Share Your DDRC Story!

The DDRC's commemorative logo for 65 years.
The DDRC’s commemorative logo for 65 years.

Can you believe it? The DDRC is turning 65 this year! Founded in 1952, we have undergone many changes and have loads of stories to tell.

That’s where YOU come in! Do you have a story to share about the DDRC? Have you previously been involved with the DDRC? Maybe you worked here years ago, or you know a client who went to Christine Meikle School or Emily Follensbee School in the past. Maybe you came to our first ever Stampede Breakfast, or volunteered awhile back.

Whatever your story is, we want to hear it! Send us an email at info@ddrc.ca to tell us about your favourite memory, a random fact, a story, or to share a photo related to the DDRC.

So Long 2016, Welcome 2017

Happy New Year! The beginning of a year can often be both a time for reflection, and a time for planning for the future. We wanted to see what some of the staff and clients around the office were focusing on in early 2017; here’s what they had to say:

Maria M., Client Services Coordinator
Maria M., Client Services Coordinator

The best part of 2016 was that I applied for a position with the [Client Services Coordinators] team, and I got hired. That was my highlight. I am very happy to be here. I was a Community Resource Worker prior to coming into this position, so it is something different, but something challenging I think. I feel I’m heading in the right direction for 2017.”
– Maria M., Client Services Coordinator


Adam C., PACE Team Client
Adam C., PACE Team Client

I had some highlights in 2016. Presenting at the Inclusion Awards in September was one. I am looking forward to getting my driver’s license in 2017. Also, I’m hoping to get a job by the spring.”
– Adam C., PACE Team Client


Jessica L., PACE Team CRW
Jessica L., PACE Team CRW

The Holiday Open House was a great experience. Very fun. I got to work with one of our clients serving vegetables. I am looking forward to seeing great changes with each of the clients here as they learn and grow, and just having new adventures.”
– Jessica L., Community Resource Worker


 

Cieran R., PACE Team Client
Cieran R., PACE Team Client

I joined Toastmasters, and I think that it is a really good place for me to be. I’ve gotten pretty good at  it [public speaking]. I am mostly looking forward to working on writing creatively. I like writing stories.”
– Cieran R., PACE Team Client

 

2016 Inclusion Award Winners

Congratulations to this year’s award winners!

Award of Excellence – Arts and Culture Alexander Gorski
Award of Excellence – Career and Community Joey Duong
Award of Excellence – Career and Community Kieran Corrigan
Outstanding Self-Advocate Award Kais Mussa
Inclusive Education Award Dr. Gordon Higgins School
Inclusive Employer Award Gibson Energy Inc.
Inclusive Community Award Inside Out Theatre
Volunteer Spirit Award James Walters
Special Achievement Award Darrell Howard
Leadership Award Neemi Kassam
Team Spirit Award Client Services Coordinators
Agency Spirit Award Shannon Mills
everyone belongs™ Award Jessica Boulter

Thank you for the work that you do to make Calgary a more inclusive city!

Awards.

A DEAM Come True

deam-banner-chocolate-week

October is Disability Employment Awareness Month (DEAM), and we’re thrilled to be working with the Calgary Employment First Network (CEFN) again to let everyone know all about it!

The CEFN is hosting three great events this month to celebrate inclusive employment:

Wednesday, October 12: Let’s Talk Employment – Inclusive Leadership

What: Calgary Economic Development and the CEFN will discuss best business practices for creating a culture that embraces diversity. A panel of employers will share their experiences, challenges, and successes related to creating an environment where employees with disabilities can thrive. Register here.
When: 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
Where: Global Business Centre, Terrace View Room, 5th Floor; 136 8 Avenue SE

Wednesday, October 19: DEAM Film Festival

What: Bow Valley College, in partnership with the CEFN and Picture This…Film Festival, are pleased to offer a unique one day film festival focusing on employment and individuals with disabilities as part of the workforce. There will be a broad selection of films highlighting local and international perspectives on this important issue, with opportunities for discussion. Register here.
When: 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Where: Bow Valley College, North Campus Theatre, Room N124; 345 6 Avenue SE

Thursday, October 20: New Conversations

What: This unique seminar is ideal for Calgary HR Professionals, Managers, and business owners.  ‘Workplace Diversity Strategies: Utilizing Universal Design to Build an Inclusive Organization’ will provide Calgary Employers with insights, information and tools to build their capacity to engage in inclusive recruitment and create inclusive workplaces.
When: 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Register here.
Where:
Caffé Artigiano; 5010 Richard Road SW

Wednesday, October 26: #DEAMEmployer Awards Gala

What: Calgary has so many incredible employers, and it’s time to celebrate them! Nominations are rolling in, and will be accepted up until October 16, 2016. Join us as we celebrate DEAM and recognize this year’s DEAM Employer Award recipients. Contact Prospect Human Services’ Alexi Davis to register.
When: 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Where: Engineered Air Theatre; 205 8 Avenue SE

Looking for more information? Visit the CEFN website.

everyone belongs™ Movie in the Park

On Friday, September 9, you’re invited to the everyone belongs™ Movie in the Park! This free, family-friendly event will be hosted at the Rutland Park Community Centre (3130 40 Ave SW), in the field beside the skating rink. Each year, we feature a short film from the Picture This… Film Festival, and then a full-length favourite (“Finding Nemo”) that the whole family will be sure to love. Our movie night starts at 7:45 p.m. Remember that this is an outdoor event, so we encourage you to bring chairs, blankets, and to dress for the weather.

Outdoor Movie 2015

Mark Your Calendars: Upcoming Events in September

We know you’re enjoying the summer, but we’re looking forward to September. Why? Because of two excellent reasons: Our 4th annual everyone belongs™ Movie in the Park, and our 21st annual Inclusion Awards!

Our annual Movie in the Park at the RPCA Hall.
Our annual Movie in the Park at the RPCA Hall.

On Friday, September 9, you’re invited to the everyone belongs™ Movie in the Park! This free, family-friendly event will be hosted at the Rutland Park Community Association, in the field beside the skating rink. Each year, we feature a short film from the Picture This… Film Festival, and then a full-length favourite that the whole family will be sure to love.

Guests get to dress up at our Inclusion Awards photo booth.
Guests get to dress up at our Inclusion Awards photo booth.

On Thursday, September 22 you’re also invited to our Inclusion Awards gala at the Glenmore Inn! In addition to honouring Calgarians who have gone above and beyond in promoting community inclusion and advocacy, this free event features an evening of entertainment, a silent auction, a delicious dinner, and more.

Keep your eyes on our Facebook page for more details on both of these events as the dates get closer!