Summer Employment Means More than a Resume; it’s About Gaining Life Experience

One of the best ways to gain life experience – both professionally and personally – is by working. In fact, a job provides experience that extends well beyond the skills learned in a workplace.

“Summer employment is a great setting to experience life for both youth and adults,” says Sergio Iacoe, Manager of Inclusion, Community Living Algoma. “It is a way to feel good about yourself, flourish and meet new people.”

For 34 youth and young adults with developmental challenges, this is the summer of new experiences and relationships. All are working for 16 area employers who embrace operating an inclusive workplace. Each student is matched with a Job Coach who provides support and mentorship. Two Job Coordinators oversee the program which operates through the EMPLOYMENT network, a division of CLA. Two ‘floaters’ provide additional back-up, where required. Overall, it means summer employment for 34 people.

“Inclusive hiring means that the goal of helping everyone feel welcomed, valued and respected in the workplace is achieved,” says Sergio. In addition to task-specific skills, all summer students also learn about time management, communication, goal-setting and social interactions that may lead to future job contacts and friendships.

Positions include everything from yard maintenance, housekeeping, kitchen service, customer service to office tasks. Students are employed in both the private and public sectors.

Each Wednesday, throughout July and August, the EMPLOYMENT network features a social media post, on Facebook and Instagram, where a summer student and their coach are introduced. It also highlights the employer in recognition and appreciation of their inclusive hiring practices.

Participating inclusive employers are: Microtel, Super 8, Team Essentials, Property One, Cintas, Crimson Ridge, City of Sault Ste. Marie, Kinsmen Club, Woody’s RV, SAH, HSCDSB, ADSB, Sylvan Valley Enterprises, Thessalon First Nation, IJE’s Place and Community Living Algoma.

Here's what people are saying:

Employer testimonials:

“The employment program allowed us to take up more work than we normally can do during the summer months.” 

City of Sault Ste. Marie

“We have never run so efficiently with so little manpower. Our members have noticed and were happy we are an inclusive employer.” 

Crimson Ridge

“One thing that has come out of this program is the effective communication skills from the workers on-site and the pro-activeness for them to take the initiative on things I may not have requested them to do…They are great!”

Anthony, Property One Management

“I’ve spent time with the mentors and the students. I think they’re fantastic people. This isn’t the easiest environment to work in; it builds character… I hope more employers experience having a placement through CLA.”

John, Greenwood Cemetery

“It’s a good opportunity for employers because you’re giving students the chance to grow and learn in the workplace.”

Cindy, Microtel Inn & Suites

Students share their summer goals:

 “A goal of mine, this summer, is to be more confident at work.”

Ava S., CLA Welcome Centre.

“I’m most looking forward to hanging out with my friends at work this summer.”

Danny, Greenwood Cemetery

Insight from a Job Coach:

“My goal while working at CLA this summer is to build a closer bond with my students…To me, inclusive employment is fair job opportunities for everyone.”

Talia, Greenwood Cemetery

Insight from a Job Coordinator:

 “I think this program is so important for our community. It creates positive student work experiences, promotes inclusivity at local workplaces within the hiring process and day-to-day operations, and allows job coaches to play a vital role in the growth of others.”

Ava, Employment Coordinator