Second Group of RISE Participants Graduate from Valuable Vocational Program
From left to right: Janessa (RISE Job Coach), Jayla (RISE Graduate), Tanya (RISE Supervisor), and Justin (RISE Job Coach).
At Lethbridge Family Services, we believe employment adds important value to the lives of those in our community. That’s why, for the second year, our DaCapo Disability Services department has presented RISE, a cutting-edge program that aims to elevate employment outcomes for individuals with developmental disabilities.
Reaching Independence through Skills and Employment is a skills-centered vocational program that enables participants to develop new skills through in-class instruction and work-integrated learning to transition to competitive and meaningful employment. The second group of RISE participants graduated on June 25, 2024, and will now tackle the prospect of joining the workforce.
Expanding access to the world of work is the right investment for people with disabilities, their families, and local businesses. The impact of meaningful and challenging employment extends beyond just the income it provides.
Jayla, 2024 RISE graduate, delivered a speech at the graduation luncheon:
“All of us in this room have a diagnosis of some kind, some of us even multiple. I imagine we all had those dreams that we couldn’t quite reach because of it; but if I have learned anything in these months with all of you, it’s that we are more than our diagnosis. We still can achieve our hopes and dreams, and we are stronger than the average Joe. We had to put in the effort, and because of it, we are more resilient and knowledgeable.”
Classroom instruction focuses on self-exploration to increase confidence and understanding of how our unique skills, abilities, and values influence our career paths. Participants learn in a compassionate environment that openly identifies and addresses barriers with a solution-focused mindset. Work-integrated learning experiences in the second part of the program allow for on-the-job training and experience.
At the graduation luncheon, RISE graduates enjoyed a cake, and each received a sweater with a special RISE artwork designed by Katherine, one of the graduates.
Those interested in applying for the RISE program can learn more at LFSfamily.ca/rise. Additionally, RISE is open to working with inclusive employers to provide work opportunities for RISE students. Businesses will receive support from DaCapo staff every step of the way. If your business or organization is interested in supporting this valuable community initiative, please contact us at rise@lfsfamily.ca.
Jayla concludes, “I am now on my way to becoming a part-time employee at my job. I go there every morning with a smile, and it wouldn’t have been possible without this amazing program we call RISE.”
Lethbridge Family Services is the only nonprofit organization in southern Alberta awarded the opportunity to offer this type of programming, typically provided by academic institutions. Through our DaCapo Disability Services department, we are investing in the lives of persons with disabilities so they can reach their full potential.
Media Contact:
Michelle Gallucci
Director, Advancement & Communications
Lethbridge Family Services
mgallucci@lsfamily.ca
403-915-8028
Lethbridge Family Services provides highly-accredited health and social services to over 9,000 individuals and families in more than 30 communities in southwestern Alberta, through the professional services of more than 380 staff, and the support of over 550 committed volunteers. LFS's vision is a connected and inclusive community where people thrive.
