
Support for Next Steps
Our employment and training programs focus on empowering individuals to seek diverse employment opportunities through tailored programs that address unique needs and cultivate a wide range of skills. We strive to create an environment where individuals can explore, learn and thrive in various professional spheres.
WorkBC
If you are legally allowed to work in BC and are unemployed or underemployed, we offer guidance, assistance and potential financial support for eligible individuals. This support includes expenses related to training programs, job searches or starting a job. Financial assistance may also be available for individuals with disabilities at significant risk of losing employment due to their disability. Please note, some eligibility criteria may apply. You are also eligible if you are employed or self-employed in a job that is unlikely to continue long-term and has irregular hours of work (e.g., casual work, on-call work).
Free access to:
- Computers and printers
- Photocopiers
- Faxes
- Employment workshops
- Expert advice from certified career development and recruitment professionals
Support may include:
- Certificates, like FoodSafe, WHMIS or First Aid
- Job start support
- Transportation support
- Self-employment training
- Wage subsidy
- Long-term training for high-demand jobs
- One-on-one employment coaching and planning
Locations
Sidney
9860 Third St.
Hours
Monday 8:30am-7:00pm
Tuesday-Friday 8:30am–4:30pm
Salt Spring Island
268 Fulford Ganges Rd.
Hours
Tuesday & Thursday 9am–5:00pm
Wednesday 10:30am–6:30pm
Central Saanich (Brentwood Bay)
7060 West Saanich Rd.
Hours
Wednesday 9:00am–4:30pm
Closed 12:30pm–1:30pm
BEAMS
BEAMS (Beacon’s Empathetic and Aspirational Method of Service) – a unique pilot project designed to assist community members eligible to work in BC, who may be experiencing challenges to employment due to mental health, unstable housing, and/or substance use. We welcome individuals to stop by our drop-in centre at 1452 Elford Street, connect with our team, have a coffee and snack, and explore the activities and programming we have available to build community connections and employment readiness. The BEAMS team can also provide outreach in community, tailoring our services to meet the needs of the individual. Eligibility criteria may apply to some available supports.
Free access to:
- Drop-In Centre activities
- Computers and printers
- Refreshments, snacks and light meals
- Employment Readiness Workshops
Support may include:
- Support for referrals and applications to community agencies and programs
- Life-skills & personal wellness support
- Indigenous Elder cultural support
- Food and transportation
- Short-term training and certification
- Computer skills
- One-on-one employment coaching and planning
- Volunteer experiences
- Paid group work experiences
Location
1452 Elford Street, Victoria, BC
Hours
Drop-In Centre: Mondays, Tuesdays & Thursdays 10:30am-4:30pm
Office: Monday-Friday 9:00am-4:30pm

Cashier Training Course
Beacon proudly provides free support for retail work preparation through our Cashier Training program, a three-week course offered in partnership with the United Way. Learn register operation, customer service skills and workplace safety. This program is typically held at our Pandora Ave. thrift shop a few times a year.