Guest Speaker: Wendy McDonald with Rotary Employment Partnership
The Partnership is a collaboration between Districts 5370 and 5360, Rotary Clubs, Inclusion Alberta and the Government of Alberta. The purpose of the Partnership is to create meaningful employment opportunities for people with developmental disabilities in association with business owners, employers and municipalities.
Wendy discussed the importance of ensuring that adults with disabilities have access to opportunities to obtain employment that enables them to use their gifts and abilities. Currently there is an 80% unemployment rate for adults with developmental disabilities. The Partnership provides one way to create community links that open doors to possible jobs. Support is provided by Inclusion Alberta to both the employer and employee.
Jill and Chantal shared their story of a successful partnership with the local Lululemon store.
Since 2001, over 750 meaningful jobs have been found for adults with developmental disabilities. Worksites have included a wide range of companies from 1 person businesses to large firms and ranged from office jobs to manufacturing and technology. Wendy issued a challenge for local businesses to examine their possible role in such a collaboration.
Gina Belich is the Red Deer coordinator, and can be reached by phone at 403-596-4844.
Weekly Meeting Update
Phil opened the meeting and encouraged Jim M and new member Lisa Mackey to lead the singing of O'Canada.
Sarge for the Day: Don O.
$5 fines were levied to all members who have not yet sent out invitations to at least 5 of their contacts to attend the upcoming 100 Anniversary Celebration on May 4.
No Happy/Sads due to the long meeting agenda
It was a full house today due to the warm weather, return of some snowbirds, and many visitors.
Visitors:
Jill Atkins, Chantal Dawson, Crystal Schewaga (Rotary Employment Partnership)
John Benson (guest of Dwayne H.)
Jodie Jamieson (Guest of Donna P)
Sandy Taddeo (guest of Daria)
Alan James (guest of Daria)
Visiting Rotarians
Jeffrey Dawson, Red Deer Sunrise
Wendy McDonald, Edmonton Sunrise
Bryan Wilson, Red Deer East
Olie Zmiyiwsky, Thunder Bay
Partner of Rotary: Gina Belich
Brett M tried to pull the lucky card to win the 50/50 pot but was not successful this week.
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