L to R: Justin Tams and Janessa Sebok (Community Employment Practitioners), and RISE graduate Justine Huvenaars. (Photo supplied by Lethbridge Family Services)

By Justin Goulet

Lethbridge Family Services celebrates graduates of new program

Oct 31, 2023 | 11:16 AM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – A program offered by Lethbridge Family Services (LFS) has shown success through its recent graduates.

The Reaching Independence through Skills & Employment (RISE) program is a transitional vocational program recognized by the Alberta government.

The 10-month program aims to help individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities find employment. Participants develop their skills through in-class instruction and work-integrated learning.

The first group of participants graduated from RISE on Friday, October 27, 2023.

Graduate Justine Huvenaars said, “The work experience opportunities I’ve had while in the RISE program haven’t just improved my work skills, I’ve also learned better time management, communication, and problem-solving.”

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She added, “I use city transit to get to and from work, so I learn new bus routes, which builds my confidence to get where I need to go.”

The Lethbridge-based non-profit noted that, to date, it is the only non-profit in southern Alberta contracted to offer the program, which is usually delivered by academic institutions.

READ MORE: Lethbridge News Now.

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