Explore the First Work power of collective advancement through our members.
First Work members are unique in many ways. From a joint-focus on servicing vulnerable populations and our multi-sector partnerships, to delivery in the most remote parts of Ontario with limited resources, our membership proudly ensures jobseekers – especially youth and newcomers – across the province have access to quality services to reach meaningful employment.
Our members serve all populations, with the majority being focused on youth and newcomers, but also including seniors, refugees, and Indigenous communities.
Why Be a Member
First Work sits at the heart of a growing network of members and industry partners, based throughout Ontario, collaborating to benefit jobseekers and local economies across the province.
We are employment providers, employment training centres, community-based providers, industry specialists, youth and workforce directed research teams, educators, businesses supporting youth employment, and affiliates who are looking to contribute to a healthy employment landscape.
Established in 1988, First Work has continued to evolve over the past decades to remain innovative and nimble to meet the needs of youth and the sector. Together with our members, we are committed to delivering accessible, high-quality, outcomes-based employment services to young people to support their employment and life goals.
Strategic Membership
Eligibility
- Non-Profits
- “Community-Based” Organizations (non-legislated)
- Those who are delivering services to youth
Benefits
- Voting rights at Annual General Meeting and eligibility for Board seats
- Input to and influence of Government Relations that affect youth employment
- Input to and influence of Strategic Communications that affect youth employment
- Influence on and ability to participate in Professional Development Opportunities (e.g., conferences, webinars, certifications)
- Participation at Regional Meetings
- Discounted membership rates to Professional Development Opportunities
Stakeholder Membership
Category 1
Eligibility
- Legislated Non-Profit Groups (e.g. Colleges, Municipalities)
- Organizations involved in delivering Youth Employment Projects (Skills Link operators, United Way, Foundations)
- Other Non-Profits* (organizations that don’t deliver direct service such as, Workforce Development Boards, LEPCs, Social Enterprises)
Benefits
- Input to Government Relations that affect youth employment
- Input to Strategic Communications that affect youth employment
- Access to Professional Development activities (e.g., conferences)
- Receipt of FW communications, publications & member updates
- Invitation to Regional tables – no voting rights
Stakeholder Membership
Category 2
Eligibility
- For profit organizations with direct link to youth employment programs (e.g. For-profit service deliverers)
- Corporate entities interested in partnership for youth workforce development (e.g. RBC, Rogers, BDC etc.)
Set fee of $1500.00
Benefits
- Receipt of FW communications, publications & member updates
Individual Membership
Eligibility
- Career professionals in private practice
- Students in related disciplines.
Benefits
- Access to Professional Development activities (e.g. conferences)
- Receipt of FW communications, publications & member updates
Fees
| Membership Category | Defining Factor | Annual Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Strategic Membership – Tier 1 | Annual Operating Budget > $1M | $1,500 |
| Strategic Membership – Tier 2 | Annual Operating Budget $500K – $1M | $1,200 |
| Strategic Membership – Tier 3 | Annual Operating Budget ≤ $500K | $900 |
| Stakeholder Membership – Category 1 | Legislated Non-Profit Groups; Organizations involved in delivering Youth Employment Projects; Other Non-Profits that do not deliver direct services | $1,000 |
| Stakeholder Membership – Category 2 | For profit organizations with direct link to youth employment programs; Corporates looking to partner for youth workforce development | $1,500 |
| Individual Members | Career professionals in private practice; Students in related disciplines. | $500 |
