Job Seekers
30 and UnderKeys offers a variety of employment
and programs to those 30 and under.
If you are 30 and under, unemployed and not returning to school, we can help you find a job.
Next STEP (School to Employment Program)
Not sure what’s next after high school?
Explore. Experience. Build Your Future.
Whether you’re considering skilled trades, college, apprenticeship, or exploring options, Next STEP helps you try real careers before deciding.
✔ Hands-on skilled trades experience
✔ Work placement opportunities
✔ Meet employers and mentors
✔ Build confidence and job skills
✔ Get paid while you learn
Your future doesn’t need to be decided today. Take the Next STEP.
Free for eligible high school graduates under 25.
What is Next STEP?
A 5-week career exploration program for recent graduates to gain real experience before choosing college, apprenticeship, or work. Try different paths, build skills, and plan your future with confidence.
Who Can Apply?
Recent high school graduates aged 17–24 who are exploring career options, education, or skilled trades/apprenticeship pathways.
Why Join?
Because it’s easier to choose your future when you’ve experienced it. Don’t guess.
For More Information: Contact KEYS Employment & Newcomer Services
Phone: 613.546.5559 · Email: nextstep@keys.ca
START Here
We deliver the START Here program at our Kingston and Gananoque locations
The program consists of pre-employment training, followed by a supported work placement. Participants get paid for attendance and earn while they work and learn. Keep checking the KEYS website for our next session.
For more information visit one of our KEYS locations or contact us today.
InSight Youth
Mentoring Partnership
The InSight Youth Mentorship Partnership is focused on assisting youth to learn about the world of work, potential career paths and the skills they will need to successfully transition from high school to employment, post-secondary education, apprenticeship, or further training.
Click here for more information.
Michael Harris
Youth Award
This award is not just about funding education: it’s about investing in your dreams – whatever path that takes – funding bold ideas, personal growth, or life-changing opportunities.
Rooted in Michael Harris’ (the founding Executive Director of KEYS), belief that opportunity and mentorship can transform lives, this award invests in bold ideas and future leaders.
The future is wide open, and the Michael Harris Youth Award is here to help you claim it.
Learn more about the award, eligibility requirements, and how to apply.
In Motion & Momentum+
Are you ready to create a vision for your future? If you’re between the ages of 18–30 and are ready for your dream career but don’t know how to start…we can help! In Motion & Momentum+ is a 10 week free program that helps you work on gaining motivation, building goals and getting on the path to your preferred future…And You Will Get Paid to Participate!
The program has 3 parts, in which you will learn:
In Motion:
• Focus on who you are – your strength & skills
• Take charge and create a vision for your future
Momentum:
• Continue to build on your vision for the future & take steps to make it a reality
• Contribute in meaningful ways to your community in collaborations with others
Momentum+:
• Continue to build momentum towards achieving your goals
• Move from planning the life you want to actually living it
Contact Us for more information.
New Horizons Newcomer
Youth Peer-Mentoring Group
New Horizons is a youth-led group that serves refugee and newcomer youth in Kingston, aged 16 to 30, by providing them with opportunities to meet each other, make new friends, share useful information, and have fun!
It is run by two program staff and a small team of youth leaders who also benefit from opportunities to boost their leadership skills and put them into practice while serving their community.
If you are a service provider who is interested in creating a similar program, take a look at our PROGRAM TOOLKIT. You’ll find all the information you need, as well as compelling stories and practical tips.