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Lethbridge Family Services, file photo. (Image: Lethbridge News Now)

Lethbridge Family Services offering employment training for adults with disabilities

Aug 30, 2022 | 2:37 PM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – Adults with developmental disabilities now have a new avenue to get the skills they need for employment.

Lethbridge Family Services (LFS), through its DaCapo Disability Services Department, has announced the creation of the Reaching Independence through Skills and Employment (RISE) program.

RISE is a 10-month employment skills-centered certificate program for adults with developmental disabilities.

LFS Program Development CoordinatorJennifer van der Kooij says the training will include in-class sessions and practicums, using both theoretical and practical learning approaches.

“This new program will provide participants, in Lethbridge and area, the opportunity to advance their personal development and build knowledge and skills to prepare for the local labour market” says van der Kooij. “Our aim is to have participants employed in competitive and meaningful employment by the end of the program.”

Program participants will take courses in life skills, workplace math and literacy, and work preparation, in addition to practicums.

Community Supports Program Manager Lynette Taal says she hopes to have approximately 20 students enrolled in the RISE program.

“We believe every community member deserves the chance to fully participate in their communities and RISE supports that goal by also providing a strong pathway to employment for persons with developmental disabilities,” says Taal.

Applications for the RISE program will open on September 1, 2022. Programming is expected to start on January 9, 2023.

Learn more, including how to apply, on the Lethbridge Family Services website.

READ MORE: Lethbridge News Now