Grande Prairie Region YMCA
15–30yrs
Bridging the Gap is a 20-week employment readiness program which enhances the skills of young job-seeking Albertans through a combination of an intensive training program as well as a 12-week work experience provided by industry professionals just like you.
Certifications such as First Aid, CPR and WHMIS, as well as topics such as workplace communication, computer literacy, customer relations, and personal development are all covered with the training program to ensure that participants are well prepared for the evolving job market.
Eligibility
- Between the ages of 15-30 years
- A Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or refugee
- Legally entited to work in Canada
- Legally entitled to work according to provincial legislation and regulations
For Participants & Youth
When you are ready to get back on track for a better future with greater prospects for work, money and stability, Bridging the Gap may be what you need to get started.

Inspiration from past participants
“BTG helps me get back into the routine of the work force and get back into the routine of being productive every day.” ~ Ryan
“Doing something productive everyday helps us to keep busy and to stay out of trouble.” ~ Will and Aurea
“Bridging the Gap taught me that it’s worth it to feel worth it. I feel like I really have something to offer now.” ~ Jordan
View the Info Sheet
For Employers
Learn how Bridging the Gap can benefit your company while you help shape the lives of young professionals.

View the Employer Agreement Information
For more information contact:
Erin Brann
Program Director - Bridging the Gap Program
YMCA of Northern Alberta | Edmonton | Grande Prairie | Wood Buffalo
780-357-7442
Sarah Watchorn
Program Coordinator - Bridging the Gap Program
YMCA of Northern Alberta | Grande Prairie Region
780-357-7448
*Funded by the Government of Canada.

BTG Employers Needed
Bridging the Gap is a 20-week employment readiness program which enhances the skills of young job-seeking Albertans through a combination of an intensive 240 hour training program as well as an 8-week work experience provided by industry professionals just like you. As a BTG employer, your benefits include: an employee who is certified in WHMIS, First Aid and CPR | an individual who has received approx. 240-hours of employment skills training | reimbursement to you for half their wage (up to minimum wage) | and more!

Opportunity Fund
The YMCA is Open to Everyone - Everyone deserves a chance.
Through the Opportunity Fund, the YMCA membership and program eperience is available to families regardless of their ability to pay the full fees. Drop in and ask how you can get started! If you know someone who could benefit from this program, please let them know.

Calling all Youth!
Come volunteer with the YMCA! As a charity, the YMCA relies on it's volunteers to help us provide community program support. Our youth volunteer opportunities include programs like Leaders in Training (LITs), Counsellors in Training (CITs), Youth Advisory Council (YAC) and Young Leaders Advisory Council (YLAC).