October is Disability Employment Awareness Month, and we are highlighting how Rotarians and local businesses are creating meaningful jobs for individuals with intellectual disabilities through Inclusion Alberta’s Rotary Employment Partnership.

Albertans with intellectual disabilities experience an unemployment rate of more than 70%. The Rotary Employment Partnership is creating life-changing job opportunities while providing an untapped labour market to Alberta’s business community. The partnership has created over 900 jobs to date in diverse fields such as trades, hospitality, manufacturing, childcare, culinary, the arts and office administration. Real work for real pay. Learn more about becoming an inclusive employer.

This summer, Canyon Ski Resort in Red Deer hired Dexter as a member of their maintenance team through Inclusion Alberta’s Rotary Employment Partnership. In his position, Dexter helped ensure the chalet, patio and pathways were always clean, safe and inviting for guests. He quickly became a familiar face, greeting visitors, answering questions and sharing the excitement of Canyon’s many activities.

Resort owner Robin says that Dexter’s positive attitude along with the support he offers to staff and guests have been very welcomed to their operation.

“Dexter has been a very valued member of the Canyon Ski Resort team since he started in July,” says Canyon Ski Resort owner Robin. “He is a fully engaged member of the team who contributes so much to the overall experience of our guests. We look forward to continuing to grow his skill set and have him work with us not only for our summer operations but also our winter.”

Thank you, Canyon Ski Resort, for your commitment to inclusive hiring and congratulations on your great new employee.

Learn more about how you can tap into a valuable labour market by becoming an inclusive employer through the Rotary Employment Partnership. See what inclusive employers have to say about how hiring an individual with an intellectual disability positively affects their bottom line and overall operations here. Let’s move beyond awareness and take action to open doors, build inclusive workforces, and tap into an often-overlooked talent pool.