Consultations may not always give us immediate answers, but they are essential in shaping the policies, programs, and funding decisions that impact our sector. Your input—whether through a formal submission or a quick online survey—helps ensure community-based voices are at the table.

Last week, I spoke with Assistant Deputy Minister Karen Blackman from the Employment & Labour Market Services Division at the Ministry of Social Development and Poverty Reduction. She shared that early responses to the Future of WorkBC engagement have been strong, but they are hearing far less from employers. That concerns me.

This is where you can help.

As community-based employment service providers, you are uniquely positioned to connect with employers and economic development networks. Please encourage the employers in your community to complete the survey and share their insights. Their input is vital to designing programs that truly reflect the realities of today’s workforce.

Here are three key consultations open right now:
 

• The Future of WorkBC Engagement
  Survey and group consultations open until July 31
   

• 2025 State of BC’s Non-Profit Sector Survey
  Takes 20 minutes. Open until July 30
   

• Federal Pre-Budget 2025 Consultation
  Survey and submissions accepted until August 28
   

Let’s make sure our collective expertise is heard—whether or not we see the final report. ASPECT can speak up for you, but sometimes the voices of the many need to participate.
 

Janet Morris-Reade, CEO
ASPECT BC