The Red Deer summer jobs office for students won’t open its doors in the spring like it used to.
Instead of going to the Service Canada Centre for Youth (formerly known as Hire-a-Student), youth will have to rely on information about jobs through an online site.
Alyson Queen, director of communications for Service Canada Centres for Youth, said the number of students visiting the seasonal centres in person has decreased significantly over the last few years, making them less effective and relevant for today’s youth.
Young Canadians will still be able to receive help in person all year through Service Canada locations.
“However, youth across the country have told us they want to access more government services online, including help with job searches and resume writing,” said Queen.
Alyssa Kathol, vice-president of student life with the Students’ Association at Red Deer College, said the change to online services is fine.
“A lot of young people are very competent and are using the technology more — so I think they’ll still be able to access it,” said Kathol.
She’s also glad the service will be on hand at Service Canada offices, so that the few people without Internet access will be able to visit there.
Red Deer’s office is at 101 4901 46th St.
The federal government is expanding www.youth.gc.ca with new resources to help youth find employment, she added.
“By enhancing the online features on www.youth.gc.ca, and offering services at Service Canada offices, there is no longer the need for these seasonal, temporary locations to be established,” Queen said.
Online enhancements include having tips on writing resumes and cover letters.
Plus, Working in Canada’s current information about jobs will be available through the online website.
A blog for youth called Voice is also available.
“It aims to answer questions and help youth find the information and tools they need to reach their goals,” said Queen.
Social media tools, such as Twitter and YouTube, will be added in the coming months.
ltester@www.reddeeradvocate.com