Reaching Independence through Skills & Employment (RISE)
Program Overview
At Lethbridge Family Services, we believe employment is a fundamental human right that adds important value to people’s lives. Employment can improve quality of life, mental health, social networks, and social inclusion.
Our Reaching Independence through Skills and Employment (RISE) program is a 10-month skills-centered employment program for adults with developmental disabilities. Participants will develop the necessary skills through in-class instruction and work-integrated learning to prepare for the transition to competitive and meaningful employment.
RISE is recognized by the Government of Alberta as a Transitional Vocational Program.
Program Benefits:
Explore career choice opportunities
Receive career counselling, job search assistance, and work-integrated learning opportunities
Enhance teamwork skills
Manage a more independent lifestyle
Develop the social, vocational, and independent living skills needed for competitive employment and community living
FAQ
View and download RISE Fact Sheet.
Admission Requirements
Must be 18 years of age or older, on or before the program start date
Diagnosed with a developmental disability by a medical professional
Ready, willing, and able to work
Capable of using public transit
Program Location: YMCA of Lethbridge, located at 140-74 Mauretania Rd West, Lethbridge
Length of Program: 10 months
Program Start Date: September
Classroom Size: Apply early, as there is a limit of 20 spaces available.
Work Placements: Participants will pursue a wide variety of hands-on work opportunities within the community.
Hours:
Monday–Friday, 8:30 am–3:00 pm
Closed statutory holidays
Depending on work placement, hours will vary.
Program Schedule: View and download full course descriptions.
Financial Assistance: Funding may be available for eligible participants.
How to Apply
You may apply to RISE using the button below.
Submission Requirements
Developmental Disability diagnosed by a medical professional
Two Letters of Reference
Payment of a non-refundable $78.75 application fee ($75 + GST)
For Employers
Your business can change lives with the power of work! RISE is always in search of progressive and inclusive employers to provide work opportunities for RISE students. You 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.
5 good reasons to hire someone with a disability:
They can be counted on. People with disabilities have 48% less turnover and 34% fewer incidents/accidents than other employees.
They see things differently. Unique perspectives help create a diverse company culture. People with developmental disabilities often have a keen eye for detail and are well-suited to innovate solutions to complex and unexpected business problems.
They make your company likable. Having workers with disabilities in the workplace improves staff morale and teamwork. You can grow your customer base too—many people prefer to support businesses that employ individuals with disabilities. In fact, 87% of people prefer to give their business to organizations employing individuals with disabilities.
It’s easy! Workers with disabilities are easy to accommodate in most workplaces. You can also try a temporary RISE work placement prior to paid employment. Why not give it a try?
You’re supported every step of the way. DaCapo Disability Services completes a task analysis and hazard assessment, crafts a work agreement, and provides on-the-job support and workers' compensation coverage.
Contact: Lynette Taal, Program Manager
Email: rise@lfsfamily.ca
Phone: 403-320-9119
Service Location: 1107 2A Ave North, Lethbridge, AB
Office Hours:
Monday–Friday
8:00 am—4:00 pm
Closed Statutory Holidays
