With the help of a wage subsidy through the Neil Squire Society’s Working Together program, Special Olympics Saskatchewan(new window) was able to hire an individual who is a “great fit”.

Special Olympics Saskatchewan is an organization dedicated to enriching the lives of individuals with intellectual disabilities, cognitive delay, or developmental disabilities through sport. Its vision is that sport will open hearts and minds towards people with intellectual disabilities and create inclusive communities all over the world.

As CEO Faye Matt describes, Special Olympics Saskatchewan has evolved from a “small kitchen table operation” to an established organization with eight full-time employees. They offer year-round sports programs in over 17 Saskatchewan communities, and their programs operate with the support of over 600 volunteers.

A Working Together participant was interested in working at Special Olympics Saskatchewan and approached the organization. The Working Together program helps people with disabilities develop the skills they need to achieve their employment goals.

The participant’s Job Developer at the Neil Squire Society contacted Faye to follow up with his application, explaining the available programs and services for clients and employers. After an interview with the applicant to assess his abilities, the organization hired him on.

Faye says, “The individual we hired has theoretical knowledge that made him a great fit for our projects. He is eager to gain experience in many different practical applications. He is fitting in very well with our corporate culture.

“Although he is in a wheelchair, no physical accommodations were made. We had a discussion in regards to the lack of access in certain areas of our office due to the wheelchair, and that this issue will be addressed and accommodated in the future.”

She adds, “I would recommend working with the Neil Squire Society and Working Together Program to other businesses.”