On Wednesday, April 2, the Employment Services Centre of Prescott-Russell (ESCPR) announced that the entire region of Prescott-Russell is now fully serviced with the opening of its new office in Casselman. This fourth location will improve local access to ESCPR services for recruitment, training, and talent management.
Like other ESCPR offices, the new branch at 750 Main Street offers personalized support for professional success, access to resources, and a variety of connections to local employers seeking workers.
“For more than 40 years, the centre has aimed to serve the entire Prescott-Russell territory, and the opening of this fourth service point in Casselman marks the fulfillment of this goal,” stated Chairman of the ESCPR Board of Directors Carl Portelance.
Executive Director of the ESCPR Caroline Arcand noted, “The expertise of our team is a core factor in the centre’s impact on its community. We offer services tailored to the realities of the labour market and make a tangible contribution to local economic development.
Casselman Mayor Geneviève Lajoie expressed her appreciation for the centre’s presence, emphasizing that ESCPR’s work contributes to the local economy and society. Lajoie also highlighted that the ESCPR helps to bridge gaps and break down barriers for those seeking employment services after job loss.
She added, “What’s the next step in life now that this road is closed and you feel trapped, stuck, depressed—you feel like a loser? But what your service does is open the world to these people who are going through life transitions who otherwise would not know what to do.”
Member of Provincial Parliament (MPP) for Glengarry-Prescott-Russell Stéphane Sarrazin praised the collaborative spirit of rural communities: “Small municipalities in rural areas are ahead of the game. Everyone works together: the organizations and service providers. It makes a lot of people jealous. Caroline, congratulations to you and your team.”
Photos by Philip Oddi:
