Jess, Job Seeker

St. John’s, NL

This digital painting I made is called "the colors of growth". It symbolizes the growth during this program with CCRW. We began as people who just wanted to belong, to know how to get a job and just be treated fairly. We came in not knowing much about the rights that we actually have in a workplace. As you can see, the first half of the painting is in gray, and then moves into color. This and also the butterflies represent transformation, new beginnings and hope. I am very hopeful for our futures. First off I would like to thank the CCRW, Sara, Mitch, and Linda for believing in all of us and helping pave the way into the new chapter in our lives. I started off this program, not really knowing who I was or where I belonged. This program showed me what I deserve, not just as someone with a disability, but as a person. I have learned so much, I have grown. One of my main takeaways is that I got answers. I was able to get evaluations done that I would have never have been able to get on my own, I jumped past waitlists for psychiatrists, massage and physio. I made friends. I experienced belonging, inclusion, understanding and validation. I was shown that I can do anything I put my mind to. I can do this and with this program, anyone can do this. There ARE places that are accommodating, and there ARE people who care, you just have to put some work in and you can get the help you need and see the results. This program has improved my life for the better and I wish everyone could experience it. This digital painting I made is called "the colors of growth". It symbolizes the growth during this program with the CCRW. We began as people who just wanted to belong, to know how to get a job and just be treated fairly. We came in not knowing much about the rights that we actually have in a workplace. As you can see, the first half of the painting is in gray, and then moves into color. This and also the butterflies represent transformation, new beginnings and hope. I am very hopeful for our futures. We've got this! Thank you.