Melinda first connected with Inclusion Chilliwack Society’s Supported Employment Services (SES) in 2017 with a strong passion for working in childcare. After completing her First Aid certification, she secured a role as a Child Minder at Recreation Excellence.
However, in 2020, she was laid off due to the Covid-19 pandemic and faced a significant personal challenge – a health crisis that resulted in vision loss. Determined to rebuild her confidence and independence, Melinda returned to SES in 2021. She remained committed to working with children but recognized the need to take small steps to refresh her skills. With support from SES, she completed a Child Protection Training course and renewed her First Aid certification as key milestones toward her goal.
To gain confidence, Melinda volunteered at the Mission Thrift Store, where she strengthened her ability to navigate new environments. She later secured a volunteer role at the YMCA, staying engaged in work she loves—being around children. Although she enjoyed these roles and participated in Special Olympics three evenings per week, Melinda still wanted to acquire paid employment. SES worked alongside her to identify opportunities that matched her skills and strengths. Through collaboration with inclusive employers, a customized position was created.
Today, Melinda works at the Apollo Clinic and Optimum Sport and Health Center, where she helps maintain a clean and organized environment by collecting, laundering, and folding towels. Her journey is a testament to resilience, community support, and the belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to achieve their employment goals.
October is Disability Employment Awareness Month
Every October since 2010, Canada has recognized Disability Employment Awareness Month (DEAM) which celebrates the workplace inclusion of persons experiencing disability. Since then, employment servic
The Canadian Association for Supported Employment (CASE) supports DEAM by providing a range of resources that strengthen inclusive employment practices, including its Inclusive Employment Toolkit and a set of guiding principles that inform supported employment efforts nationwide.
