In July 2011, BCCPD launched a new peer support group for people living with a disability. This first group was such a success, a new group is starting November 2/11. And, at participants’ request, this group is extended to 6 weeks.
What is “peer support”?
It is an opportunity for people to exchange ideas and experiences in a confidential, respectful environment. The group will explore many topics, such as:
Daily living and coping in a changed world
Relationships with friends, family and others
Navigating medical systems
Personal wellness
Finding joy
Exploring and sharing ideas about ‘what’s next’.
The group size will be limited to a maximum of 15 and there will be a trained facilitator. Light snacks provided.
Dates: 6 Wednesdays starting November 2, 2011 Time: 1-3 pm Location: BCCPD, #204- 456 West Broadway
In 2011, BCCPD had an opportunity to work with two Douglas College students to assess accommodations in BC for-profit organizations for employees and potential employees with invisible disabilities. Their final report entitled Investigating Workplace Accommodation for People with Invisible Disabilities covers awareness of invisible disabilities in the workplace, disclosure, barriers for job seekers and employees and recommendations.
BCCPD was very pleased to have the opportunity to speak at the recent Ministerial Roundtable on Labour Market Participation of People with Disabilities hosted by the Honourable Alice Wong, Minister of State for Seniors.
Paul Gauthier represented BCCPD at the August 2011 event. He spoke about the Equipment and Assistive Technology Initiative (EATI) and the importance of the Social Development Partnership Program to the community. EATI is a ground-breaking project, funded by the Province of British Columbia, through the Canada-British Columbia Labour Market Agreement.
Left to right: Duane Geddes, Executive Director, Sam Sullivan Disability Foundation
Dr. Gary Birch, Executive Director, Neil Squire Society
Jennifer Lee, Executive Director, IAM Cares Society
Hon. Alice Wong, Minister of State for Seniors
Karen De Long, Director, British Columbia Association for Community Living
Paul Gauthier, BC Coalition of People with Disabilities
Jamie Millar-Dixon, Tourism Employment Specialist, WII-STEP Workforce Inclusion Initiative
In July 2011, BCCPD launched a new peer support group for people living with a disability. This first group was such a success, a new group is starting November 2/11. And, at participants’ request, this group is extended to 6 weeks.
