News

On May 8, 2025, the WorkBC Centre in Chase proudly welcomed community members back into its newly renovated space at 822 Shuswap Avenue.  

The open house event brought together job seekers, local employers, and residents to explore the revitalized centre and reconnect with the wide range of free employment services WorkBC offers.  

A highlight of the event was the continued presence of a captivating mural by local artist Maia Walker, which now enhances the updated space. Hailing from the unceded territory of the T'kemlups people in Kamloops, BC, Maia's artwork, with its beautiful integration of nature, social justice, and local symbolism, remained a significant point of interest for attendees.  

Her thoughtful representation of Chase through elements like the inclusive rainbow, the welcoming clouds in local languages, the iconic red wharf, and the celebrated local corn, continues to resonate deeply within the community. Despite residing in Kamloops, Walker spends plenty of time in Chase due in strong part to connections she has made through WorkBC, to the point that she would eventually like to make Chase homebase.  

“Chase is really awesome, and in a smaller place I can really invest in my community with more impact”, said Walker.  

The open house served as a reminder of the consistent and free support available at the WorkBC Centre - Chase.  

For job seekers, WorkBC offers invaluable assistance including ongoing career counselling, resume and cover letter refinement, interview skills enhancement, comprehensive job search resources, and pathways to relevant training opportunities.  

Employers can also continue to access WorkBC's no-cost services, such as support with recruitment strategies, job posting platforms, connections with qualified local talent, and up-to-date information on labour market trends and available government programs.  

“The improvements make the space much better. The staff here really help, they aren't all talk,” raved Na Visala, who made the trip out from Magna Bay to attend the event.  

Visala, who is originally from Laos, has been working as a housekeeper thanks to assistance with training and skills from WorkBC. “The person I am today is not who I was 5 years ago; that is because of them”, she added.  

“The new renovations allow us to feel mentally clear, and work well as a team to do our best for our clients”, said Susan Waters, Employment Specialist at WorkBC.  

Another team member, Raeanne Hodges added, “It feels like a clean slate and it feels like our space now. We can do our best work for Chase job seekers and employers.”  

The sounds of conversation and laughter filled the air as 150 attendees filtered in and out throughout the day at the re-opened WorkBC Centre. The delicious aroma of locally made Bannock and BBQ wafted through the renovated space, where guests enjoyed refreshments, the thrill of door prizes, and valuable networking. Maia's inspiring mural continues to provide a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere within the newly renovated WorkBC Centre, symbolizing the enduring spirit and rich heritage of Chase.  

The re-opening event successfully highlighted WorkBC's ongoing commitment to empowering individuals and the businesses in the region with consistent free resources and support within an enhanced and more accessible environment, fostering continued economic growth and opportunity within the community.  

The revitalized WorkBC Centre Chase is open and ready to continue assisting job seekers and employers in achieving their goals.  

*this article is written and published on Chase Sunflower on May 9^th, 2025.