Archive for June, 2011

Warren Adds to his Skill Set

Tuesday, June 14th, 2011

Warren has been participating in the Neil Squire Society’s Computer Comfort program in Burnaby, British Columbia (new window) for almost a year. In that time he has been learning how to use all of the programs in the Microsoft Office Suite (new window). He hopes that by expanding his knowledge of computers he will be more attractive to employers.

Degrading disks in his neck and back causes him a host of problems including muscle spasms, discomfort and sleep deprivation. Having worked in sales and marketing for much of his life, Warren has many people-oriented skills such as his ability to cold call and to discuss topics “off the cuff” but his computer skills were lacking. “Most any job these days requires you to have computer skills. Companies want someone who knows what’s going on and who is able to figure out how to do things,” says Warren.

Warren hopes to find a satisfying new career now that he has the computer skills to match his people skills.

Good luck, Warren!

If you would like to make a donation to support others like Warren, you may do so here.

Perseverance pays off for Elaine

Tuesday, June 7th, 2011

Elaine, who has Devic’s Disease (new window), had almost completed her Bachelor of Business Administration at Kwantlen University (new window) when she was transitioned to the Neil Squire Society’s Job Focus program from the BC Paraplegic Association (new window). Job Focus staff assisted Elaine, a Certified Professional Purchaser, to complete her Bachelor of Business Administration and invigilated her as she wrote the Purchasing Registration Exam to become a Level 2 Purchaser. Afterward, Elaine began her job search with the help of a Job Focus program Employment Specialist.

Elaine struggled with health issues and a difficult labour market, but she persevered and with the assistance of the Employment Specialist, she secured a Material Resource Analyst position at Vancouver Coastal Health (new window). ”I appreciate your support and encouragement to apply for purchasing positions where they consistently ask for experience,” says Elaine. “Thanks again for being my cheerleader.”

We wish Elaine all the best in her new found career!

If you would like to make a donation to support others like Elaine, you may do so here.