We’d like to introduce you to the newest member of our family of websites: everyonebelongs.ca!
This exciting new website contains information about what the everyone belongs™ campaign is, where you can find official everyone belongs™ gear, and is the new home of our newsletter!
In 2014, we introduced you to our Team Leaders, shared client stories, kept you up-to-date on agency events and volunteering opportunities, included you in the re-launch of our Integrated Living Services program and new everyone belongs™ logo. We shared albums, videos, and invited you behind the scenes of monthly activities at the DDRC. Now, we want to know: What do you want to see in 2015?
Whether it’s more photos, videos, or client stories, we want to hear from you! If there’s a topic you’d like us to discuss, a program you’d like to learn more about, or something brand new you’d like us to try, please share your ideas! You can e-mail your suggestions to [email protected] with the subject line “DDRC Enewsletter,” or leave a comment in the box below.
But before me move on, let’s take one last look at the highlights of 2014:
Happy New Year!
Whether you are looking for a full career change, or just have a few hours to give, we have many opportunities for those looking to support our mission that everyone belongs™!
The DDRC takes the safety of our clients, staff, and visitors seriously. Because of this commitment to the well-being of all, we are excited to share some important safety updates around our building.
As a member of our Joint Occupational Health and Safety Committee, Emily Holland says that the updates are a direct reflection of feedback received by the committee.
Our first improvement is the replacement of our front stairs. Visitors to our building may remember the old uneven stairs that once led to our main entrance, but those are no more. We bid the old stairs farewell, and welcomed our new concrete stairs, complete with a sturdy railing.
“We have leveled the front steps and removed the exposed rebar,” Emily said. “This will reduce the potential for trips and falls.”
The pathway along the side of our building to the upper parking lot has been redone. We’ve had the old stepping stones removed and replaced with a continuous line of wider square slabs. This makes for easier snow removal, and even footing.
Next, we are happy to say that the stairs leading down from the upper parking lot to the lower one now have a railing on both sides, marking a substantial safety increase. This is especially crucial in the winter months, when the stairs have the potential to be slippery despite our best snow removal efforts.
Our main entrances have been upgraded to use automatic locks and key fobs, which helps to ensure the security of the building, and those within it. This update also includes a new fire alarm system to alert everyone in case of an emergency.
Last, but certainly not least, we have introduced a visitor badge system so we are aware of who is in the building at all times. Visitors to our office will sign in and receive a badge to identify them. This is good news for two reasons: it increases our building security, and it provides us with an accurate record of who is in the building if an emergency arises. As an added precaution, we have included directions on the back of each badge advising visitors what to do if the fire alarm sounds during their time here.
Emily notes that the distinctive nature of the badges are also adds one other benefit. “We can offer assistance to help our visitors find the person or place they are looking for,” she said.
Do you have any questions about our recent safety updates? If so, please feel free to leave us a comment, or call us at 403.240.3111.
The competition is tough for this year’s Halloween Door Decorating contest! Browse through these creative designs, and share your vote in the comment box. Stay tuned to our Facebook page for this year’s winner!
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We are seeking a grant to launch our Saturday Children’s Learning Program with the objective of helping children with developmental disabilities improve their day-to-day lives. There are many children who have developmental disabilities that require assistance, and families that lack the resources or networks to provide the best opportunities for their children. Our program is one of supported play to foster learning and focuses on the needs of children, aligning program goals with goals determined between Family Support for Children with Disabilities (FSCD) and families.
Vote here to help create a new resource for children and families with the assistance of the Field Law Community Fund Program.