What we can do for you
We provide services for:
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Persons with a diagnosed or undiagnosed disability, regardless of whether they are PDD-funded or unfunded
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Individuals aged 16 and older, whether they have experience or minimal training and experience
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Individuals looking for full-time, part-time, or casual hours
Employment Preparation
Employment Preparation enhances employability through personalized interaction and skill-building. Our comprehensive program helps individuals discover their strengths and interests, aligning them with suitable job opportunities. Columbia College courses cover personal development, computer skills, work-related academics, job search, and safety. Participants gain work experience, refining skills, exploring interests, and networking with potential employers.
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Comprehensive Career Support
Our program offers comprehensive career support, providing guidance on resume building, interview preparation, and career coaching. We equip you with the tools and resources to confidently navigate the job market and secure your dream job.
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Skill Development and Training
We prioritize your professional growth and offer skill development programs and training opportunities to enhance your capabilities. Whether it's through workshops, courses, or industry-specific certifications, we help you acquire in-demand skills that make you a competitive candidate.
Employment Matching
CSSD staff facilitate the Employment Matching process, ensuring a suitable fit between individuals and employers. Job carving modifies duties to align with skills. CSSD offers job search assistance, networking, and ongoing support. Staff provide on-the-job training, coaching, and soft skills development. Ongoing support ensures a positive work environment and addresses challenges for success.
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Access to Employers
By joining our program, you gain access to a network of top employers who actively seek talent from our pool of job seekers. This opens doors to exciting job opportunities and increases your chances of landing a position with a reputable organization.
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Inclusive Work Environments
We partner with employers who value diversity and foster inclusive work environments. By joining our program, you increase your chances of working in organizations that promote equal opportunities, respect individual differences, and embrace diverse perspectives.
Employment Sustainment
Employment Sustainment offers ongoing support for long-term success. Tailored services include coaching, mentoring, and job retention strategies. Advocacy and support create an accommodating work environment. CSSD staff closely collaborate with individuals and employers, providing necessary support until it's no longer needed. This program ensures resources for maintaining employment success and achieving career goals.
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Mentorship & Networking
Our program connects you with experienced mentors and professionals who can provide valuable guidance and support throughout your career journey. Additionally, you have the opportunity to network with peers and industry experts, expanding your professional connections.
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Driving Social Change Through Education
We are passionate about driving social change and advocating for more inclusive hiring practices among all employers. By partnering with us, you actively contribute to this cause and become a catalyst for positive transformation in the workforce.
Our Values and Principles
We provide person-centred services, designed and developed around the unique interests, abilities, and support needs of each individual.
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We facilitate community inclusion and diversity with a particular focus on creating, increasing, and/or sustaining the capacity of communities to welcome these individuals.
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We perform our work with the highest levels of accountability, responsibility, and integrity
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We actively involve each individual and where applicable their support team, including the individual’s guardians and family members, CSS-DIAD regional staff, service provider(s), support staff, and other relevant stakeholders in the service planning process, decision-making, and implementation.
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We advocate for the right of each person to make and change their decisions as they so desire, to have self-determination and control over their lives.
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We are dedicated and committed to assisting each person to develop lifelong relationships within their communities through employment, volunteerism, social activities, arts, education, recreation, community association, and community resources.
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We encourage each individual to use their talents, skills, and abilities in providing leadership with their peers and within the community.
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People with disabilities are individuals who have the same rights, entitlements, responsibilities, expectations, and opportunities as every citizen of Canada and Alberta, as per the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, and the Alberta Human Rights Act.
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We treat everyone with dignity and respect.
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We recognize these individuals as people first, defined by their own strengths, abilities, and inherent value as contributing members of the community, not by their disability.
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We view each person from a positive perspective in recognizing and supporting the development of their talents, skills and abilities.
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We promote independence and protect the rights of each person through education, information sharing, and advocacy.
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We provide person-centered services, designed and developed around the unique interests, abilities and support needs of each individual.
