FALL 2013 News from SARC and its Members about the disability services sector in Saskatchewan
Update Celebrate e Success Pa age Launched on SAR RC’s Website (page 8) Watch the Award Recipient Vide eos Online
The SARC Update is published by SARC 111 Cardinal Crescent Saskatoon, SK S7L 6H5 www.sarcsarcan.ca Editor: Sydney Smith, Communications
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September 5th, 2013 was a wonderful day for Battlefords Residential Services Inc.! Ribbons were cut to officially open two new group homes, as well as a new Handi-Bus. It was a warm day filled with sunshine. A large number of people attended. The two new homes had been in the planning for several years and it was wonderful to have the homes completed and officially opened.
Meadow Manor is located at 1731 – 102nd Street and is home for five individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities. Yvonne’s Home is located at 2431 Kildeer Drive and is home for six young women with intellectual disabilities. The home was named in honour of Yvonne Nyholt, who has been on the Board of Directors at BRSI for close to 30 years. The lower level of Yvonne’s Home has two apartments for individuals in the Supported Living Program (SLP), including space for SLP’s Supper Club. At the Official Openings, Social Services Minister June Draude was presented with a commemorative hard hat by the BRSI Board Chair, Yvonne Nyholt. A number of others were honoured with hard hats for their efforts in helping BRSI grow to the agency it is today, including: current BRSI Board Members; previous Board Members; Glenn and Caren Hornick, for a very generous donation; Chris Odishaw of Battleford Furniture for his generous donation towards appliances and furniture; Lyle Schell of Lyle Schell Construction Management Ltd.; David
Ribbon cutting for Yvonne’s Home (From L to R): Terry Green, SLP apartment resident; Albin Mathew, House Manager; The Honourable June Draude, Minister of Social Services; Yvonne Nyholt, BRSI Chairperson; Kirsten Hancock, SLP apartment resident; Victoria Machniak, house resident; Deborah Bartlett, BRSI Executive Director; Lyle Schell, Contractor; Herb Cox, MLA for The Battlefords.
Vaughn, Site Foreman; Jerry Wintonyk, Inspector; David Ratzlaff, SARC Facility Planning Facilitator; and Robert Clipperton, Government of Saskatchewan, Community Living Service Delivery. Leanne Wildeman of the Kinsmen Foundation was in attendance to cut the ribbon for the agency’s new Handibus. The Kinsmen Foundation had contributed $26,700.00 towards its purchase. “This is an important day for North Battleford,” Draude said. “All across our province, organizations like Battlefords Residential Services are helping people with intellectual disabilities play an active role in their communities. Our government is proud to support those efforts.” “We wish to thank the Ministry of Social Services for the funding and support we received, which has enabled us to complete two beautiful homes; they will be great assets to our organization, clients and staff,” Nyholt said. Battlefords Residential Services Inc. supports 34 individuals in six group homes, provides day programming for 10 people, and provides independent living services for another 15.
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Ituna’s Busy Summer Includes Fun in the Sun Day Program Facelift: During the last week in July, the Leadership Team, Maintenance Worker, Team Leader and two clients at Deer Park Villa did an exceptional job of completely over-hauling our Day Program centre. We gave it a fresh look and painted it entirely, laid down new vinyl baseboards, rearranged the furniture into better placement, and decorated with some curtains, pictures, and wall stickers. We also organized everything and gave the room a thorough cleaning. We built a room separator out of materials we had in one of our homes as well. We had a Grand Re-opening and celebrated the changes with a pizza dinner, along with some Board Members and Wynyard/Wadena clients. We invite everyone to come and take a look at the very positive changes that this group of people made happen in such a short amount of time!
Ituna Regional Park: This summer was absolutely beautiful! There were lots of opportunities for outings to Ituna’s Regional Park, such as going for picnics and going swimming. We thoroughly enjoy the outside picnics and relaxing under the shade of the trees and going for a dip in the pool. We feel fortunate to have this local opportunity, and we hope the pool and park remain in operation for years to come.
Motherwell Homestead: We went on a group outing to the Motherwell Homestead, just outside of Abernethy, in late August. We toured the grounds, house and buildings which brought us back to days long ago. We watched the large and miniature threshing demonstrations, and we watched a demonstration on how to hang pictures in the olden days. There was also a blacksmith demonstration, a homemade ice cream demonstration, a game of croquet, as well as dressing up in old fashioned clothing. We had a wonderful picnic on the grounds of hamburgers and hotdogs and drinks while enjoying the beauty around us. We hope to make this an annual outing.
Camp O’Neil Day: On July 22, 2013, all of our clients attended a day camp called Camp O’Neil in Bangor, SK. Invitations were extended to children and adults with intellectual disabilities throughout the area. There was a wiener roast, crafts and music, a Chinese supper and a dance to finish the day. We try to take in such amazing opportunities as often as possible!
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In late September, the participants and day program staff at Handiworks were invited by the Walcer family, owners of Tobin Lake Resort, for a day trip to Tobin Lake. Management made application to the Minister of Environment for Complimentary Angling Licenses for the participants, many of which had not had the opportunity to go fishing or go for a boat ride before. Tobin Lake Resort was prepared to provide all services for the full day. HandiWorks had never been involved in a venture like this before. We made all of the necessary arrangements, including the meal, and we had a great time. After we received confirmation that the Complimentary Angling Licenses were approved, the date was set. Participants and day program staff drove to Tobin Lake the morning of September 18, 2013. There was some concern about cool temperature and possible rain; however, as boats were loaded, the sun began to shine and the whole time people were comfortable. When we arrived, the participants split into groups, one for fishing and the other for boat riding.
Tobin Lake Resort provided boats, fuel, life jackets, boat operators, bait, tackle and even the barbecues that were used for the meal. Resort owners and staff were joined by the members of the Tobin Lake community who also provided boats, tackle, and more. Some community members also assisted by cooking the meal. Two of the community volunteers are former SARC Board Presidents: Bernie Brigadear and Darwyn Worsley. Everyone had a great time. The experience was a great learning opporunity for both the community and the HandiWorks group. HandiWorks would like to extend a huge thank you to the Walcer family, their staff and the volunteers from Tobin Lake who assisted in making this event a great success.
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It’s Time to Shine at Cosmopolitan Industries The world is full of good ideas, but where do they come from? I suppose there are as many sources for them as ideas themselves, but I truly believe epiphanies are at the core of some our very finest. Archimedes had an epiphany regarding the principle of buoyancy when taking a bath. My epiphany arrived shortly after reading a quote by Andy Warhol, “In the future everybody will be world famous for fifteen minutes.” As I pondered the ramifications of his statement I came to believe that in essence it means people want to be recognized. My ‘a-ha’ moment came when I thought of a way to give adults with intellectual disabilities a moment to be recognized; to have their fifteen minutes of fame, so to speak, and so the Pathways Fashion Show came to be! Once a year, The Pathways to Opportunity Division of Cosmopolitan Industries Limited hosts a fashion show in the gymnasium. The gym is full of spectators and the mood is electric! Pop music heightens an atmosphere that is filled with excitement and glamour. For the afternoon, any participant who wants to be a model can walk the catwalk and strut his or her stuff. Amid the flashing of cameras and cheers from the crowd they can walk up and down the runway and receive a certificate of recognition as an official Cosmo Model. It doesn’t matter what our models wear; every person has a unique style, whether it was dressed to the nines or in work-day casuals. During the show, the emcee described the models’ ensembles as they walked proudly and paraded new outfits before an audience. Examples heard were things like, “the lovely detailing on a summer blouse worn with a sharp looking pair of capri pants and matched with a pair of white sneakers embossed with silver”, or, “a jaunty ball cap pulled off to the side just so, teamed with relaxed fit jeans and high-top runners.” No matter what the models wore that day they look good! The models were ready for anything and everything, from an afternoon hang out with friends, or perhaps going out with that someone special for burgers and a pop. At that moment they are glamorous models showing off their personal style to the crowd, and they truly do shine! You can see it in the models’ faces and in the way they move. They are in the spotlight and loving every minute of it! During short intermissions, the very talented participants - the Cosmo Dancers - performed some awesome dance moves for the audience. There was cheering, clapping and excitement abound. It was so much fun that some of our models came back down the catwalk for seconds, thirds and even fourths! It wasn’t just the younger people who want that moment in the lime light. Our models encompass all ages, both sexes, and all personality types. The staff was surprised when an unusually shy or quiet individual would vie for his or her moment of recognition in front of a crowd. The staff at Cosmo worked hard to pull off this event, from those who managed the music and took the pictures, to those who ensured participants had a chance to model on the catwalk. The annual fashion show is truly a heartwarming and spirit-lifting event allowing the people we support to shine!
Clearview Group Home Receives Tub Upgrade The Langenburg & District Activity Centre is pleased to announce the purchase of a new hydromassage tub and lift for the Clearview Group Home in Langenburg. Our current hydro tub and lift at Clearview Group Home was installed in 1990 during the original construction of the house. After 22 years of regular use, the tub and lift have deteriorated past repair. The company that built and supplied parts for the tub and lift has since gone out of business. Public Health inspections determined the tub and lift were unsafe and needed to be replaced. We decided to appeal to local organizations and church groups to assist in raising monies to help pay for the $30,000 cost of the tub and installation. We received a combined total of $11,172.00 from Saskatchewan Housing Corporation and local service groups and churches. We appealed to the Kinsmen Foundation for the remainder of the cost of the tub and lift. They agreed to pay the remaining $16,158.00. On behalf of the staff and participants, we want to take this opportunity to thank all those who gave donations toward this much needed tub.
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Autism Services of Saskatoon is excited to announce that work has begun on two new group homes in Saskatoon’s new Evergreen subdivision. We will be working with Schwinghammer Contract Management over the next year to build two homes that will specifically meet the needs of the individuals with Autism who will reside there. The homes will be built with planned features that will provide safety and durability, as well as a comfortable and stable atmosphere. The homes are designed with an open concept that is visually calm and will also provide space for privacy and choice. The individuals who will live in these homes have been waiting a long time to have a home of their own and we look forward to supporting them. For more information, please call Glenda Kpelly at Autism Services at (306)665-7013 or www.autismservices.ca.
On Friday, September 20, 2013 Harvest Community, Inc. delivered brand new company t-shirts to all staff and everyone participating in our programs. We graciously received a donation from Vale Potash Canada Limited to provide t-shirts to everyone at Harvest Community Farm and our SARCAN depot employees. We were very grateful to Vale Potash Canada Limited for the donation which provided us with this opportunity. We see these t-shirts being worn on a daily basis!
Weyburn Wor-Kin Shop Corp.’s new Day Program Building will provide three times the amount of space and will offer significantly enhanced options for programs and services, which are not possible at the current overcrowded location. The brand new, fully modern SARCAN Recycling Depot will be more than twice the size of the current space. The building design will incorporate enhanced customer service lanes, enhanced material handling capabilities, and improved staff facilities. The new Vocational Training Centre will house the agency’s wood shop and the Paper & Cardboard recycling operations, which provides employment opportunities for those with intellectual disabilities and supplies products and services to Southeast Saskatchewan. Staff and program participants are looking forward to these new locations.
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Summer Fun Program Lives Up to its Name Saskatchewan Abilities Council works with people of varying abilities to enhance their independence and participation in the community through vocational, rehabilitation and quality of life services. The Summer Fun Program provides children and youth with severe physical disabilities, ages six to 22 years, an opportunity to make new friends, learn new skills, and enjoy safe and challenging outings within the community through organized recreational and leisure activities. Participating in Summer Fun not only offers an excitement-filled and memorable summer, but also provides parents comfort, knowing that their children have an opportunity to become more self-confident and independent while participating in fun and healthy activities with a group of peers. Between July 1 and August 31 2013, the Summer Fun program provided recreation and leisure activities to 30 young people with severe physical disabilities from the Saskatoon community. Two youth coordinators and a group of trained volunteers provided the necessary support to allow this time away from adult caregivers. In 2013, Summer Fun had an amazing 41 volunteers who contributed 685 hours of their time in just two short months. Of these volunteers, 13 were returning for their second summer or more. Transportation was also provided to and from the activities by First Student Canada. Participants were picked up at their homes and each individual had the opportunity to choose activities, such as: swimming, bowling, spray parks, mini-golf, billiards, Pike Lake, the Fringe, Wanuskewin Heritage Park, the Strawberry Ranch, the Taste of Saskatchewan, and the fair! New outings to venues such as Wet Paint Pottery and a wheelchair accessible park were also added in order to offer further exciting experiences in 2013. On August 22, 2013, Summer Fun offered a spectacular wind-up party at the River Landing Amphitheatre. The event included a number of local musicians, face painters, and a caricaturist. The event invitation was extended to all participants, their families and/or caregivers, volunteers, and the program’s bus drivers. Guests enjoyed tasty treats and had a great time dancing and laughing the afternoon away. Members of the general public were also able to enjoy the sights and sounds of the local talent. Feedback for the event was excellent! By providing the opportunity for independence, Summer Fun helped participants develop confidence in themselves, allowed volunteers to develop practical skills, and allowed parents to learn about the range of recreational opportunities available in their community. The Summer Fun program is significant because these services are not offered elsewhere in Saskatoon. The program would not be possible without the funding support of Service Canada, Government of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon Community Foundation, the Community Initiatives Fund, and Easter Seals Saskatchewan. Feedback was very well received from the 2013 Summer Fun Program – participants, their families, and caregivers said: “The program is fabulous! <Name> generally loved to go. She enjoys riding the bus to get there. The Coordinators/volunteers are very loving and informative and I feel they genuinely care quite a bit about each participant.” “<Name> loved every outing; all the staff/volunteers were fantastic. I was very impressed with the maturity of the volunteers. The program allowed for an opportunity to socialize with her peers independently from family. The variety of activities was great.” “Summer Fun was the perfect program for <Name>. She has limited social opportunities in the summer (away from family) and this was a great way to get her out of the house. Also a nice break for parents – much appreciated!” “The program is a great opportunity for both child and parents. The child meets others and has a fun time with others with disabilities. The parents get a well deserved break while their child is taken good care of. The children grow independence, gain separation from family and have something that makes them feel special that no one else does. It’s their own little activity. It helps them to become the people that they will grow into. Thank you for running such a wonderful program.”
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With the support of SARC Member Agencies, people with disabilities across Saskatchewan are seeing success from improvements in everyday life, to overcoming adversity, to achieving major milestones—there are many reasons to celebrate and share their inspiring stories. SARC’s annual Celebrate Success Banquet took place on October 16, 2013, and video vignettes of the award recipients are now available on SARC’s website, www.sarcsarcan.ca/pages/celebrate_success, or YouTube, youtube.com/sarcsaskatchewan.
2013 Al McGuire Award Recipients Lifeskills Enhancement – Darwin Styre, Estevan Diversified Services (EDS) Inc., Estevan Through attending the Resource Centre at EDS, Darwin learned important life skills that have truly grown his independence and his interest in everything from current events to pop culture. Darwin has learned to communicate through phone and email, and he is now able to keep in touch with family and friends. Congrats, Darwin!
Transition to Employment – Joel Birtles, Cosmopolitan Industries, Ltd., Saskatoon Joel prides himself on working hard. From working at Cosmopolitan Industries, to transitioning to employment in the community, Joel’s work ethic and dedication is second to none. For the past seven years, Joel has worked at Dad’s Organic Market in Saskatoon, making him their longest serving employee. Great job, Joel; keep up the good work!
Move to Independent Living – Dennis Kuzek, Porcupine Opportunities Program, Inc., Porcupine Plain Dennis has lived on his own for about two years and has since come out of his shell. Dennis has a beautiful home that he keeps immaculate. He enjoys having company over, cooking for himself (on his brand new barbeque), playing the guitar, and everything Saskatchewan Roughriders. Dennis is welcoming, caring, and is thriving in his new home!
Community Involvement – Sarah (Sarenia) Rathje, Saskatchewan Abilities Council, Saskatoon Branch Sarah has had a visual impairment her whole life, but that has never stopped her from achieving amazing things. In her spare time, Sarah raises awareness about visual impairment, volunteers in the community, works at a nursing service, and is a mother to three children. Sarah proves that if you put your mind to it, you can do anything. Congratulations!
2013 Volunteer of Distinction Recipients Cosmo Kiwanis Rhythm Band Volunteer Team, Cosmopolitan Industries, Ltd., Saskatoon For almost 30 years, Cosmopolitan Industries has partnered with the Kiwanis Club of Saskatoon to create an incredible opportunity for people with disabilities: the chance to learn an instrument and play in a band. The band plays at many events like Cosmo functions and Telemiracle. This award recognizes not only the band members and the partnership with Cosmo and Kiwanis, but also the work of the band leaders, conducter Russ Regier, and pianist, Shirley McLellan.
2013 Employer of Excellence Award Recipients Small Business Category - Redvers Early Learning and Child Care Centres, Redvers Redvers Early Learning & Child Care Centres works closely with Redvers Activity Centre to provide meaningful employment to people of all abilities and have seen great success in their efforts. Congratulations!
Medium Business Category - Ambassador Coffee, Regina Ambassador Coffee works with Creative Options Regina (COR) to provide employment to people of all abilities in Regina. Way to go, Ambassador Coffee, for creating a diverse and inclusive workplace!
Large Business Category - Travelodge Hotel, Saskatoon The Travelodge Hotel in Saskatoon has an ongoing relationship with Partners in Employment (through the Saskatchewan Abilities Council) that provides meaningful employment opportunities. Travelodge Associates are rewarded for hard work and achievements through an employee rewards system. Great work!
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The Supported Employment Transition Initiative (SETI) has four returning projects for this fiscal year, including: •
Prairie Branches, Biggar: Helping young people who may face barriers to employment transition directly from high school into a paid community employment situation.
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Saskatchewan Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services, Saskatoon: Funding towards a sign-language fluent job coach.
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Saskatchewan Abilities Council, Regina: Funding towards intensive job coach/maintenance coordinator.
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Multiworks Corporation, Meadow Lake: Funding towards a transition program for participants and high school students into employment.
SETI has five new projects for 2013-14, including: •
Autism Resource Centre, Regina: Funding for an 11-week course which identifies and strengthens skills and abilities in preparation for paid employment in the community.
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Plus Industries, Melfort: Funding towards a coordinator to assist participants and the community at large to obtain and maintain meaningful work in Melfort and surrounding area.
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Canadian Mental Health Association, Swift Current: Funding for a coordinator who assists individuals who have learned applicable skills in the culinary arts field find employment in the community. This program takes the skills that individuals learn in the kitchen while making meals for participants, and helps them transfer those applicable skills into community employment in the food services industry.
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Southwest Homes, Swift Current: Funding towards assisting residents to pursue their employment desires and the development of a Job Club to assist with the overflow of job seekers wishing to become employed.
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Saskatchewan Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services (SDHHS) & Core Neighbourhood Youth Coop (CNYC), Saskatoon: The partnership between these two groups focuses on helping youth with disabilities in developing useful skills while producing responsibly grown food. In a small greenhouse, the group grows tomatoes, kale, spinach, herbs and other plants, mixed in with tanks filled with fish! The water used to sustain the fish is filtered through a series of pipes and beds to nourish the plants. Once the water has been filtered it returns to the fish tanks and the process begins again. This project not only produces food, but it also provides confidence through learning skills and developing abilities. One of the young men who worked in the green house has gone on to apprentice as a plumber; with the skills and confidence he has gained he was able to spread his wings and become independent for the first time. This project is jointly funded by the United Way.
Bravo to all involved! If you would like more information on these projects or supported employment in general, please contact: Joy McKinnon, SETI Coordinator, at jmckinnon@sarcan.sk.ca or call the SARC office at 306-933-0616.
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Recruitment and Retention Update As recruitment and retention has continued to be an ongoing area of focus in this sector, so have been the initiatives moving forward from SARC to help support Members.
Caring Careers Website Since the new Caring Careers website was re-launched on June 26th of this year, the website has been getting increasing traffic and job applications. It has been very effective to have a ‘one-stop shop’ for job seekers looking for employment in this sector. Members can post jobs on Caring Careers by logging into the SARC Members Only website. If you require assistance or would like to find out more about this service, please contact the SARC office. Besides promotion through Career Fairs, there has been buzz through social media, and from the CanSask website. Caring Careers is now a link on the Career Resources list for job postings in specific fields. Check it out online here: http://www.sasknetwork.gov.sk.ca/html/Home/saskjobs/additionalsites.htm#specific
Career Fairs One major way that SARC continues to promote Caring Careers and raise awareness of careers in this sector is by attending career fairs throughout the year. Since February 2013 SARC’s Human Resources Facilitator has partnered with Member Agencies to attend six Career Fairs, hosted by organizations such as Conseil de la Cooperation de la Saskatchewan (CCS), Open Door Society, and Camp Easter Seals. One organization in particular interviewed two candidates and hired both of them as a result of attending the Camp Easter Seals Career Fair. There are a number of career fairs on the calendar for this fall and winter already. We have engaged Members in the past events, and continue to invite agencies to participate and be a part of the event. If you are interested in participating in an upcoming Career Fair, please contact the SARC office for more details. So far there are events in Regina, Saskatoon, and Prince Albert. If you know of any other career fairs in communities across the province, please feel free to pass them along as they might be a good opportunity for SARC to attend on behalf of Membership. We recognize that not everyone has resources to dedicate to attending recruiting events, which is why there is value in SARC promoting the Caring Careers brand and recruitment on behalf of agencies across the province. To ensure you are getting the best exposure, please make sure your job postings are on the Caring Careers website and are accurate and current.
Human Resources Network There has been some initial thought and development into a SARC HR network for individuals working in Human Resources in this sector. With a goal of strengthening the human resources practices and building capacity at the Member Agency level, this would mainly be an opportunity to network, build connections and share resources as they specifically relate to HR best practices in the context of this sector. If you are responsible for Human Resources at your organization, and would be interested in being a part of the HR network, please contact Leanne Zacharias, HR Facilitator, at lzacharias@sarcan.sk.ca or (306) 933-0616.
Templates and Tools New on the SARC Members Only website is a recruitment tool to help streamline the employee application process. The Application for Employment is in the “Human Resources Supports” and “Recruitment and Retention” tabs. Other templates, sample documents, and tools are available by request. SARC’s HR Facilitator is available to support SARC Member Agencies with their recruitment and retention initiatives/questions – please contact Leanne Zacharias, HR Facilitator, at lzacharias@sarcan.sk.ca or (306) 933-0616.
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Since starting in 1968 with eight Members, SARC has grown to over 80 Members with an ever constant goal: Supporting those who provide opportunities to people of all abilities. One of the promotions SARC had to celebrate the 45th anniversary was a 1960s themed Facebook trivia contest. Congratulations to our two winners: Janice Kraus Stoodly and Jayna Klane! Janice and Jayna each won a prize pack with popular toys, games, DVDs, CDs, and candy, all a throwback to the 1960s. SARC also featured a blog series on its website with retrospectives on the history of the disability services sector from guest bloggers that are involved in the sector in different ways; such as front line staff, board members and parents. Thank you to each of our bloggers for your fantastic contributions. SARC 45th Anniversary niversary Celebrations Celebration Since starting in 1968 with eight Members, SARC has grown to over 80 Members with an ever constant goal: supporting those who provide opportunities to people of all abilities.
One of the promotions SARC had to celebrate the 45th Anniversary was a 1960s-themed trivia contest on Facebook. Congratulations to our two winners: Janice Kraus Stoodley and Jayna Klane! Janice and Jayna each won a prize pack with popular toys, games, DVD’s, CD’s and candy from the 1960s! SARC also featured a blog series on its website with retrospectives on the history of the disability services sector from guest bloggers that are involved in the sector in different ways. Thank you to each of our bloggers for your contributions! To commemorate the anniversary at the Fall Conference each attendee received a SARC yo-yo and beverage coaster. Our grand prize winner, Kim Edmunds, received such goodies as a lava lamp, Rock-Em Sock-Em Robots and a complimentary one night stay at the Saskatoon Travelodge Hotel. Congratulations, Kim!
To commemorate the anniversary at the annual Fall Conference, each attendee received a SARC yo-yo and a beverage coaster. Our Grand Prize winner, Kim Edmunds, received such goodies as a lava lamp, Rock-em Sock-em Robots, and a complimentary one-night stay at the Saskatoon Travelodge Hotel. Congratulations, Kim!
Did you know that SARC offers resources, services and training opportunities for Boards of Directors? Board Roles and Responsibilities Workshop A SARC facilitator will guide Board Members through a process aimed at assisting current and new Board Members to better understand and appreciate the roles and responsibilities associated with individual Board positions, various Board committees, and the Board as a governing body. When all Board Members are working together, the organization is more likely to accomplish its goals.
Strategic Planning A SARC facilitator will guide the process of identifying and/or clarifying the organization’s goals and objectives, outlining the action steps and resources needed to achieve these goals, and setting specific measurements to assess when a goal has been accomplished. Think of this process as your agency’s blueprint for change, success, and sustainability for the next few years. For more information please contact Corinne Sonntag at the SARC Office at csonntag@sarcan.sk.ca or (306) 933-0616.
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Basic Skills Training 4.0 The new BST 4.0 manual is now available for BST Tutors. SARC conducted a full review and rewrite of the curriculum based on the many changes in the disability services sector in the last few years. The new tutor manual features a variety of updates, including: • Updated information regarding best practices within the sector • Useful links to reference • Additional interactive learning exercises with the Tutor’s Only section of the SARC website • Additional /expanded content areas (Person-Centred Planning, Employee Wellness, Relationship Building, etc.) • Updated forms and appendices If you would like more information on the Basic Skills Training program, please contact: Mindy Bonderoff or Lisa Malowany at (306) 933-0616, or bstadmin@sarcan.sk.ca. We encourage Agencies to get involved in this great training program to increase the skill set of front-line staff.
SARC Fall Conference 2013 From Concept to Reality... Our Changing Landscape The SARC Fall Conference, held on October 16 & 17, 2013 at the Saskatoon Travelodge Hotel, hosted a variety of professional development and networking opportunities for Managers and Volunteer Boards of Directors in the sector. Conference attendees were taken back in time to 1968, as this year SARC celebrates its 45th Anniversary. Opening the conference with a presentation on trends in the non-profit sector, Shad Ali spoke to an audience of over 90 people on trends in organizations, volunteering, human resources, talent management, technology and collaboration. The presentation provided the latest statistics and a variety of useful information. A concurrent session on Social Media by Taron Cochrane of the Regina advertising agency Look Matters gave insight into how Agencies can use Social Media to their advantage. Taron explained how to seize opportunities in the online community and how to engage audiences. In the other concurrent session on Public Policy Engagement, Peter MacLeod led a very hands-on and practical presentation on how organizations and government can work in collaboration together. Attendees discussed the Disability Strategy consultations that will be happening next year. Thank you to the Disability Strategy Team from the Ministry of Social Services for attending this session. The Celebrate Success annual awards banquet was a wonderful evening. The audience, made up of conference delegates, awards winners and their guests, SARC Board and Staff, Ministry Representatives, and sponsorship representatives, gathered to pay tribute to the award recipients. The day two networking breakfast was sponsored by SARC Bark and included an update on projects the group has been working on. Day two also brought concurrent sessions on Alberta’s Workforce Classification System, led by Jim Des Roches and Jodie Beattie from the Alberta Council of Disability Services, and a second session from Shad Ali on effective Board meetings, where Board Members learned how to conduct more efficient Board Meetings. To close the conference, Michael Clarkson led a session on why we choose to be Leaders. He pointed out effective ways to handle stress and fears. Conference attendees appreciated the uplifting closing session. Thank you to all who attended the SARC Fall Conference this year and celebrated our 45th Anniversary with us! Conference materials (including presentations from the conference) will be listed on our website in November.
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For more information on upcoming Professional Development opportunities, please visit our online Events Calendar at www.sarcsarcan.ca or contact Mindy Bonderoff, SARC’s Facilitator of Training and Education, at mbonderoff@sarcan.sk.ca.
SARC Members Only Intranet SA Did you know that SARC has three online resource areas exclusively for SARC Members?
National CASE Conference
Front Line Resource Area: This area includes: research articles, resources, and links on a number of topics relevant for front-line staff in the disability services sector, including, abuse information; aging and people with disabilities, behavioural supports, bullying in the workplace, common disabilities, communicating and interacting with people with disabilities, employee wellness, inclusion and empowerment, person-centred planning, and relationship building. Management Online Resource Area: This area includes: a policy library with sections on Human Resources, Participant, Operational, Governance, and the OH&S Safety Program Toolkit; a Human Resources area, including recruitment and retention resources as well as a library of HR/LR templates, checklists, and resources; and a Pension and Benefit Plan Administration area. Board Online Resource Area: This area includes: governance policy templates, human resources information and templates relevant for a Board of Directors, information on the SARC Board of Directors and how to contact them regarding presentations to your Board, and more.
the area, or to sign up staff and/or Board Members from your organization, please email Kari Boudreau at the SARC Office at kboudreau@sarcan.sk.ca.
Ba asic Skil ills ls Tra raining (BST ST)) Tra Tr ain th ainhee-Tutor Tu Trai Tr aini ning ng Prro og grram Basic Skills Training (BST) is an in-house training program that is designed to teach Direct Support Professionals the knowledge, skills, and attitudes to promote choices, independence, and quality of life experiences for the people with disabilities that they support.
Basic Skills Training includes customized information for learners in Saskatchewan, to ensure the training is relevant to staff at Community-based Discussion Forums: Each online area has Organizations province-wide. its own discussion forum so that you can connect with your colleagues across The program was brought into the province – post items for sale, invite Saskatchewan in 2000 with BST 3.0, and others to your events, and ask questions later version 3.1 was developed. In early for others to answer – it’s an easy way 2013, an extensive curriculum review to connect and find information! To join was completed which has resulted in the
newest version – BST Version 4.0. How to facilitate the BST program is taught to the Tutors who attend the Tutor Training, which is facilitated by SARC. After the training is completed, the tutors are certified to then teach agency staff the BST program. Upon completion of BST, SIAST grants four course credits to learners in the Disability Support Worker Certificate Program. The annual Tutor Training session will be held on December 3-4, 2013 at the SARC Administration Office in Saskatoon.
Upcoming Up g Trainin ing g Oppo po orttun nittie ies Please watch the Events Calendar, which is available on the SARC Website, www.sarcsarcan.ca/events, for exciting new training opportunities coming in the New Year, including, SARC’s newly developed Management Skills Development Program (MSDP) and exciting new opportunities for FrontLine Staff.
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SARC UPDATE FALL 2013
After many long years of working towards bringing 211 to Saskatchewan, United Way Regina and United Way of Saskatoon and Area launched the 211 Saskatchewan website on September 16, 2013. Citizens of Saskatchewan will be able to access 211 Saskatchewan by visiting www.sk.211.ca and seek out information on over 2,000 organizations and over 5,000 programs and services available to help them throughout the province.
Why 211? Individuals and families looking for help often do not know where to turn, and the maze of phone books, help lines, directories and voicemail may be overwhelming. A single call to 211 or search on the Internet eliminates all this confusion. 211 connects people to information about: • Basic human needs such as housing, food banks, shelters, clothing depots • Services for children, youth and families • Physical and mental health services • Assistance for people with disabilities, seniors and newcomers to Canada • Employment support
Why is 211 Saskatchewan Important? 211 Saskatchewan is currently under development. In Saskatchewan, the 211 service will be available province-wide, providing information and referral to every citizen regardless of location, culture, language or circumstance. Whether one lives in an urban centre, a rural farming community or on a First Nations reserve, 211 will be available. 211 Saskatchewan will join the other provinces as part of 211 Canada providing this important service to its citizens.
How will 211 Saskatchewan Operate? 211 Saskatchewan is currently only available online at www.sk.211.ca. The database has over 2,000 organizations and 5,000 programs and services. Future enhancements include a mobile version of the website which will be implemented in the fall of 2013. United Way continues to seek sustainable funding to implement the 211 telephone service in Saskatchewan. 211 Saskatchewan will adhere to national operational standards and will be equal in quality to similar services across Canada. The vision for 211 across Canada is further being defined and 211 Saskatchewan will follow that vision. 211 Saskatchewan will follow the national model for governance which could involve having an incorporated not-for-profit organization. A board of directors that includes broad representation of service providers and client groups would provide governance for 211 Saskatchewan.
A Note from SARC: SARC was pleased to support 211 Saskatchewan by participating on a committee aimed at populating the website/database. Several months ago, SARC Members may recall receiving communication from the Ministry of Social Services and 211 Saskatchewan encouraging them to submit information on their programs and services to be included in the database. Whether or not you formally responded to that call for information, there may be information on your organization posted in this database, as 211 may have obtained it through other means via the public domain (i.e., your organization’s website). We encourage you to visit www.sk.211.ca and look up your organization to ensure that information posted there is accurate. If you would like to make any changes, please contact 211 Saskatchewan directly, and keep this database in mind if your organization ever makes changes to its available services.
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SARC Partners with Silver Creek Press October 7, 2013, marked the release of Paula J. MacLean’s sixth book, entitled “Following the Leader – Executive Succession for Your Nonprofit”. This new book gives step-by-step guidance for: • • • • • •
Developing emergency and planned departure succession plans Managing the search and selection process Managing the transition of exiting and incoming executive directors Board succession strategies Dealing with the “gnarly bits” such as sudden resignations and terminations Developing strong internal leader development programs to create organizational depth.
For those of you who may not be familiar with Paula, she is the best-selling author of six books and an organizational and human resource consultant, educator, newspaper columnist and conference speaker. Her career has been dedicated to strengthening leadership and discovering better practices within nonprofit, human services and health care organizations. SARC has partnered with her on numerous occasions related to leadership training. Now, SARC is partnering with Paula and Silver Creek Press to make resources available to SARC Members at discounted rates! SARC Members will receive a 15% discount for any book purchases – all you have to do is enter “SARC” as the discount code in the checkout area when ordering online at www.silvercreekpress.ca. Shipping is FREE, and Silver Creek Press ships in 24 hours by expedited mail. All books are available as ebook downloads from the site. Each purchase includes a free downloadable eTool Kit. Visit www.silvercreekpress.ca to order today!
10 Tips for Executive Succession and Transition Tip #1 Identify the four major areas of succession planning to be attended to: emergency succession planning, planned departure succession planning, creating a leader development program and board succession planning. Tip #2 Emergency succession planning and creating a leader development program are operational responsibilities. The responsibility for making these two components a reality rests with senior management. The board of directors may set a policy that requires both plans to exist in writing and provide them to the board for information only. Tip #3 Planned departure and board succession planning are board responsibilities. However, it often falls to the executive director to initiate both activities. Most boards will benefit from assistance from an internal or external facilitator to guide the process of developing the written succession plans. Tip #4 Succession planning is not the same as successor planning! One third of new executive directors come from inside the organization. Planning for succession includes, but is not limited to, the search and selection process. Tip #5 Consult with others inside and outside the organization regarding the most desirable qualifications, competencies and qualities required in a new executive
director. Reflect the advice in a position/candidate profile. Tip #6 Succession plans include transition management strategies that ensure a smooth departure of the exiting executive director and a comprehensive orientation and ongoing support for the incoming executive. Tip #7 Carefully consider the costs and benefits of hiring an executive search firm or consultant to assist the board during the search and selection process. Tip #8 Allow up to one year for creating a comprehensive planned departure succession and transition plan. Allow at least six months from the initial creation of a search and selection committee to the confirmation of a new executive director. Tip #9 Support your exiting executive director to create her or his “second act”. All transitions are out of something familiar and also into something new. This process takes time and may require the support of an executive coach, financial and retirement planners. Tip #10 Consider the benefits of contracting with an experienced interim executive director. This person may help the board with an organizational review, support staff during the transition and assist with the search and selection process.
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New and Exciting Changes to SARC’s Prescription Drug Plan In response to a review of the prescription drug plan and feedback from Plan Members across the province, effective February 1, 2014, there will be changes to the SARC drug plan. Prescription drug coverage is an important part of the SARC benefit plan. In order to continue to provide the best health care benefit package at an affordable price, changes are being made to ensure the plan obtains the best value for the money that is spent on prescription drugs. Highlights/Changes: 1. Add a Pay-Direct Drug Card 2. Change to a Tiered Formulary for drug: Tier 1: National and Special Authorization (NASA) formulary at 100% reimbursement, Tier 2: Plan 84 formulary at 80% reimbursement 3. Add Great-West Life Drug Solutions 4. Enhanced Generic Substitution 5. Health Case Management These changes provide added convenience and allow the benefit plan to continue to offer drug coverage and keep the cost of the benefit plan affordable. Participating employers will be receiving more information soon. For additional information, please contact Great-West Life’s Group Customer Contact Centre at 1-800-957-9777.
SARC Pension Plan Frequently Asked Questions
Government of Canada Pension Questions
Which investments should I pick? Employees are able to seek the advice of a financial advisor or use the Investor Profile Tool on the Cooperators website. If they do not decide, the application can be submitted and the default Balanced Fund will be used. Participants can change investment plans at no charge.
Canada Pension Plan (CPP) • CPP (Starts at Age 60 - 65) • Monthly average at 65 is $596, with a maximum of $1,012 • Reduced by approximately 6.5% year (0.54% per/month) prior to age 65, with annual adjustments for inflation
Do I have to contribute to the pension plan? Yes. Terms of being a participating employer in the SARC plan is that permanent full time and part time employees are required to join after 90 days of service. When can I retire? Normal age of retirement is 65, and the earliest age is 55. It is required to start your pension by the end of age 71. How much retirement income will I get from my pension? It all depends on how much money is in the pension account (years of service, investment growth, etc.). At retirement, the value of the funds in the plan will be used to purchase either a Life Annuity (set amount of income for life) or a Prescribed Registered Retirement Income Fund flexible). For any questions, please contact Kathy Krammer at 1-877-347-6341 extension 607140 or use the calculators available at www.cooperators.ca.
Old Age Security (OAS) • Starts at age 65 until 2023 – then prorated to 67 until 2029 • Monthly average is $515, with a maximum of $549 • Adjusted quarterly for inflation • Clawback starts at $70,954 per year • Contact Service Canada at 1-877-454-4051 to get a CPP Statement
Administering the SARC Pension Plan online saves time and money Over 85% of SARC Participating Employers are remitting their pension information online. It is fast, easy and convenient. Over 75% are utilizing the NDDS (National Direct Deposit Service) to securely make their deposits by phone. Deposit is completed midnight same day. Online remittence is free and saves time and money from the cost of cheques, envelopes postage, etc. For help with NDDS, call Glenn LeDrew at 1-877-347-6341 ext. 607965 or (306) 761-7965 or www.cooperators.ca.
SARC UPDATE FALL 2013
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On October 24, 2013, SARCAN’s Employee Recognition Day honoured almost 90 employees province-wide.
Five Year Awards
20 Year Awards
Back Row (L to R): Gertrude Hingston, Rod Poitras, Craig Miller, Nolan HubbardRichards, Charles Andruga, Danny Lenger, Dwight Larder. Middle Row: Mark Palmer, Nichole Burdon, William Seltzer, John Friesen. Front Row: Christine Perrin, Terry Van Basten, Mark Hanes, Jodi Gordon, Adolf Thomas, Torey Barsi. Not pictured: Lisa Baddiuk, Trever Beresh, Benjamin Campbell, Susan Pritchard.
Back Row (L to R): Jason Mclean, Ron Lafond, Glenn LaClaire, Donald Hildebrandt, Harvey Juraville. Front Row: Mary Bassingthwaite, John Fisher, Naomi Pribyl, Elizabeth Cable, Elsie Perreault. Not pictured: Corey Theriault, Vicki Desautels.
Ten Year Awards
These 14 SARCAN pioneers have been with the organization since 1988!
Back Row (L to R): Sean Homenick, Kris Ewanus,Brent Bozek. Front Row (L to R): Frances Gladue, Sarah Stone, Ashley Derkatch, Lea Schroeder, Dwayne Bloch, David Zasitko. Not pictured: Christopher Gatson, Bernice Knezacek, Brenda Ringel.
15 Year Awards
L to R (back row): Russell Hippert, John McCaw, Kevin Wilcox, Bill Bear, Heather Petko, Ken Symon, Joanne Herbster, Trevor Jones, Kathy Williamson. Front Row: Twyla Litton, Sherry Shrader, Gustave Schindel, Dale Lumbis, Kathy L’Heureux, Wendy Howell. Not Pictured: Dianne Moore.
NEW THIS YEAR - 25 Year Awards
Back Row (L to R): Ross Deptuck, Chris Friebus, Bernie O’Donnell, Jim Shauenberg, Ray Schultz, Roy Whitlock, Rocky Harrison. Front Row (L to R): Kevin Acton, Robert Kryzanowski, Clifford Fazakas, Anita Boyle, Robert Fahlman, Jeff Gonick. Not pictured: Donald Kiwaluic.
Retirees
L to R: Larry Lindal, Ron Wharington. Not pictured: Linda Jarret, Donna McCarthy.
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SARCAN Recycling Celebrates 25th Anniversary During 2013 From Customer Appreciation Days to Planting Trees, SARCAN Recycling Celebrates in Style Throughout the summer of 2013, all sorts of celebrations took place across the province for SARCAN Recycling’s 25th Anniversary. Customer Appreciation Days The summer celebrations kicked off with Customer Appreciation Days all over the province. Each depot hosted a party to say “thank you” to customers in SARCAN Recycling communities. The celebrations featured lots of cakes, barbeques, decorations, prize pack draws, contests, and depot tours. ‘Like’ SARCAN on Facebook to view photos of the Customer Appreciation Days, and much more. Keep up to date with what’s happening at depots throughout the province of Saskatchewan, from La Ronge to Estevan!
Six Billionth Container Recycled
The Nipawin depot staff show off their new orange gloves to match their new orange t-shirts!
At the end of the summer, SARCAN had officially hit the milestone of six billionth containers recycled. What an incredible accomplishment! To celebrate the six billionth, SARCAN did something unique to celebrate: creating a flash-mob style surprise for one lucky and unsuspecting customer! Janice St. Denis, her Jani nice ni ce S t. D enis, of Regina, was bringing en g he er containers SARCAN depot beverage contain iner in e s to the SARCA AN d epo ot on Regina. Rochdale Boulevard iin n Re R gina na. na a SARCAN staffers billionth container slipped d th the e honourary six bi b illl ionth cont tainer returns, when came into her retur urrnss, and u and wh an hen en the ccan a cam an me across counter, massive ensued. the coun nte t r, a m assive e ccelebration elebration e nssued. The n surprise drop, cheerleaders, surp prriise se iincluded nclu nc lude lu d d a balloon dr de d rop o , ch chee erleade de ers r , confetti, streamers, noisemakers co onfetti, streamer rs, noisemake kerrss and more! ke the Cheerleaders posed possed as as customers custome ers in th he depot, so o completely unsuspected. Check the surprise was th a complet as ettel e y un unsuspec cted. d Ch d. C eck SARCAN orr vi visit youtube.com/ outt th tthe e SARC RC RCAN C website o v issiit yo utub tub be. e.co c m/ sarcanrecycling view off ho how sarcan nrecy cycling cy g to v iew the ffull ull video o h ow th the e event was reaction. even nt w wa as executed, and th the incredible e react ct ction.
The seemingly see emingly impr impromptu mpro mpr omptu ce cel celebration ellebr e eb ation of SAR SARCAN’s commemorative six billionth container being recycled depot on Rochdale bei ing g re ecycl ycled ycl ed at the SARCAN d ep t o ep epo nR ochd Boulevard in Regina this summer.
SARC UPDATE FALL 2013
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SARCAN Creates Unique Tree Give-Away Promotion SARCAN Recycling’s 25th anniversary celebrations were kicked into high gear when free Western Red Pine tree saplings were given away at the depots for customers to plant in their backyards, in line with National Forest Week, September 23-27. Working in partnership with the renowned Saskatchewanbased company, Ten Tree Apparel, SARCAN has issued a commemorative 25th anniversary t-shirt to its entire staff across the province. Ten Tree Apparel’s corporate mandate is to plant ten trees for every t-shirt sold. SARCAN and Ten Tree decided to share these very special issued trees with SARCAN customers, to say thank you, for 25 great years of recycling. Giving out trees to the kids of the “Green Team” at Montgomery Elementary School with Amy McNeil, SARCAN Executive Director; the Honourable Ken Cheveldayoff, Minister of Environment; Mr. Bob Woytowich, “Green Team” Teacher; and Kevin Acton, SARCAN Director of Operations.
“We could have planted the trees pretty much anywhere, in another province, or another country, but since SARCAN Recycling is rooted in Saskatchewan, we wanted these trees to be rooted here too, just like our staff, and our customers,” said Amy McNeil, SARCAN’s Executive Director. “Ten Tree is excited to have the opportunity to pursue such a unique partnership with SARCAN, an amazing organization also rooted in Saskatchewan. Both companies are focused on protecting the environment and what better time to celebrate our shared mandate than National Forest Week,” said Derrick Emsley of Ten Tree Apparel. Each of SARCAN’s 71 depots received trees to give away to customers. Those who planted trees were encouraged to take photos and share it with SARCAN on social media. SARCAN’s 25th Anniversary celebrations began in July with Customer Appreciation Days across the province. August saw the countdown to the commemorative six billionth container returned and September featured the tree giveaway blitz. In October, SARCAN’s annual Employee Recognition Day was held, where long term employees were honoured, including the inaugural 25 Years of Service Award for the 14 employees who have been with SARCAN since day one.
Staff at the Saskatoon East SARCAN Depot wear their new SARCAN “Rooted in Saskatchewan” 25th Anniversary Commemorative T-Shirts.
“SARCAN is a household name that is synonymous with recycling in Saskatchewan. Our depots are an established part of communities all over the province,” added McNeil. With 1.8 million customer visits per year, Saskatchewan people understand that it pays to recycle at SARCAN.
Tha anks to th he gen nerositty of our sp ponsors, SARC’s Fall Confe erencce and d Award ds quet,, whicch took place on Octoberr 16-17, 2013, was a gre eatt succcesss! Banq
Platinum Sponsor
Gold Sponsor
Event Sponsor
Delive er this Editio on to: Re eturn n undel eliiv iverrab able le to: SA ARC 1111 Cardina al Cre resscentt Sasskatoon n, SK S77H 6L5 Phone e: (30 06) 933-06116 Em mail:: co onta tacct@s @sarca an. n sk s .ca