Career Advancement & Resources for Employment Success (CARES)
A no-cost, fully funded employment program that helps parents in Edmonton build skills, overcome employment barriers, and move confidently toward meaningful, long-term work.
About Lifemark CARES program
If you're ready to work but facing barriers like childcare challenges, limited experience, transportation challenges, or irregular hours, you’re not alone and you don’t have to navigate it alone.
CARES is a free employment support program for Edmonton residents designed to help you rebuild your confidence, strengthen your skills, and prepare for a job that fits your life. Through practical tools, 1:1 guidance, and customized training, you’ll gain what you need to move forward feeling supported and empowered.
This program is fully funded by the Province of Alberta, in partnership with the Government of Canada, to provide no-cost employment support services to eligible Albertans.
What you’ll get with the CARES Program
CARES is a 12–16 week employment and skills training program, delivered in-person, virtually, or through a hybrid model, all at no cost to you.
Career development and skills training
- Workshops to help you identify your goals and build confidence
- Industry-specific training to prepare you for the jobs you want
- Employment certifications that help your resume stand out (First Aid, safety, software training)
Real experience and job opportunities
- Support connecting to volunteer placements and work experience opportunities
- Access to job openings and employer connections
- Ongoing guidance from employment specialists who advocate for your success
Wrap-around supports that make life easier
- Access to kinesiology, mental health services and additional supports
- Practical resources that reduce daily barriers:
- Clothing Closet (interview and work attire)
- Food Pantry
- Community Kitchen
- Resource Centre
- Virtual Career Centre
These supports help you feel prepared, capable, and ready to take your next step toward meaningful employment.
Who is eligible for the CARES program?
You may qualify for this free Alberta employment program if you:
- Are a parent or guardian who wants to return to work or improve your work situation
- Are unemployed, underemployed, or marginally employed
- Live in the Edmonton region
- Are 18 or older and legally eligible to work in Canada
- Are experiencing barriers like childcare challenges, limited experience, working irregular shifts, or transportation issues
If you're unsure, reach out and we’ll help you understand your options.
Why join the CARES Program?
CARES isn’t just a program, it’s a partner in your success. When you join, you benefit from:
- A personalized employment plan built around your goals
- Training and certifications that open new career opportunities
- 1:1 guidance from people who believe in your potential
- A welcoming, judgment-free environment
- Real connections to employers and work opportunities
- Community and support that help you manage life while you grow
Whether you’re starting fresh or looking to make a change, CARES gives you the stepping stones to a more stable and fulfilling future.
What you’ll get with the CARES Program
CARES is a 12–16 week employment and skills training program, delivered in-person, virtually, or through a hybrid model, all at no cost to you.
Career development and skills training
- Workshops to help you identify your goals and build confidence
- Industry-specific training to prepare you for the jobs you want
- Employment certifications that help your resume stand out (First Aid, safety, software training)
Real experience and job opportunities
- Support connecting to volunteer placements and work experience opportunities
- Access to job openings and employer connections
- Ongoing guidance from employment specialists who advocate for your success
Wrap-around supports that make life easier
- Access to kinesiology, mental health services and additional supports
- Practical resources that reduce daily barriers:
- Clothing Closet (interview and work attire)
- Food Pantry
- Community Kitchen
- Resource Centre
- Virtual Career Centre
These supports help you feel prepared, capable, and ready to take your next step toward meaningful employment.
Who is eligible for the CARES program?
You may qualify for this free Alberta employment program if you:
- Are a parent or guardian who wants to return to work or improve your work situation
- Are unemployed, underemployed, or marginally employed
- Live in the Edmonton region
- Are 18 or older and legally eligible to work in Canada
- Are experiencing barriers like childcare challenges, limited experience, working irregular shifts, or transportation issues
If you're unsure, reach out and we’ll help you understand your options.
Why join the CARES Program?
CARES isn’t just a program, it’s a partner in your success. When you join, you benefit from:
- A personalized employment plan built around your goals
- Training and certifications that open new career opportunities
- 1:1 guidance from people who believe in your potential
- A welcoming, judgment-free environment
- Real connections to employers and work opportunities
- Community and support that help you manage life while you grow
Whether you’re starting fresh or looking to make a change, CARES gives you the stepping stones to a more stable and fulfilling future.
Are you an employer? Why CARES candidates stand out
CARES connects employers with motivated, well-prepared job seekers. When you hire through CARES, you gain access to:
- Flexible onboarding options: Host work experience placements, work trials, or volunteer opportunities to ensure the right fit before hiring.
- Wage subsidy available: Employers hosting work experience placements may qualify for a wage subsidy of up to 12 weeks.
- Job-ready candidates: Participants receive essential skills training, employment preparation, and occupational skills aligned to your job requirements.
- Ongoing support: Candidates receive continued coaching to promote a smooth transition into long-term employment.
Contact the CARES team
For more information:
Call: 587-635-2355
Email: [email protected]
Edmonton
Lifemark Mira
11910-111 Avenue #115
Edmonton, AB
T5G 3G6
Looking for other types of employment support?
If you're ready to return to work quickly and want focused support with job search, resumes, interviews, and employer connections, you may also benefit from our Centre4Work program.
- Short-term, employment-focused coaching
- Resume and interview support
- Direct employer connections to help you find work fast