Supporting adults with intellectual disabilities to live happier and more productive lives through guidance, mentorship, and camaraderie is endlessly rewarding.
Empowering people who have been historically marginalized to become active community members makes me proud to be part of the process. Throughout my 24 year career, I have been given opportunities to recognize the uniqueness of each person I have had the honour to support and allow them to express their individual gifts and talents. That, I feel, is my greatest accomplishment. Working as a direct support worker has taught me the true meaning of determination, selflessness, and unconditional acceptance.
Sheri, Direct Support Professional – Cosmopolitan Industries
To see their view of themselves become more positive is so rewarding. To be a part of each person’s growth is more than I can ask for.
I am honored to be accepted by each person as a part of their lives. I feel each person should have an equal opportunity and unfortunately sometimes that is not the case. Advocating in the best interest of each person can hopefully bring more opportunities. Employment, education, independence, and self-esteem are things every person is entitled to. Helping people with disabilities achieve those goals, and seeing the happiness they create for themselves is so great. I only hope they see me as I see them and I exceed their expectations as they have exceeded mine.
Lee, Mental Health and Addictions Worker – NorthSask Special Needs
At COR, everyone has a say and that impacts the work environment.
The rewards are seeing challenges and either overcoming them or seeing a new perspective in life. I love working with people with disabilities because it is fun getting to know other people and being able to impact their life just like they impact mine.
Krystal, Team Lead – Creative Options Regina
I love that people experiencing disabilities can be some of the most honest people that you’ll ever meet.
Each day brings a new challenge, at the program, I work for I find the participants teach me just as much as I teach them. I really appreciate their honesty, and ability to say it like they see it. I have learned to be patient as some cannot express their needs and wants very easily. They are the most fun, loving, and honest people I have ever had the honor to meet and work with.
If you have ever experienced the feeling of being known, noticed, and missed, you don’t know what you are missing. In the summer of 2018, I had surgery and had to be away from work for almost 3 months. When I returned I received so many hugs and people saying how much they missed me. It brought such happy tears, and my heart was filled with such joy and the feeling of being loved. I have had a few jobs in my lifetime, but none as fulfilling as the one I am in right now.
I have found my forever career.
Debbie, Direct Support Worker - Cosmopolitan Industries
Our residents are fun and caring.
Working with them has become less of a job and more like spending time with my family. I care about all of them…we get to go out and have fun all while doing our job. Every day I go home I get the rewarding feeling that I have made someone’s day better.
Our residents are truly amazing! I wouldn’t change it for the world.
Karin, Direct Support Worker - Wynyard C.A.R.R.E.S.
You are doing something worthwhile that will have a lasting impression. There is no better drive or motivation, if only to be a better person each day, and do something that is beyond yourself.
Jesse, Program Coordinator - Multiworks Corporation
Finding new activities in the community for participants to take part in is rewarding. This job suits my home life well. I have a daughter with disabilities and this job permits me to be at home with her when school is done.
My employer is flexible when I need to be with her. Working here has taught me different approaches and more patience.
Mel, Day Program Manager - NorthSask Special Needs
I knew I always wanted to work with people and to make a difference in their lives. What I never expected was how much my life would be positively impacted by both those with disabilities that I have had the honour to work with or the many staff. There are many things I am proud of however it is the staff’s passion and commitment to make a difference each and every day for our participants that is indescribable.
I have worked at the same organization for over 28 years and the opportunities to gain experience in so many roles has been incredible. They say if you love your job it never feels like work - I understand that! Consider a career with a SARC Member, I highly recommend it!
Sharlene, Executive Director - Cosmopolitan Industries