We were joined by Gina Belich and  Madeline Oullette, Inclusion Alberta Provincial Director, Employment Partnerships.  Gina is the Rotary Employment Partnership Coordinator for our area.

Over 80% of people with intellectual disabilities are unemployed and struggle to find a suitable job placement. Inclusion Alberta is one source of support for those individuals.  Gina helps businesses to connect with possible employees and provides support to the partnership. Benefits to businesses are great as they gain a devoted employee, are able to showcase inclusive corporate values and boost workplace dynamics. Partnerships also empower both employers and employees. 

Dustin Snider(Earls Restaurant and Bar) and Elijah (Earls employee) shared the story of a successful partnership.  Elijah has worked at Earls for 2 1/2 years, progressing from a dishwasher to a line cook as his skills grew.  Elijah shared how he has grown in confidence , made friends, and is successfully employed at a job that provides great satisfaction. " They accept me as I am", a great testimonial for this program.  

 

Susan Hopf-Kmetiuk shared how this is a Rotary initiative and is searching for representation on the steering committee from all Red Deer clubs. Rotarians have a wide network of business contacts that may result in suitable placements for individuals.  Please contact her for more information.

Darcy Mykytyshyn. hosted the meeting while Laura Snape kept the meeting running efficiently as Sarge.  On this day in 1968, Johnny Cash recorded the concert at Folsom Prison., Henry Ford received the patent for plastic in 1946 and most importantly, 1930 saw Mickey Mouse appear for the first time in a comic.

 

 

Jenna: guest of Dustin Snider

Jesse: son and guest of Dustin Snider

Anita Snider: guest of Jerry Pasman

 

Gina Belich: Rotary Employment Partnership

 

Visiting Rotarians:

Brenda Kolasa: Red Deer East

Susan Hopf-Kmetiuk: Red Deer Sunrise

 

 

50/50: Dick McDonnell held the lucky ticket but did not pick the lucky card

 

Bill Hull donated his gift package- Steve Chow was the lucky winner.

Laura Snape: Went to amazing experience at the Sphere in Los Vegas.  She remarked that the experience was as amazing as the price!

Dylan Rambow: Glad to report that his wife is experiencing better health.  He is eager to begin their new venture of a German Brew Pub and Restaurant . He is pleased that his schedule will  permit him to attend more meetings in the future.

Leigh Sands: Off on a new Disney cruise on Friday.  Will return in 2 weeks with tales of Mickey and his pals.

Steve Chow: Returned from 36 days of cruising.  He was pleased to connect with Bob Mills along the way.  Steve shared that his family experienced the loss of his father in law recently.

Brenda Kolaso: Red Deer East's raffle tickets are available for $20.  Please contact her or anyone from her club if interested. Many members bought tickets that will allow them to win some vacation bucks. Draw is Feb 4/25.  Only 500 tickets sold.

Jerry Pasman: Contributed 1 dollar for each year of his birth. Congrats!

Darcy Mykytyshyn: Along with Scott Robinson, encouraged members  to consider volunteering to be a board member on the newly formed Homeless Foundation for Red Deer Region.  Please contact Darcy or Scott  for more information.

Ingrid Nossack: Looking for someone to assume her Rebels 50/50 shift on Jan 25 as she will be in Kelowna.

Jim McPherson: Lisa's surgery was challenging but she is now home and feeling positive.  Her strength is quickly returning and thanks are extended for the healing thoughts of many.

Jack Panteluk:Was recently enjoying the great ski conditions at Lake Louise.  Looking forward to a trip to Costa Rica that was recently won on a raffle sponsored by the Rotary Club of Westlock.

 

 

A lively crowd gathered last Thursday at   Earl's Restaurant and Bar.  It was wonderful to share stories and conversation with members.  Please mark your calendars for the 2nd Thursday of each month to gather in fellowship.  we will gather on Thursday, Feb 13 next month.

 

Skiing with Youth Exchange

The D5360 Inbounds are headed to Banff from Jan 26^th to 30^th, which includes a day of skiing at Lake Louise.  We are look for a few “ski mentors” who would like to help coach and support our inbound students as they tackle a world class hill.  Come out and have some fun getting to know our D5360 Youth Exchange students.  If available, email Darcy Mykytyshyn at international@rotaryclubofreddeer.ca.

 

“This is Us”

Joan Doanld has set aside 10 copies of their biography, “This is Us: The Story of Jack and Joan Donald” written by Michael Dawe and Laura Davis.  Joan has set aside 10 copies for members of the Rotary Club of Red Deer that would like one.  If you would like a copy, please reach out to Darcy Mykytyshyn at international@rotaryclubofreddeer.ca and he will take care of you.