Community Support Services

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Employment Oportunities

Employment Services are designed to accommodate the unique occupational interests of each student. As such, employment options are numerous. Previous graduates have secured employment in a variety of fields including: food services, janitorial, childcare, manufacturing, retail, automotive, laundry, pet care and office support.

Introduction

The Community Support Services Department provides Community Access and Employment Services for adults with developmental disabilities to facilitate their inclusion in the community as valued, participating and contributing members.

Service Descriptions

Employment Services support each student in securing and maintaining competitive employment in his/her field of interest.  Courses taught at Columbia College prepare students for the workforce.  Services offered include:  employment preparation classes; work experience placements leading to competitive employment; job coaching and extensive long-term follow-up support.  Work experience placements assist students in skill development, refining their vocational interests and marketing themselves to potential employers.  Employment Services are individualized to accommodate the unique occupational interests of each student and as such there are a variety of exciting employment options. Staff provide support to the students and their employers until this support is no longer required.

Community Access Services support students in becoming valued members of the community through inclusive opportunities in social activities, education, recreation, community association, community resources and volunteerism.  The goal is to develop community support networks in order to facilitate the student's ability to particpate in these activities, independent of paid supports. These services are of particular benefit for those students who have personal goals that are not related to employment or for those students who are currently employed, but desire a more fulfilling and balanced lifestyle. Through person-centered planning, students choose meaningful and personally fulfilling activities that are in harmony with their individual lifestyles, goals, and interests. The focus of this service is in creating community connections. Once activities are chosen, our staff provide ongoing community-based support to assist each student in realizing his/her goals. Schedules are specific to each student, with day-to-day activities varying from week to week, depending on individual needs, goals, and interests. Schedules and activities are reviewed and modified by the studnet and his/her team on a regular basis. Columbia college is utilized as a meeting place, for extra support and for group or classroom-based activities.

Funding for this program is provided by the

Calgary Region Community Board of Persons with Developmental Disibilities