Summary: Five District 5050 (Chilliwack, Mission, Delta, Langley, Tri-Cities) inclusive employer community events focusing on employment for people with disabilities as a poverty reduction strategy.
80% of people with disabilities in Canada are unemployed or underemployed and yet every person has skills and abilities that can be utilized to fill needs in businesses. When people with disabilities are actively contributing in their communities through employment, there is a reduction in poverty and increase in social connections. We know that Rotarians or Friends of Rotarians have played an active role in hiring people with disabilities and we would like to formally recognize these employers, raise awareness and educate the public that hiring people with disabilities is a benefit to business. These events will take place in the month of October 2020 during Community Living month and all local businesses (future Rotarians) will be invited. Through education and awareness, stigma is reduced and doors for employment are opened; these events will provide that opportunity. We will connect employers with Rotary at Work (www.rotaryatworkbc.com), to find the right job seeker with a disability to fill their business needs.
The funds will be used to host the five events including venue, food, awards and media exposure. Club members who have hired or mentored people with disabilities will be guest speakers and will participate in event planning.