She Had Never Applied For A Job - Now She Has One

Alwynne L. from Cowichan Tribes (Left), Noel C. (RISE participant) and Amy Worth, Program Manager, RISE Celebrating success with a sweet treat!

When she first connected with the RISE program through Cowichan Tribes, Noel was 20 years old and ready for change—but unsure where to begin.

Living on reserve and navigating the transition into adulthood, she had big goals: employment, independence, and building a stable future. But like many youth, Noel didn’t yet have access to the tools needed to get there. She had never written a resume, applied for a job, or participated in formal work experience.

What Noel did have was motivation—and the willingness to show up.

Since joining RISE in April, she has done just that.

Week after week, Noel began volunteering with Nourish Cowichan. Through this consistent commitment, she built routine, confidence, and meaningful connections within her community. At the same time, she participated in RISE workshops focused on employment readiness—developing a resume, writing a cover letter, and preparing for interviews.

With support from staff, Noel completed her first resume and cover letter. Then, she took an important step forward: she applied for jobs on her own.

One of those applications stood out.

Noel was invited for an interview—and offered a job on the spot.

Today, Noel is working at a local grocery store while continuing to volunteer in her community. She is building independence in new ways as well, including working toward her driver’s license and strengthening her ability to get to work through access to a bicycle.

Her story is one of resilience, growth, and what becomes possible when young people are met with consistent, strengths‑based support.

The Bigger Picture: What RISE Makes Possible

Noel's journey is not unique—and that’s exactly why RISE exists.

RISE (Resilience, Independence, Skills & Empowerment) is a youth support program designed to walk alongside young people aged 15–24 as they navigate the transition to adulthood. Through personalized, wraparound support over up to two years, youth build the skills, confidence, and stability needed to move toward employment, housing, and independence.

If this story resonates with you, we invite you to learn more and consider how you might support more youth in reaching their goals.