Labour Force Link and EmployAbilities North partnered to host a successful Disability Employment Awareness Month (DEAM) Employer Event in Lac La Biche, celebrating inclusive hiring and local collaboration.
A highlight of the event was hearing from a local employer, Anna Carroll, owner of Reminiscence, who shared her positive experience working with EmployAbilities North. She spoke about how the partnership helped her find a great fit for her business through one of their clients. That same employee, Natasha, also shared her story, describing how inclusive employment not only gave her the confidence to navigate a significant career change but also renewed her sense of purpose and belonging in the workplace.
Anna had also benefited from accessing a wage subsidy program, which supported the onboarding process and contributed to a successful placement. After she and Natasha spoke, Anna was able to answer questions from the audience about her experience with the wage subsidy and working with EmployAbilities North.
Attendees were treated to a short presentation on Inclusive Hiring Practices, which included a complimentary printed guide featuring downloadable links to templates and checklists for practical workplace use.
While the event drew a smaller crowd, about 10 employers attended, the intimate setting created an ideal environment for genuine networking and in-depth conversation, allowing employers and community partners to connect and exchange ideas about building more inclusive workplaces in the region.
