SUPPORTED EMPLOYMENT MONTH IN MARCH CELEBRATES FULL CITIZENSHIP AND DIVERSITY

The Government of Saskatchewan is celebrating Supported Employment Month in March as part of its continuing commitment to the full engagement of all citizens, including people with disabilities in the work force.

"Our government is committed to making Saskatchewan the best place in Canada to live for people with disabilities," Advanced Education, Employment and Immigration Minister Rob Norris said. "Our economy is growing at a record pace and we want to be sure more people can enjoy our prosperity and secure a fulfilling job."

Supported Employment Month was proclaimed last year to recognize valuable contributions made by community partners such as Saskatchewan Association of Community Living (SACL) who has received more than $110,000 this year from Advanced Education, Employment and Immigration (AEEI) to provide employment experience for students with disabilities.

"For many years, the Saskatchewan Association for Community Living has formed successful partnerships with organizations striving to diversify their hiring practices and work force that better reflects our society as a whole," SACL Executive Director Kevin McTavish said. "The SACL is very proud to support Saskatchewan employers who, more than ever, are enthusiastically hiring individuals with disabilities and congratulates Saskatchewan businesses who provide employment opportunities to individuals with disabilities."

AEEI assists job seekers, students and workers with disabilities by providing services and funding to help address the impact of disability.

More than $10.8 million in provincial government funds is available to address the impact of disability in the classroom and in the workplace.

This support is accessed through 19 local Career and Employment Services offices, Student Financial Assistance, disability support offices at SIAST campuses, regional colleges and the Universities of Regina and Saskatchewan and many community-based organizations that specialize in employment supports for people with disabilities.

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For more information, contact:

Marieka Andrew
Advanced Education, Employment and Immigration
Regina
Phone: 306-798-3170