Debbie’s Story: From Starting Over to Opening Doors
When the small family business Debbie had devoted eight years to suddenly closed its doors, she wasn’t sure she would ever find another workplace that felt like home. Starting over felt overwhelming, but determined to move forward, Debbie reached out to Starling Employment Services. “It was scary,” she recalls. “But from the moment I walked through the door, I felt nothing but support.”
Her resume hadn’t been touched in years; it was still saved on a compact disc. With the guidance of her Employment Advisor, Debbie brought it into the modern job market. Together, they refreshed her resume and navigated the new world of online job searching.
Soon after, Debbie interviewed with Adam, owner of Apparel Decorating Company. From the moment she walked in, she felt welcomed by the kindness and close-knit team. She joined as an Embroidery Machine Operator, grateful to have found a workplace that felt like home again.
As she settled, Debbie’s strong work ethic, reliability, and eagerness to learn quickly began to shine. She took on new responsibilities, supported her teammates, and became someone the entire shop could count on. With each step forward, her confidence grew.
Ten years later, Debbie is now the smiling presence behind the front counter as the company’s Operations Manager. She oversees daily operations while helping to shape the same positive, supportive culture that first drew her in. “She’s not just a leader; she’s the heartbeat of the company. She’s the glue,” Adam says. “She holds everything together and keeps our business running smoothly.”
Today, Debbie’s journey has come full circle. Now on the other side of the hiring table, she works with Adam to welcome new team members through Starling’s Employment Services. Many of their current staff began their journeys the same way she did. For Debbie, it’s about more than filling roles – it’s about opening doors, just as one was opened for her.
Reflecting on her experience, Debbie hopes others will take that same first step. “Starling Employment Services isn’t just there to help you find a job,” she says. “They help you become the best version of yourself and give you the confidence to succeed.”
Community Impact
Opportunities for a Fair Chance
This year, Starling Employment Services partnered with the Solicitor General and local Probation and Parole offices to create a referral pathway for their clients to access our employment services more quickly and easily. Through personalized guidance, skill development, and strong employer partnerships, participants have gained confidence, secured sustainable employment, and strengthened their sense of purpose. As a result, one in three of these clients who faced substantial barriers to employment were able to find jobs with the assistance of our program.
Breaking Financial Barriers to Help Job Seekers
As the cost of living continues to rise, it becomes increasingly difficult for job seekers to afford necessary training, work equipment, clothing and other supports needed to begin a new job. This past year, the Employment Ontario (EmployNext) Program was able to assist 1,396 clients with new work clothing, bus passes, interpreter costs, job placements and other supports needed to set them up for successful employment.
Newcomer Career Support Program
Starling is working to meet the growing employment needs of newcomers by supporting their integration into the workforce and community. The increased demand for support is reflected in the Newcomer Career Support program reaching its annual goal for the number of clients served three months early. This program serves all newcomers, including internationally trained professionals and youth aged 15 to 30, creating pathways to meaningful employment and long-term economic stability. Participants build confidence, gain recognition of their skills, and pursue opportunities aligned with their experience and goals. The impact has a ripple effect beyond the individual. It strengthens families, reduces isolation, and fosters social and economic integration so newcomers can feel a stronger sense of belonging in their new community.
“As a refugee, coming to Canada was a dream and a new beginning. Like many newcomers, I faced difficulties finding employment. Through Starling, I received not only employment support from dedicated staff, but encouragement, direction, and a sense of belonging. This journey is more than a personal achievement. It is a full circle moment. As a Program Assistant, I now support youth and newcomers who are walking a path similar to mine, helping them build confidence and create new opportunities. My story is a reflection of what is possible with resilience, community support, and the opportunity to belong.””
“Debbie is not just a leader; she’s the heartbeat of the company. She’s the glue, She holds everything together and keeps our business running smoothly.”