Small Steps, Big Changes

A new opportunity is available for WISH participants to improve their skills in a supportive environment, led by WISH’s first Pre-Employment InReach Worker (PEIW), Ruby.

As a member of the InReach team, Ruby provides one-to-one support and advocacy for WISH participants. As the PEIW, she also connects participants to paid work opportunities, hosts weekly pre-employment workshops, and facilitates Emotional Regulation and Effective Communication classes three times per month.

Ruby has been carefully building trusting relationships with WISH participants since hosting her first event at WISH four years ago. Her classes are fun and informative, and even though – or maybe because – tough topics are covered, there is a huge demand for these discussions.

Topics range from “Communications and Emotions” to “Learning to Love Yourself!” and provide a safe, non-judgmental space to explore difficult emotions.

Discussions around anger are helping participants recognize triggers, understand the roots of their anger, and learn healthier ways to respond. Exploring empathy helps to build understanding and trust, reducing conflict and fostering a more supportive, respectful community.

Other workshops help participants navigate specific challenges. In “Small Steps, Big Changes” Ruby focuses on making incremental, realistic, and achievable progress forward.

By breaking larger goals into manageable steps, participants were able to build confidence, experience quick wins, and develop a sense of control over their circumstances. This combination of practical strategies and peer connection helped foster motivation, resilience, and a stronger belief in their ability to create positive change, making the overall impact both meaningful and sustainable.
 – Ruby, WISH InReach Worker

In the trusting and supportive environment Ruby creates for these workshops and classes, participants can share experiences, learn from one another, and feel less isolated.

Ruby, thank you for your incredible work!

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WISH participants who want to learn more can check out the monthly activities and events calendar for information on Ruby’s workshops and InReach drop-in times.

Employers who wish to provide paid employment opportunities for WISH participants can email [E-Address: info | wishdropincentre] to learn more about partnering with InReach.

This article is part of WISH’s 2026 Spring Newsletter. Read more to learn why your Spring donation to Support Safety can help centre the needs of sex workers in our community.