So Long 2016, Welcome 2017

Posted on By Communications Team

Happy New Year! The beginning of a year can often be both a time for reflection, and a time for planning for the future. We wanted to see what some of the staff and clients around the office were focusing on in early 2017; here’s what they had to say:

Maria M., Client Services Coordinator
Maria M., Client Services Coordinator

“The best part of 2016 was that I applied for a position with the [Client Services Coordinators] team, and I got hired. That was my highlight. I am very happy to be here. I was a Community Resource Worker prior to coming into this position, so it is something different, but something challenging I think. I feel I’m heading in the right direction for 2017.”
– Maria M., Client Services Coordinator

Adam C., PACE Team Client
Adam C., PACE Team Client

“I had some highlights in 2016. Presenting at the Inclusion Awards in September was one. I am looking forward to getting my driver’s license in 2017. Also, I’m hoping to get a job by the spring.”
– Adam C., PACE Team Client

Jessica L., PACE Team CRW
Jessica L., PACE Team CRW

“The Holiday Open House was a great experience. Very fun. I got to work with one of our clients serving vegetables. I am looking forward to seeing great changes with each of the clients here as they learn and grow, and just having new adventures.”
– Jessica L., Community Resource Worker

 

Cieran R., PACE Team Client
Cieran R., PACE Team Client

“I joined Toastmasters, and I think that it is a really good place for me to be. I’ve gotten pretty good at  it [public speaking]. I am mostly looking forward to working on writing creatively. I like writing stories.”
– Cieran R., PACE Team Client

 

PACE Wraps for a Cause

Posted on By Communications Team

During the holidays, a number of clients on our PACE Team had the opportunity to volunteer for Cystic Fibrosis Canada as gift wrappers. Once customers were done purchasing gifts for their friends and family members, they brought the goodies up to the booth to be wrapped by our client volunteers.

According to Whitney Stout, the PACE Community Resource Worker who helped organize this opportunity, each shopper donates an average of $8.00 per present wrapped. This fundraiser takes place each year at Market Mall, South Centre Mall, and Chinook Mall.

Here are three of our clients in action:

Client Success: Eileen McLachlan

Posted on By Communications Team
South Team client Eileen McLaughlin is recognized by her manager at Canyon Meadows GoodLife Fitness.
South Team client Eileen McLachlan is recognized by her manager at Canyon Meadows GoodLife Fitness.

South Team client Eileen McLachlan is celebrating a proud anniversary this year; she has just reached her 12th year as an employee with GoodLife Fitness.

In her role at the Canyon Meadows location, McLachlan is described as diligent, positive, and enthusiastic when it comes to her work.

Kelsi Foreman, general manager at the gym, has worked alongside McLachlan for the past year, and said she feels it is “an honour” to be her co-worker.

“She is a light in our club,” Foreman said. ” I have seen so much growth in her ability and willingness to learn and adapt. Our club would not be the same without her.”

Community Resource Worker Diwani Tan Aparis said that working with McLachlan is fun and fulfilling. “I admire her desire and love for work,” she said.

“Her positive attitude, dedication, and hard work have garnered her lots of praise.”

Highlights from the 2016 Holiday Open House

Posted on By Communications Team

With approximately 300 guests in attendance, this year’s “Candy Cane Lane” Holiday Open House was a huge success! This year, the festive event featured delicious baked goods from six employees in the Bite-Size Bake Off, a visit from Mr. Claus himself, a prize wheel, and clients, employees, and members of the community working together to decorate a tree. We’re thrilled to share some highlights with you!

Thank you to all of our volunteers who worked so hard to make the day happen. We’d also like to say thank you to Sarcee Plaza Starbucks for their generous donation of coffee for the enjoyment of our guests.

You’re Invited to the Holiday Open House!

Posted on By Communications Team

Holiday Open House posterCome celebrate the season at our annual Holiday Open House!

This festive event is completely free, and open to everyone. It’s a wonderful opportunity to enjoy some light refreshments, learn about the DDRC, meet our clients and employees, and visit with Santa Claus! Plus, who wouldn’t want to be a judge in our Bite-Size Holiday Bake Off? Five DDRC employees whip up some delicious holiday treats, and then YOU get to sample all of them and vote for your favourite!

Date: Thursday, December 8
Time: 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Location: DDRC Gym, 4646 Sarcee Road SW
Cost: Free!

A Spooktacular Time at the DDRC

Posted on By Communications Team

During the last week of October, clients and employees worked scarily hard to decorate doors in the building for Halloween! We were also thrilled to have a number of people around the office dress up for the day!

Take a look at some of this year’s best doors and costumes, if you dare: