On Thursday morning (June 22), the Carrefour jeunesse-emploi du Pontiac held their annual general meeting, where they discussed the work done by their staff across several different programs. The non-profit organization specializes in helping break down the barriers for youth and adults to find employment by subsidizing employee training, working with students in schools and even offering paid work experiences through their Sortir du Bois program.

The head of each program walked attendees through their work. The CJE's programs are often multi-faceted, as participants in the Sortir du Bois program are working full-time, but also have access to an employment counsellor for help with resume writing or obtaining a drivers license, for example.

Jessica Kelly, an intervention services coordinator, explained that they also had participants share their experiences with the various programs the group has to offer.

There was a slight change up on the board of directors, with Jennifer Dubeau, departing, being replaced by Debra Stephens. Stephens, the outgoing principal at Pontiac High School, will be taking on a new role as the head of the Pontiac Continuing Education Center, taking over Dubeau's former position. Kelly said that it was key to have members of their board with a wealth of experience in local education institutions.

Kelly was recognized for 10 years of service with the organization and Emilie Demers, a counsellor with the Sortir du Bois program was recognized for 5 years.

The full annual report for the CJEP is available here: Rapport annuel CJEP 2023 CJEP