Trillium grant assists Community Living job program

The important role that an Ontario Trillium Foundation grant played in Community Living Tillsonburg’s Job Path program was recognized at the graduation ceremony. Left to right are: Mike Bratton, employment specialist with CLT; Brodie McCooey; Corey Janzen; Eric Depeste; Curtis Gauvin; Paul Bognar; Ernie Hardeman, Oxford MPP; Alan Dale, Trillium review team member; and Deb Gilvesy, mayor of Tillsonburg. (Jeff Helsdon Photo)

Jeff Helsdon, Editor

A $99,300 Ontario Trillium Foundation grant played a big role in the Community Living Tillsonburg job program.

In a recent ceremony, eight graduates of the program, dressed in caps and gowns, accepted graduation certificates and a congratulations scroll from MPP Ernie Hardeman. The day was also an opportunity to express gratitude to the Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) for providing funding to hire a full-time facilitator for the program.

JobPath is a 6-week comprehensive employment preparation program designed to equip participants with the skills and confidence needed to succeed in the job market. This project will enable participants to become job-ready in the community and to utilize and develop marketable skills. They received ongoing support with their performance and paid placement. Participants raised self-awareness about their skills and how and where to put these skills to use. Evaluations give specific feedback for students' strengths and areas for improvement.

“The impact of this Ontario Trillium Foundation grant cannot be overstated,” said Lorie Arends, Employment Coordinator of Community Living Tillsonburg (CLT).

“Without the funding, our program couldn’t exist,” said Mike Bratton, CLT employment specialist.

The grant allowed CLT to hire a full-time facilitator as well as provided funding for a venue.

“Congratulations to Community Living Tillsonburg on receiving this important Trillium grant to support vocational training and job coaching for individuals with disabilities, “said Ernie Hardeman, MPP for Oxford. “Your commitment to building skills, confidence, and independence is helping create a more inclusive and empowered community.”

Family and employers who took part in the program were also in attendance. Mike Gayzley, who owns three of the Tim Hortons outlets in town with his wife, Christina, spoke highly of the CLT clients whom they employed.

“It’s been a good breath of fresh air for our staff,” he said.