First Class of RISE Program Participants Graduate and Achieve Success
Faith (RISE graduate) receives her certificate, LFS backpack, and acrostic name poem as graduation gifts.
Elevating employment outcomes for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities is what our new RISE program, a 10-month skills-centered employment program, aims to do. Our first group of participants graduated on Friday, October 27!
RISE is recognized by the Government of Alberta as a transitional vocational program. Participants develop the necessary skills through in-class instruction and work-integrated learning, to prepare for the transition to competitive and meaningful employment.
Sandra Mintz, Chief Executive Officer of Lethbridge Family Services, addresses RISE graduates and their families at the graduation luncheon on Friday, October 27th, 2023.
Expanding access to the world of work is the right investment for people with disabilities, as well as for their families, area businesses, and local communities. The impact of meaningful and challenging employment extends well beyond the income it provides.
Classroom instruction focuses on self-exploration as a means to increase confidence and an understanding of how our unique skills, abilities, and values influence our career paths. Participants have the opportunity to learn in a compassionate environment that openly identifies barriers and addresses those barriers with a solution-focused mindset. Providing work-integrated learning experiences in a variety of settings is an integral part of the on-the-job training offered by RISE.
Justine (RISE graduate) says, "The work experience opportunities I've had while in the RISE program haven't just improved my work skills, I've also learned better time management, communication, and problem-solving. I use city transit to get to and from work, so I learn new bus routes, which builds my confidence to get where I need to go.”
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.
With support from the Government of Alberta, we are investing in the lives of persons with disabilities so they can reach their full potential... helping hope flourish.
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.
