ABILITIES COUNCIL
individuals who confront barriers to finding and maintaining employment . As everyone is unique , services are tailored to fit individual needs , goals , and areas for growth . As part of this program , the Council also goes into the community to educate employers on the benefits of harnessing the distinct skill sets of persons with disabilities . This leads to many professional partnerships with leading local employers who are dedicated to strengthening our communities and creating a pool of competitive candidates ready to merge into the workforce .
The Council understands employment isn ’ t the only avenue to increase a person ’ s quality of life and to feel a sense of fulfillment . Life enrichment programs offered across the province bring adults together for community connection and personal growth through various recreational programs .
Many know the Council best as the facilitator of Camp Easter Seal , located at Little Manitou Lake outside of Watrous , Saskatchewan . Camp Easter Seal plays a pivotal role in ensuring every child , youth , and adult gets to experience the sense of belonging and fun of summer camp , an experience many of us may take for granted . As the only barrierfree , completely wheelchair accessible camp of its kind in Saskatchewan , Camp Easter Seal gives kids the opportunity to just be kids . No doctor ’ s visits , no feeling left out , just fun and helping campers to see the ability in their disability .
Living with a disability can be expensive . Multiple specialist appointments , travel to and from after school activities , wheelchair adaptations — it all adds up quickly . That ’ s why it ’ s a priority of the Council to offer services at little to no cost to families , many of whom struggle to keep up with giving their child the same opportunities as the next family .
By working together , the Saskatchewan Abilities Council believes we can enrich the lives of families impacted by disabilities and build a society where all people are valued . After all , an inclusive community is a vibrant one . +
6 | FALL 2016