Client Success: Rhonda Kottusch

Central client Rhonda Kottusch shows off the certificate she received from Gibson Energy.
Central client Rhonda Kottusch shows off the certificate she received from Gibson Energy.

Central Team client Rhonda Kottusch has much to be proud of. After starting as an administrative assistant with Gibson Energy in 2006, she has recently celebrated her 10th anniversary with the company.

Working two days a week, Kottusch takes care of duties such as refilling paper in the printers and copiers around the office, stocking supplies in the locker rooms and mail rooms, and delivers mail around the building.

In her daily work, Kottusch uses an augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) device to speak with her co-workers. Her AAC device is a tablet with a touchscreen where she can select messages to be read by a digital voice. Outside of work, she uses her device for social interaction in the community, which has enhanced her quality of life.

Described as almost always smiling and having a positive attitude, Kottusch’s coworkers value the effort and dedication she puts in at the office each day.

When not working, Kottusch likes to stay busy by being involved in sports, music, and drumming classes.

Client Success: Eileen McLachlan

South Team client Eileen McLaughlin is recognized by her manager at Canyon Meadows GoodLife Fitness.
South Team client Eileen McLachlan is recognized by her manager at Canyon Meadows GoodLife Fitness.

South Team client Eileen McLachlan is celebrating a proud anniversary this year; she has just reached her 12th year as an employee with GoodLife Fitness.

In her role at the Canyon Meadows location, McLachlan is described as diligent, positive, and enthusiastic when it comes to her work.

Kelsi Foreman, general manager at the gym, has worked alongside McLachlan for the past year, and said she feels it is “an honour” to be her co-worker.

“She is a light in our club,” Foreman said. ” I have seen so much growth in her ability and willingness to learn and adapt. Our club would not be the same without her.”

Community Resource Worker Diwani Tan Aparis said that working with McLachlan is fun and fulfilling. “I admire her desire and love for work,” she said.

“Her positive attitude, dedication, and hard work have garnered her lots of praise.”

Another Wonderful DEAM

We are thrilled to say that this year’s Disability Employment Awareness Month was a huge success! With a variety of great events focusing on the importance of inclusive employment, there was something for everyone to enjoy.

Among the events was the DEAM Employer Awards, which recognized local businesses and corporations for their inclusive hiring practices. We were excited to see 120 guests at the event!

The DDRC was proud to nominate three businesses:

Men in Kilts
Canyon Meadows Golf Club
United Active Living Communities

Men in Kilts sent us the following message:

“I wanted to reach out and formally thank you for nominating Men In Kilts for a DEAM Employer Award. It was truly a great honor to be in attendance with all those great employers. It was exciting to see the number, size and diversity of businesses at the gala. Overall the event left me with a great sense of pride in what’s been accomplished so far, but also hopeful and excited for the future. Thank you again.”

Take a look at the images below to see some of this year’s DEAM highlights: