Stephen Whiteside shows off his selections for Chapters’ “Staff Picks” table.
Not everyone gets to work at their dream job, but South Team client Stephen Whiteside has been in his dream job for nearly two decades.
As an avid reader, working at Chapters was a natural fit for Whiteside, who has been at the Macleod Trail location for about 18 years now. Recently, he hosted his own “Staff Picks” table, where Chapters employees get to select a number of their favourite books, and put them out on a table as a recommendation to customers. Some of the selections from Whiteside include parts of the series for Wonder Woman, Harry Potter, Star Wars, and Star Trek. He said that he hopes readers who visit the store will enjoy these books as much as he did.
During his breaks and after his shift, it is not unusual to find Whiteside browsing the store to find his next title for the “Staff Picks” table.
The DDRC has partnered with Bow Valley College to introduce a computer literacy course to the our clients this fall, and we were thrilled to host a launch celebration in September!
The 12-week course focuses on supporting clients with relevant goals, such as finding community employment. Three Community Resource Workers from the PACE team act as facilitators, making sure learners are comfortable with the concepts taught by a Bow Valley College instructor.
Topics covered include basic computer functions, using the Internet, digital literacy, online safety, and commonly used computer programs. Learners are also shown how computer skills can help them with employment – searching for a job, writing a cover letter and résumé, applying for a job by email, and more.
Bow Valley College’s Bernice Gowan believes that clients will benefit from being part of an organization that is “literacy friendly.”
“Literacy is about belonging. It’s important at home, at work, and in the community,” Gowan said.
CEO Helen Cowie and Bow Valley College employees listen to Keith Seel (Dean of the Centre for Excellence in Foundational Learning).
DDRC employees learn more about the new course.
Delicious cupcakes sporting DDRC and BVC logos for the celebration.
DDRC facilitators Ryan and Andrea, and BVC’s Bernice Gowan celebrate the launch with sparkling apple juice.
On September 22nd, the DDRC celebrated the 21st annual Inclusion Awards! The event was a huge success with approximately 400 people in attendance. Throughout the evening, we recognized 13 deserving individuals with awards for their outstanding contributions to making Calgary a city where everyone belongs™.
The theme for 2016 was “by the sea,” and everyone looked ready to set sail after donning some of the fun costumes at our photo booth. If you had a shot taken at the photo booth, you can e-mail us for information on how to download your free picture.
The CEFN is hosting three great events this month to celebrate inclusive employment:
Wednesday, October 12: Let’s Talk Employment – Inclusive Leadership
What: Calgary Economic Development and the CEFN will discuss best business practices for creating a culture that embraces diversity. A panel of employers will share their experiences, challenges, and successes related to creating an environment where employees with disabilities can thrive. Register here. When: 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Where: Global Business Centre, Terrace View Room, 5th Floor; 136 8 Avenue SE
Wednesday, October 19: DEAM Film Festival
What: Bow Valley College, in partnership with the CEFN and Picture This…Film Festival, are pleased to offer a unique one day film festival focusing on employment and individuals with disabilities as part of the workforce. There will be a broad selection of films highlighting local and international perspectives on this important issue, with opportunities for discussion. Register here. When: 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Where: Bow Valley College, North Campus Theatre, Room N124; 345 6 Avenue SE
Thursday, October 20: New Conversations
What:This unique seminar is ideal for Calgary HR Professionals, Managers, and business owners. ‘Workplace Diversity Strategies: Utilizing Universal Design to Build an Inclusive Organization’ will provide Calgary Employers with insights, information and tools to build their capacity to engage in inclusive recruitment and create inclusive workplaces. When: 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Register here. Where: Caffé Artigiano; 5010 Richard Road SW
Wednesday, October 26: #DEAMEmployer Awards Gala
What: Calgary has so many incredible employers, and it’s time to celebrate them! Nominations are rolling in, and will be accepted up until October 16, 2016. Join us as we celebrate DEAM and recognize this year’s DEAM Employer Award recipients. Contact Prospect Human Services’ Alexi Davis to register. When: 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Where: Engineered Air Theatre; 205 8 Avenue SE
Looking for more information? Visit the CEFN website.
The 21st annual Inclusion Awards ceremony is only three weeks away! In order to ensure that the evening runs as smoothly as possible, we’ve put together a list of some of the most frequently asked questions. Feel free to ask any other event-related questions in the comments box at the end!
Invitation for the 21st annual Inclusion Awards.
When is the event?
The 21st annual Inclusion Awards will be held on Thursday, September 22.
What time does it start?
Guests are invited to arrive any time after 5:30 to enjoy our live entertainment. The program will begin at 6:45 p.m.; for this reason, we ask that you arrive no later than 6:30 p.m.
How long is the event?
The event runs an average of two and a half to three hours.
What should I wear?
The dress-code for this event is business-casual. Please, no jeans.
What is the theme this year?
This year’s theme is “By the Sea.” Think Atlantic Canada!
Will there be food?
Yes! Guests are treated to a delicious three course meal.
What if I have an allergy?
If you have a food allergy, please notify us as soon as possible via e-mail.
Will there be alcohol?
Yes. There will be a cash bar if you desire a beverage with alcohol. Water, juice, coffee, and tea will be provided free of charge.
I was nominated for an award. Do I have to do anything special?
We ask that all nominees (and their guests) choose a seat in the first three rows, to ensure quick access to the stage if they are chosen as an award winner.
Will there be a photo booth again this year?
Yes! We are pleased to provide a fun seaside-themed photo booth for the event! There will also be a 50/50 draw, silent auction, and door prizes.
How do I get to the Glenmore Inn?
The Glenmore Inn is easily accessible by car at 2720 Glenmore Trail SE. If you will be arriving by transit, routes 73 and 302 will also bring you to the hotel. Click here to see the Glenmore Inn on Google Maps.
