A new program funded by the provincial government is looking to give Albertans with disabilities more employment opportunities.
On Thursday, Premier Dave Hancock announced the Employment First Innovation Fund at the second annual symposium on employment and persons with disabilities in Edmonton.
The $2 million grant program was created to encourage organizations to offer supportive work environments that will improve the lives of Albertans with disabilities, enhance their skills, and make communities more inclusive, said Hancock.
Grants will be open to registered non-profit organizations, public educational institutions and registered companies.
“Meaningful employment and community connection helps individuals build relationships for a more fulfilled life,” said Hancock.
The Alberta government also created 20 new paid internship opportunities through the Employment First Internship Program. The program is expected to attract more people with disabilities into working with Alberta Public Service.
Positions will be available in September. Applicants can apply through the Alberta Jobs website (jobs.alberta.ca) using the key word “intern.”
The Innovations at Work symposium brought together up to 500 employers, disability agency staff, educators, government staff and Albertans with disabilities.
The two-day event was jointly hosted by Alberta Human Services, Alberta Jobs, Skills, Training and Labour and Alberta Innovation and Advanced Education.
For more information on the Employment First strategy go to humanservices.alberta.ca and search for “employment first.”
