed into one of the various Saskatoon Food Bank & Learning Centre departments.

NOTE: Current applications are for the Fall 2026 cohort beginning in September

What To Expect
The Workplace Experience and Training Program provides you the opportunity to engage in a supported employment experience, where you will also undergo certifications and workshops to boost your resume and learn skills, makinf you more competitive in the job market.
Some topics include: WHMIS, First Aid/CPR, Food Safe, Trauma Informed Care, Worker's Rights, Forklift Training, Service Best, Serve It Right, Communication, Time Management, Interview Skills, and much more.
If you don't see what you're looking for, contact us and we can explore how our program can fit your needs.
Program Details
Cost: Free
Current Session Dates:
May 2026 - August 2026
Upcoming Session Dates:
September 2026 - December 2026
How To Apply:
Application Link Below
Who Should Apply:
Anybody Experiencing Barriers to Meaningful Employment

THE EMPLOYMENT TRANSITIONS PATHWAY

The Employment Transitions Program strives to provide full support to Creating Opportunities Strategy (COS) participants. Whether you're graduating from a recent cohort of the Workplace Experience and Training program, or just need help throughout the job search process after attending a Free Public Workshop, Employment Transitions is here.

This program provides you with 1 full year of support navigating the job search process. Supports include resume and cover letter writing, job search strategies, employer referrals, mock interviews, and much more. Employment Transitions ensures you receive the help you need to achieve your goals.

What To Expect
The Employment Transitions Program provides long-term support. You will first meet with our team members to determine which of your goals we can help you achieve, and to devise an action plan.
From there, we will collaborate with you to make meaningful progress. Whether this means we need to meet monthly, refer you to a Free Workshop offered by our department, or simply meet once to work on your resume and interview skills, we make sure that your voice is heard and that our support addresses your needs.
You can remain in touch with the Employment Transitions Facilitator for up to 1 year.
Program Details
Cost: Free
Start Date: Ongoing
Program Length:
1 Year From Intake
How to Apply:
Application Link Below
Who Should Apply:
This program is best suited to individuals active or graduating from another Creating Opportunities Strategy program, who are more or less job ready but need that extra push through the job search process. If you are unsure about the details of this program, feel free to call our team for clarification. We are always happy to chat!

THE LEARNING PATHWAY

WORKSHOPS

In this workshop, participants will:
• Identify the resume style that best showcases their skills and experience
• Develop the ability to tailor and format a resume for specific positions and organizations
• Learn how to identify and effectively market transferable skills
• Analyze job descriptions to identify key requirements and transferable skills
• Understand the purpose and key components of a cover letter
• Reflect on past experiences to distill and highlight developed skills
• Write accomplishment-based statements that effectively demonstrate skills and experience in job applications
In this workshop, participants will:
• Explore current job market trends and opportunities
• Identify transferable skills and market them effectively
• Create stronger, targeted résumés
• Develop networking and job search strategies
• Strengthen their professional brand and online presence
• Prepare for interviews with confidence
This workshop aims to help participants:
• Explore career options that align with their skills, interests, and goals
• Identify strengths, values, and transferable skills
• Research occupations, industries, and labour market opportunities
• Create a personalized career plan with achievable goals
• Identify education, training, and employment pathways
• Develop an action plan to support their career journey
This workshop aims to help participants:
• Understand Canadian workplace expectations and culture
• Develop communication, teamwork, and professional skills
• Build confidence in navigating workplace relationships
• Strengthen soft skills valued by Canadian employers
• Learn strategies for workplace success and career growth
• Understand workplace rights, responsibilities, and expectations
These workshops aims to help participants:
• Understand workplace rights, responsibilities, and expectations
• Develop communication and conflict resolution skills
• Explore workplace accommodations, accessibility, and inclusion
• Learn strategies for managing stress and maintaining wellbeing at work
• Build confidence in navigating workplace relationships and challenges
• Understand how diverse strengths and experiences contribute to workplace success

The Free Public Workshop Series (Learning Pathway) is designed to provide participants with opportunities to develop skills and improve employability through short-term offerings while eliminating financial barriers. These offerings include skills-training workshops, free certifications, information sessions with employers actively hiring, and much more.

Browse the interactive calendar below to explore the wide range of opportunities offered through the Creating Opportunities Strategy and click on any workshop to register.

certification PROGRAMS

This free training opportunity equips participants with the knowledge and practical skills needed to respond to a variety of emergency situations. Participants will learn essential first aid and CPR techniques, gain hands-on experience, and earn a recognized certification that is valued by employers across many industries.
This free training opportunity provides participants with an introduction to the Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS). Participants will learn how to identify workplace hazards, safely handle hazardous materials, understand safety labels and Safety Data Sheets (SDS), and contribute to a safe and healthy work environment. Upon successful completion, participants will receive a WHMIS certification recognized by employers across a variety of industries.
These free training opportunities provide participants with the knowledge required to work in industries that involve the sale and service of alcohol or cannabis.
Serve It Right Saskatchewan teaches participants about responsible alcohol service, legal requirements, and strategies for preventing alcohol-related harm in licensed establishments.
CannaSell SK focuses on the responsible sale of cannabis, including Saskatchewan regulations, product knowledge, age verification requirements, and best practices for promoting safe and informed consumption.
Upon successful completion, participants will receive certifications recognized by employers throughout Saskatchewan.
This free training opportunity helps participants develop the customer service skills needed to create positive customer experiences in a variety of workplace settings. Participants will learn effective communication techniques, strategies for handling customer concerns, and best practices for delivering professional and respectful service. Upon successful completion, participants will receive a certification recognized by employers across Saskatchewan.
This free training opportunity provides participants with the knowledge and skills needed to safely handle, prepare, and serve food in a variety of workplace settings. Participants will learn about foodborne illnesses, proper food handling procedures, sanitation practices, temperature control, and food safety regulations. Upon successful completion, participants will receive a certification recognized by employers in the food service and hospitality industries.