DR
Employment Services
DR, a father struggling with addiction issues, reached out to the Calgary John Howard Society (CJHS) for support with finding employment. He attended an employment services orientation and registered for LEEP training, which he completed successfully. He then attended one-on-one job search support sessions and remained optimistic, carefully researching companies before applying for open positions. He took short term temp jobs while looking for long-term employment, being mindful of his work environment as he continued to work hard to overcome his addictions.
DR applied for a seasonal outside maintenance job at CJHS and was excited to be hired into the role. He worked on a chain link fence replacement at one of the residential locations and enjoyed working with his supervisor and team members, appreciating and contributing to the positive workplace culture. DR was sometimes given the opportunity to be a team lead, and he felt proud seeing the work he completed come together. He was repeatedly called back to work on other jobs with the CJHS team.
DR has maintained contact with his Employment Developer and updated them on his progress. He accepted a temporary acting job in a movie being filmed in Calgary, paid off his traffic fines, and was saving to purchase a car. DR is grateful for the mentoring he received from the staff at CJHS, who believed in his abilities and encouraged him to be the best he could be in the workplace and in his personal life.
DR’s success in finding employment and working towards his personal goals shows the progress he has made with the support of CJHS’s Employment Services team. His story highlights the positive impact that employment support programs can have on individuals facing challenges such as addiction and unemployment.
DR is one of many clients who received help in 2022 from the Employment Services team at CJHS. Here are quotes from a few other clients who were asked what they liked about participating in CJHS Employment Services programs:
Client Quotes
69 clients received individualized support from Pathway to Employment (PTE) and 97% reported increased confidence in themselves and their employability after working with Employment Developers
31 clients engaged in the Collaborative Employment Inclusion Project (CEIP) resulting in:
Of 50 LEEP group participants who were successfully contacted 1 month following program completion, had found employment.
The positive effect of employing those with criminal justice involvement extends past the value our learners can bring to employers; it also contributes to the safety of our community in general, as increased employment and community involvement correlates with decreased rates of recidivism. Research has shown a positive correlation between having good, sustainable employment and the avoidance of criminal behaviour.
This is no surprise: employment provides income, the opportunity to become a socially valued member of a community, provides opportunity to develop networks of support, and builds knowledge and self-esteem.”
Impact Stories
John
The Literacy & Learning Program (LLP) is a beacon in adult literacy education, significantly impacting local communities and correctional facilities. In 2022, it served 242 learners, fostering literacy and confidence amid challenges linked to crime. Its impact, reflected in stories like John’s, transcends individuals to deliver societal benefits, including lower recidivism and improved community safety. The LLP disrupts the crime cycle and equips learners with vital life tools.
Ian
In 2022, a client from our GECOS program exemplified our theme of “Risk and Reward.” Despite the threats associated with leaving a gang, they courageously sought support, aiming for independence and freedom. Their determination peaked as they decided to remove their gang-related tattoos – a significant, risky step towards a brighter, self-determined future, showcasing the profound rewards of taking calculated risks.
Lily
At Berkana, we don’t just provide services, we cultivate deep, transformative relationships with the women on their journey towards recovery and reintegration. In 2022, we were privileged to be part of the healing and growth of 31 incredible women. One remarkable story is that of “Lily,” who arrived at Berkana seeking stability, acceptance, and a new path forward.