Over the past week, I had several opportunities to connect with colleagues from across the broader social services sector to discuss our collective priorities. It’s reassuring to see that many of us are navigating similar challenges, and in that shared experience, our advocacy message becomes stronger and more united.

At ASPECT, we continue collaborating with funders, decision-makers, and policymakers to ensure our work focuses on the needs of those seeking and sustaining meaningful employment.

Here are some key themes we explored and how they relate to employment services:

1. A Shared Vision for the Future

In times of uncertainty, such as the current federal funding cuts and the economic strain from the tariff dispute, early investment in employment programs helps people build stability, reduces pressure on crisis services, and strengthens the overall economy.
 
2. Working Together to Support People

Employment needs are closely connected to housing, health, and family life. That’s why coordination between services is critical. When contracts support collaboration and quality, service providers can focus on helping people succeed.
 
3. Smart Way to Fund Services

Community-based employment programs offer local, personalized support that leads to stronger outcomes. These programs connect people to meaningful work and local employers. With funding pressures rising, flexible funding models are more important than ever to reduce waitlists, respond to local needs, and support innovation.
 
4. Clear Communication and Action

We value our partnership with government. In uncertain times, acting on recommendations and sharing information openly helps programs stay responsive and effective. Strong employment services help people find jobs, build skills, and support their families, benefiting communities and the economy.

The argument for investing in social services to reduce health and wellness costs later in the public health pathway is at the heart of the message from the Gen Squeeze Lab at the University of British Columbia's School of Population & Public Health. Their Get Well Canada Toolkit is worth checking out. 

Janet Morris-Reade, CEO
ASPECT BC

Last Friday, I had the pleasure of attending the Western Canadian Career Development (WCCDA) Symposium in Vancouver. It was a great opportunity to reconnect with others in our sector and share ideas and resources. I especially appreciated catching up with Terri-Ann Wynans from the Career Education Society of BC and Lindsay Purchase from CERIC. (Photo: me with Terri-Ann [L] and Lindsay [R].)
 

This week also marked the second meeting of the informal provincial career development associations network—an emerging virtual space where we share updates and strengthen sector collaboration. Special thanks to Gail Langlais for her insightful update on the work of the National Credential Advisory Committee.
 

We also saw the announcement of the new federal cabinet. Honourable Patty Hajdu returns as Minister of Jobs —welcome news as we seek clarity and leadership following the $624 million reduction in federal labour market funding transfers last year. The sector is actively navigating this challenging shift, working to maintain essential services, support inclusive employment, and keep our economy moving despite global economic pressures.
 

Finally, I encourage you to read Imagine Canada’s recent letter to Prime Minister Carney, which includes a link to a strong policy platform for nonprofits. The platform has valuable insights you can use in your own advocacy, whether you're delivering services or shaping policy.

Janet Morris-Reade, CEO
ASPECT BC

Yesterday, I had the opportunity to attend the BC Prior Learning Action Network (BCPLAN) Symposium in Richmond. Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) can be a powerful economic driver, helping individuals move through post-secondary education, achieve credential recognition, and access career pathways without starting from scratch.

The symposium featured a full day of PLAR practices, lived experiences, and innovative approaches to certification.

One standout example came from the Architectural Institute of BC, the regulatory body for architects. They’ve introduced a new pathway to becoming an architect that does not require a post-secondary degree. It’s a novel and exciting application of PLAR, particularly beneficial for internationally trained professionals and those with extensive industry experience. This model offers a promising route forward without the need to spend years in school. I’ll be watching with interest to see if other regulatory bodies follow suit.


Kudos to ASPECT member Raj Brar of PICS, who shared her personal journey of using PLAR to build her career in Canada after immigrating. She spoke about how many newcomers are unaware of PLAR and how it helped open doors for her in her new country.

A good symposium can reignite inspiration in our work, and the BCPLAN event certainly did that for me. I’m looking forward to the Western Canada Career Development Association (formerly the BC Career Development Association) Symposium today, which I’m sure will be just as energizing.

Janet Morris-Reade, CEO
ASPECT BC

Today is the provincial day of remembrance and mourning for the victims of the tragedy at the Lapu Lapu Day Festival. The tragedy took place less than a week ago, and many are still mourning the loss of life, the impact on families, and the sense of threat to communities.

For many of us who didn’t learn about the attack until the following morning, we awoke to world news coverage and messages from family and friends overseas. There was global shock that something like this could happen here in BC. But the reality is that mental health challenges are something we collectively grapple with—across communities, cultures, and borders.

As we remember those we’ve lost and hold space for those affected, we are reminded of the critical need for stronger, more accessible mental health supports. In the employment services sector, we see this every day: job seekers dealing with trauma, newcomers managing transition stress, and frontline staff carrying heavy emotional loads.

At ASPECT, we continue to advocate for trauma-informed practices, mental health training, and policies that support both clients and those who serve them. Today’s remembrance is a solemn reminder that this work is not only necessary—it’s urgent.

Let us take this time to reflect, support one another, and recommit to building safe, compassionate communities for all.

The provincial government has released a list of resources. You can also sign the digital condolence book.

The Federation of Community Social Services of BC is offering a free webinar: Get Well Canada Toolkit for Social Services Community Organizations in BC on May 15, 2025. 

Janet Morris-Reade, CEO
ASPECT BC

It's been a busy week here at ASPECT, and the coming weeks will be even busier. Here's a brief update:

This Week:

Conference Presentation Proposals: We received many excellent presenter proposals, which makes me excited about the upcoming conference in November. Thanks to everyone who submitted, and we will get back to you shortly. There are so many interesting topics!

Member Meeting Non-WorkBC Contractors: Our meeting yesterday was a good discussion about the future of contracts as the funding and contracting environment changes. We identified some gaps in understanding and possible threats to community services. More action is coming soon.

Trainer Portal Live:  Our Trainer and Course registration portal for the BCSocialCareTraining.ca website is now live. It will take some time to fill out the site with trainers and courses, but I encourage you to see if you offer training that meets the in-demand competencies on the site. Also, live is the training grant portal providing funds for supervisor training. This is a perfect opportunity to build your training business and to build your organization's operational capacity. 

Next Week and the Following Week:

ASPECT AGM: Join us for our virtual 2024 Annual General Meeting on Thursday, April 17, at 10:30 a.m. 

ASPECT Members' Meeting for YESS Contractors: Members can register now for the YESS contractors' discussion on Tuesday, April 22, at 2:30 p.m.

If you feel left out of these ASPECT member meetings, please consider joining ASPECT. For current members, ASPECT has a member referral program to help us spread the word.

Janet Morris-Reade, CEO
ASPECT BC

Lately, I've been questioning the validity of the news I read and the content algorithms on social media. Without varied perspectives, I'm starting to wonder if I might be living in an echo chamber.

With the federal election on April 28 approaching, I have found some resources that might interest you as you prepare to vote, giving you the perspective to question the truth behind some of the statements coming out in the media:

• Vantage Point Webinar: Check out "A New Political Landscape: Government Relations for Non-Profits in BC," by conservative strategist Kareem M. Allam from the Richardson Strategy Group in February. Mr. Allam talks about the challenges of coalition political parties and how quickly situations can change. You can watch the webinar here.
   
• Storm the Ballot Box: This book by Jo-Ann Roberts offers a behind-the-scenes look at her campaign on the NDP ticket during the 2015 federal election. It's a fascinating glimpse into election politics, providing a deeper understanding of the process and how one legacy post can dash a candidate's position, with fallout felt by all in the riding.
   
• CBC News: CBC has released a video detailing their fact-checking process, which you can view here. I'm surprised by the efforts to test and track assertions on all media platforms.
   
• Government of Canada: Offers excellent resources on spotting disinformation and recommends fact-checking sites like MediaSmarts, AFP Fact Check, and Snopes. It's fun to see debunked assertions.

As we head towards the election, I'm trying to sift through all the noise myself—it's a jungle out there! Staying on top of things in our ever-shifting media landscape is important. Feel free to check out these resources and others. With a bit of curiosity and a healthy dose of skepticism, we can hopefully make sense of it all and ensure our decisions reflect our true intentions.

ASPECT is and continues to be an apolitical organization. It has a history of working with all governments and perspectives, representing the diversity of its members.

Janet Morris-Reade, CEO
ASPECT BC

We confront a pressing reality on this International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination. Around us, initiatives that have championed justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion face serious threats, especially visible in the United States, where the progress of generations is being systematically rolled back. This situation begs a vital question: What can we do together to firmly shut the door on discrimination and hate?

In truth, the answer lies not solely in the hands of any single organization or entity but in our collective action and resolve. Each of us has a role; every voice matters, and every action counts. Together, we can drown out the noise of division and intolerance.

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the scale of the challenge. Yet, I believe today is also a day filled with opportunity—an opportunity to bolster our resolve and to support one another in our shared quest for a just and equitable society. Our solidarity is our most powerful tool. It binds and moves us forward, turning individual whispers into a powerful roar.

Let us pledge to be vigilant, to support those who face prejudice, and to act with kindness and understanding. Today, let’s renew our commitment to a world where everyone is valued, where diversity is embraced as a strength, and where the shadows of discrimination find no place to hide.

Janet Morris-Reade, CEO
ASPECT BC

A few weeks ago, I told you about an upcoming virtual workshop series built on research conducted by ASPECT members Free Rein Associates Ltd. and Life Strategies Ltd. called Diversity Disconnect: Job Acquisition and Maintenance Factors for Indigenous Peoples & Individuals with Diverse Abilities. Part lessons learned and part practical strategies for employers, CDPs, and community leaders, I now have information and registration links for this pan-Canadian workshop series that's free for all to attend.

The best news yet is that all workshops are mapped to the National Competency Profile for CDPs and are eligible for education credits toward the new CCDP®  certification.  

Anyone can attend any session, but some sessions are focuses for certain audiences. 

1. Workforce Realities in Rural Communities: Understanding the Gaps - April 1  - for frontline staff and case managers.
2. The Curious Case of Inclusivity: Building Strong Training for Everyone - April 8 - for career development managers and facilitators.
3. The Future of DEI: What it Means for Your Workforce - April 15 - for employers and everyone.
4. Strengthening Indigenous Employment Outcomes in Rural Communities - April 29 - for everyone, especially CDPs and employers working with Indigenous job-seekers.
5. Inclusion en millieu de travail dans les communautés francophones - May 13 - for frontline staff, case managers, managers, and facilitators in Francophone communities
6. Building Sustainable Solutions: Aligning Policies with Workforce Realities - May 27 - for policy influencers, managers, frontline staff, and case managers.

Register now through Eventbrite.

Thanks to Free Rein Associates Ltd. and Life Strategies Ltd. for allowing ASPECT to host these sessions. Please share with your networks across Canada.

Janet Morris-Reade, CEO

Earlier this week, the U.S. escalated its economic strategy with steep tariffs, and the provincial government released its 2025 budget, setting aside a $4 billion contingency fund. For those of us in employment services and career development, the year ahead feels uncertain—job losses are expected while contracts are being cut, renegotiated, and reimagined. If you're feeling uneasy, you're not alone.  

I want to acknowledge the hard work of our politicians and public servants during this challenging time. The decisions ahead are tough, with no clear roadmap, especially as we navigate the impact of an unpredictable political leader making ad hoc decisions about our future. As I write this, there's a new announcement of adjusting tariff deadlines on certain products while Canada holds firm on its countermeasures. Calling the situation “dynamic” hardly captures the uncertainty we face.  

What we can do:  

Advocate for vulnerable clients. Identify gaps in the services they rely on and let us know so we can advocate on their behalf. Cuts to settlement services are just the start—we expect further reductions to wrap-around supports for employment and community connection. You don’t have to be the lone voice speaking up.  

Support employers and industries. Help them navigate employment challenges, and share what you learn with MLAs, government contacts, and ASPECT so we can coordinate a collective response. Employment services and local economic development support are more critical than ever.  

Take care of each other. Burnout remains a challenge. Stay connected, share experiences, and support one another, including our government colleagues.  

We've been here before, and by working together, we can navigate whatever comes next. Starting in April, ASPECT will hold regular member meetings to share updates, collaborate, and prepare our communities. We’ll also work with our provincial and pan-Canadian counterparts to find solutions.  

Collectively, we have deep expertise, experience, and compassion. Your insight is needed now more than ever—let’s move forward together.

Janet Morris-Reade, CEO

ASPECT is delighted to launch consultations to expand our Refocusing the Urban Lens for Rural & Remote Employment Services research to include a pan-Canadian and supported employment services perspective. 

Thanks to a research grant from the Canadian Association of Supportive Employment, we will hold consultation sessions across Canada. These virtual sessions are 55 minutes long and will include a review of our findings from our rural and remote report, followed by a discussion answering three research questions.

If you work in a rural or remote community delivering services to those with disabilities, we would like to hear from you. You can register for one of the sessions in your area below:

BC  - Refocusing the Urban Lens for Rural and Remote Supported Employment Services
Thursday, February 27, 2025 @ noon Pacific Time
Registration Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/k_y9EdQrR0KsvEA0ZjAdEQ
 
Alberta  - Refocusing the Urban Lens for Rural and Remote Supported Employment Services
Tuesday, March 4, 2025 @ noon Mountain Time
Registration Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/xn1xifOTS1CBGtSZqImw3Q
 
Ontario  -  Refocusing the Urban Lens for Rural and Remote Supported Employment Services
Wednesday, March 5, 2025 @ noon Eastern Time
Registration Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/iPi44MNMTHafO12-rZqz6g
 
Quebec (in French) - Recentrer l'optique urbaine pour les services d'emploi assisté en milieu rural et éloigné
Thursday, March 6, 2025 @ noon Eastern Time
Registration Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/SMNHMHHwQrWuFw5YJar4QQ

If your province isn't listed and you can gather a group of at least 10 rural and remote supported employment service providers, let me know. Through the grant, ASPECT can provide compensation for organizations helping recruit participants in your area. Thanks to the Canadian Coalition of Community-Based Employability Training (CCCBET) members -- First Work Ontario, AXTRA - Alliance des centres-conseils en emploi Quebec, and the Private Career Development Contractors Association of Alberta -- who have already come on board. Consultation sessions will take place between February 27 - March 10, 2025.

Janet Morris-Reade
CEO