Archive for the ‘Success Stories’ Category

Bryan Learns How to Overcome his Personal Barriers

Monday, January 17th, 2011

Bryan, who has cerebral palsy (new window), had trouble finding a job after high school. He explored some post secondary school options, but soon dropped the idea because he didn’t know how to approach people about his disability. “My fears about my disability prevented me from carrying on in any direction except full retreat,” said Bryan.

A friend referred him to the Neil Squire Society’s Employ-Ability program in Regina, Saskatchewan. “I was nervous about it at first, yet I eventually accepted that this program may be able to help me,” said Bryan.

The Neil Squire Society has helped Bryan start moving forward again by encouraging growth through positive influence. “They allowed me to identify my own personal barriers that were holding me back, as well as ways to overcome and manage them,” said Bryan. “I was even able to identify my personality type which allowed me to focus my energies on jobs that would suit me best. Another good thing I learned is how to approach employers about my disability without any fear.”

Bryan ultimately hopes to become a video game developer and is working with Job Development Facilitator, Steve Zary, to find a job. “I want to start by working in a store that sells video games, so I can learn more about them and also save money for a training program,” said Bryan. “After completing the EA program, I now know that cerebral palsy does not have to hold me back. I can do anything I want.”

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

Trudy in her own words

Tuesday, December 14th, 2010

“The facilitators at the Footprints (new window) and Neil Squire Society are very supportive and helpful. The career and health and wellness information gave me the confidence to apply for work off reserve. I found this an excellent program for me.”

- Trudy, Employ-Ability participant

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

Sharon Is Back Up And Running

Tuesday, December 7th, 2010

Sharon has rheumatoid arthritis (new window) and was finding it difficult to keep a job because of her health. She was looking for help finding work when she came across a Neil Squire Society advertisement in the newspaper. After discussing the Employ-Ability program with Prairie Regional Manager, Nikki Lamb, Sharon enrolled in the program.

“I have learned a lot. I was shocked at how much I could put into a resume,” says Sharon. “Some of the best things I learned were the resume and cover letters, along with the informational interviews and mock interviews.”

Sharon really enjoyed the personality assessment portion of the program. “I thought that it defined me just about to a ‘T’. It also gave me insight into who I am and what I can possibly do,” says Sharon. “But most of all, I liked Wellness for Work because I have self-confidence issues that I have to build. The goal setting part is very good for me too, because I am a great procrastinator. Wellness for Work has helped me with a lot of issues I have been dealing with for a very long time.”

Sharon also learned about the different Assistive Technology options that were available to help her with her arthritis. “I am going to learn to use Dragon Naturally Speaking (new window). I have lots of trouble typing so I think this will help me.”

“I have a very positive feeling I will get a job in Data Processing or Bookkeeping,” says Sharon. “The EA program has boosted my confidence. I was at a very low place in my life for a while, but I am back up and running. Thank you for the benefit of the EA Program.”

Good luck, Sharon!

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