Inclusion NB’s new outreach programming will encourage employers to hire persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities

June 26, 2024 · Fredericton, New Brunswick · Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)

Atlantic Canada’s greatest resource is its people. Businesses and organizations benefit from having a diverse and inclusive workforce where all Canadians, including persons with disabilities, get the opportunity to put their talents to use and reach their full potential.

Today, Jenica Atwin, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Indigenous Services and Member of Parliament for Fredericton, announced $231,479 through ACOA’s Regional Economic Growth through Innovation (REGI) program for Inclusion NB. The announcement was made on behalf of the Honourable Gudie Hutchings, Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA.

The Honourable Bill Hogan, Minister of Education and Early Childhood Development (EECD) also announced a contribution of $75,000 on behalf of the Province of New Brunswick.

This investment will support a province-wide campaign that will focus on engaging employers and promoting inclusive employment opportunities for individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities. Through a blend of outreach and engagement activities, the development of supporting materials and the launch of an Online Employment Hub, Inclusion NB will educate employers on the benefits of hiring neurodiverse individuals as valued and productive employees.

Today’s announcement further demonstrates the Government of Canada’s commitment to helping all Canadians access the necessary resources to overcome barriers to employment and gain valuable work skills and experience to be ready for the jobs of today and tomorrow.

Quotes

“Through ACOA, your federal government is supporting great organizations like Inclusion NB that are creating barrier-free environments, and building fair, inclusive workforces. When we make our workplaces more accessible, that’s a win for everyone.”

– The Honourable Gudie Hutchings, Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA

 

“For far too long, persons living with disabilities in our province have been disproportionately excluded from employment opportunities. By working together, we can pave the way for an accessible workforce that empowers persons living with disabilities to succeed. I am so happy

that the Government of Canada, through ACOA, is supporting Inclusion NB’s workforce initiative and I encourage employers to learn more about the support and resources available for creating a more diverse and inclusive economy.”

– Jenica Atwin, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Indigenous Services, and Member of Parliament for Fredericton

 

“Individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities have the right to make decisions based on their wishes and preferences. Ensuring that everyone has the support they need to make informed decisions is fundamental to a successful transition to life after high school and this is why this course is important. The Inclusive Communities Institute embodies our commitment to fostering an inclusive environment for all. We are pleased to have supported Inclusion NB, and experts in the field, to create a course for this online learning platform that is not only educational, but transformative.”

– The Honourable Bill Hogan, Minister of Education and Early Childhood Development

 

“Inclusion NB’s mission is to empower New Brunswickers to see what true inclusion can look like and to build the capacity to make it a reality. Together with our partners, we will create and grow a community where employers can connect to better understand the benefits of fostering a more diverse and inclusive workplace. This will include using our online platform, the Inclusive Communities Institute, facilitating face-to face gatherings and sharing inclusive employment best practices and success stories.”

– Jake Reid, Executive Director, Inclusion NB

 

Quick Facts

  • Since 1957, Inclusion NB’s purpose has been to empower New Brunswickers with intellectual disabilities and their families.
  • The Inclusive Communities Institute (ICI) also received additional financial support of $80,624 from Inclusion Canada via its Ready Willing and Able (RWA) project. RWA is a federally funded national employment project delivered by Inclusion Canada in partnership with the Autism Alliance of Canada (AAC).
  • Funding for this project is provided through the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency’s Regional Economic Growth through Innovation (REGI) program, which supports projects that promote sustainable community economic development, enhance business development and growth, and facilitate innovation.