Alison Dunn, Job Seeker

Kitchener

I found my way to the CCRW by way of looking for employment after losing my job. I found a job posting for a research position at CCRW and as I was researching the organization it became apparent that perhaps I too could benefit from the resources offered at CCRW. I am a person with multiple disabilities and had never considered looking for help outside of government entities. Trepidatiously, I reached out for help - I could never have imagined the support and compassion I would receive – it was revelatory. My job coach at CCRW, was the robin to my batman. He was my rock, my mentor, my friend. Through funding support and my own diligent work to find employment I received accommodations to see a dietician, I got a brand-new laptop, and I found a job. A pivotal turning point was when I decided to participate in Disabilities Mentorship Day.

New surroundings bring new perspectives. Participating in a meaningful mentorship at Sodexo gave me the invaluable opportunity to be reminded of my value and worth despite having a disability. It was the breath of fresh air I needed.

It is not always easy to navigate the world when there are barriers in place. Sometimes literal, other times systemic. My lived experience with disability shows me that sometimes those barriers become so ingrained that I internalize myths of disability. These myths are rooted in assumptions, that our disabilities prevent us from dreaming or achieving our goals and we are not given the chance to succeed. Sometimes we need a gentle reminder of our worth and value. For me, that came through the opportunity of participating in Disabilities Mentoring Day. To be honest, I wasn’t sure why I was doing it and what I would get out of it but I threw myself into it completely. In the end it was revelatory. I could not have predicted the radical changes it would have on my own perspective of my self. When you have a disability, you are expected to navigate a world that was not built for you. This gives you the ability to think outside the box. There are organizations that will value this trait, who will recognize the invaluable insight someone with disability possesses. This is why when you hire someone with a disability, your revenue will increase. The research shows it. Organizations that recognize this are on the cutting edge. Not only do they strive for equity, diversity, and inclusiveness they make sure it is engrained in their culture, their data, their bottom line. "Nothing about us, without us" actually rings true. For me, the opportunity to visit Sodexo HQ and meet with people who are working tirelessly to build a company that reflects the community it serves was incredible. My ideas were welcomed and my participation encouraged. I felt seen and heard. It reminded me to dream big and that I am so much more than a disability. I am a person of worth and value with insight and lived experience who has so much to offer if given a chance.

I’m grateful to INNoVA and the CCRW for making it possible for employers to be given the opportunity to engage with us directly. It truly is a mutual learning experience that can help both parties overcome ableist myths and that is truly revelatory.