From Unemployed to Empowered: How KEYS Helps Change Lives

Apr 30, 2025

This story is inspired by the real experiences of many individuals who have walked through the doors of KEYS. While "John" is not one real person, his journey reflects the challenges, determination, and successes we see every day among the job seekers we support.

After more than six months of being out of work, John found himself discouraged and uncertain about the future. Living in a rural community in Frontenac County, where job opportunities can be limited and transportation challenges are real, John wasn’t sure where to turn. That’s when he came to KEYS Employment Services in Sharbot Lake.

At KEYS, John was matched with an Employment Advisor who helped him identify a clear goal: to return to work as a general construction labourer. John had previous experience in the field and a strong work ethic, but he needed support to get job ready. Together, they worked on updating his resume, highlighting the practical skills and experience he had gained over the years.

But like many job seekers in rural areas, John faced barriers beyond just paperwork. His car, essential for getting to job sites, needed repairs. Without a reliable vehicle, many local opportunities were simply out of reach. KEYS was able to step in and provide financial support to cover the cost of the car repairs. They also helped purchase John a new pair of work boots – a costly requirement for construction work.

Once those practical hurdles were cleared, John was referred to a KEYS Job Developer, whose role is to build relationships with local employers and connect them with job seekers. The Job Developer took time to understand John’s strengths and his eagerness to get back to work. With that insight, they began reaching out to local contractors, promoting John’s reliability and experience.

It often takes more than three months for the average job seeker to secure employment—and even longer in rural areas where fewer opportunities exist. But with targeted support, strong community employer connections, and John’s own motivation, he was hired within just three weeks.

The job John landed offered more than just a paycheque. It gave him a renewed sense of confidence and purpose. He was back in the field he enjoyed, working with his hands, and contributing to the kind of projects that build our communities.

Stories like John’s show how meaningful support at the right time can make all the difference. KEYS takes a holistic approach—offering one-on-one advising, financial assistance when needed, and proactive outreach to employers. Their programs are designed to meet people where they are, helping remove the barriers that can keep good workers from finding meaningful employment.

John’s success is a testament to what’s possible when communities work together to support local employment. As KEYS continues to serve Frontenac County and beyond, their goal remains the same: to help every individual move from unemployment to empowerment—one job at a time.

For more information about KEYS services call 613.546.5559 or visit www.keys.ca, or stop by their Sharbot Lake location at 1109 Garrett Street. Their service hours at this location are: In Person: Wednesday & Thursday, 8:30am – 3:30pm and Virtual Appointments: Monday to Friday, 8:30am – 4:00pm. KEYS also has offices in Kingston, and Gananoque (which services the Gananoque/Elgin/Rideau Lakes areas).

About KEYS: We help change lives. With very few exceptions, our programs have no cost. KEYS helps job seekers of all ages and abilities, employers of all sizes, and newcomers from all walks of life. We are a registered charity. We welcome the valuable contributions of our community through donations, and volunteer opportunities across many program areas.