EDMONTON, ALBERTA – November 28, 2022. Forces@WORK: First Responders a new career-transitions pilot-program, gives Alberta-based First Responders transitioning out of their chosen career, the right supports to ensure successful transitions into work and life beyond the uniform. The first-of-its-kind in Canada, the program is designed to address the unique challenges First Responders experience when seeking a new career.

Created by Prospect Human Services (Prospect) and funded by Alberta Community and Social Services, Forces@WORK: First Responders is built on the framework of Prospect’s highly successful Forces@WORK program launched in 2011 for military veterans, Reservists and their families. Forces@WORK: First Responders combines practical tools and skills along with a work experience component to support individuals in successfully moving forward with their lives.

“We know from our work with veterans that no matter the reason an individual is leaving active duty, they will face both physical and psychological challenges that can hinder successful transitions into their next career,” says Kevin McNichol, CEO, Prospect. Forces@WORK: First Responders is designed to help individuals identify and break through those barriers so they can successfully build a second career of their choosing.

Minister of Seniors, Community and Social Services, Jeremy Nixon says, “Prospect is an incredible organization that provides incredible services. They continue to support thousands of Albertans in overcoming employment barriers they face. With this new program, Prospect will be providing support for our local heroes who have dedicated their careers to helping others as first responders. Their service is invaluable, but does not come without a price. Challenges faced may include trauma, mental illness, or injury and it is important that these individuals receive the support they need. Alberta’s government is proud to be partnered with Prospect as they continue to serve thousands across the province.”

Delivered through group and individual activities, participants are able to build their identity outside of the close fraternity of their former uniformed service while helping them identify and leverage transferrable skills gained on the front lines. The program will also engage employers through its work experience component.

“Leveraging the knowledge of Prospect’s professional career advisor team in the Forces@WORK program in 2012, greatly enabled me to better understand all the factors involved in negotiating an employment agreement. Their assistance helped me secure a great paying job, where my CAF service was respected and transitional skills put to good use,” says Major (retired) David Blackburn, who now serves as Prospect’s Director of Military Employment Services.

The two-year pilot program is anticipated to support approximately 80 participants and will run until March 2024.

For more information contact:

David S. Blackburn
Director, Military Services; Senior Manager, Program Operations, Prospect
Direct _780.975.0311
_David.blackburn@prospectnow.ca

Louise Gallagher
Director, Communications, Prospect
Cell 587.434.9794
louise.gallagher@prospectnow.ca