START Customer Care Success Story: Kim, Administrative Assistant, START Alumni 

Kim came to Canada from Grenada leaving her young son and family behind. Once she arrived in Canada, she struggled to make ends meet. With only a high school education and no formal work experience, Kim was unable to find a reliable job with a consistent income to support herself. Kim soon found herself living in a shelter with her new baby. During this time, she fought depression and faced what felt like insurmountable barriers to finding employment. 

Kim worked odd jobs to try and support her family. She also volunteered her time as an office assistant and treasurer at her church. Kim wanted to take some positive steps for herself to improve her situation. Through the guidance of her Ontario Works representative, Kim came to ACCES to enroll in the START Customer Care program, a program focused on helping women to re-enter the workforce. 

Kim did not have any job search experience. She did not know how to write a resume and cover letter and had never participated in a formal interview. The START program helped her get started and equipped her with these important skills to find employment. Kim also gained valuable information about the Customer Care field. 

“The instructors and program support staff for the START program were amazing. The support I received truly made a difference in my life. After the program was complete, I went to ACCES once a week for help to customize my resume and cover letter for job applications. When I received an interview opportunity, I wasn’t nervous because of the preparation I had received,” said Kim. 

Kim graduated from the program and was determined to find employment. She was passionate about helping others and wanted to find a role that would allow her to give back to her community. ACCES guided Kim through the application process for the Investing in Neighbourhood’s Initiative. 

Kim was hired as an administrative assistant at shortly after. 

“I love the role. I love going to work. It is challenging, never boring and I get to meet all kinds of people. I can really relate to them and I am happy to be able to help them. My motto is ‘where there is life, there is hope. Never give up.’ For women in particular, push yourself and keep trying. There are a number of resources available, try different things and see if it works for you.”