A program to serve UVic students who identify as having a disability or mental health challenge to engage in meaningful, paid, relevant work experience during their degrees

Through the program, Job Coaches can support participants while on their work sites, helping students master their tasks, achieve independence and contribute to the workplace. As part of this program, participants’ employment readiness will be measured pre- and post-employment. CanWork supports UVic students through delivery of the Introduction to Professional Practice course with added modules to help students further their understanding of rights, accommodations and disclosure. 

In order to be eligible, you must meet the following requirements: 

Have or intend to declare a major in an undergraduate program where participation in co-op is optional

Be of at least 2nd year status or higher

Be a registered UVIC student

CanWork is built on the successful employment programs TeenWork and AccessWork. CanAssist, dedicated to supporting people with disabilities improve their quality of life, rolled out TeenWork in 2009 and has since supported 140+ young adults with disabilities find and retain part-time employment.

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We believe that searching for and retaining employment sets youth up for more financial independence, it teaches transferable skills and enables participants to expand their employability.

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Job Coaches will provide individualized support throughout every step of the program, and are able to support participants on-site to ensure everyone is set up for success.