Community Living Greater Sudbury's employment program transforms lives by connecting adults with developmental disabilities to meaningful work opportunities. While these individuals bring dedication, reliability, and unique perspectives to the workplace, many employers remain unaware of the significant benefits inclusive hiring brings to their bottom line.
Preparing for Success: The Employment Program
Community Living Greater Sudbury prepares individuals for long-term employment success. The full program includes job skills training, workplace social skills development, and ongoing support that ensures both employee and employer thrive.
The program consists of 12 modules that touch upon all aspects of getting and keeping a job. "We help develop resumes, provide interview skills, and help develop strong work ethics based on accountability and responsibility," explains James Tregonning, Senior Manager of Inclusion and Client Driven Services at Community Living Greater Sudbury.
Caseworkers work alongside supported employees during their initial employment period, ensuring smooth transitions and addressing any challenges immediately. This support gradually decreases as individuals gain confidence and independence, though the organization remains available whenever needed.
The Untapped Talent Pool
Employers searching for reliable, dedicated workers often overlook people with disabilities, a mistake that costs them access to exceptional talent. Adults with developmental disabilities consistently demonstrate lower turnover rates, higher job retention, and superior attendance records compared to typical employees.
Many workplaces have found that employees with disabilities or those receiving employment supports contribute to driving innovation, efficiency and stronger team culture. For example, a supported employee with a strong sense of empathy and routine worked at a local coffee shop and began greeting customers by name, tracking preferences in a small notebook. The impact of this informal "loyalty system" inspired the coffee shop to create a digital version which in turn boosted repeat customer rates and increased revenue. Another example would be an employee with developmental disabilities at a hotel who began organizing "kindness boards" as a weekly recognition for coworkers. The impact of the gesture raised staff morale and engagement, which in turn reduced turnover and absenteeism.
The Business Case for Inclusion
Enhanced Productivity and Morale
Research consistently shows inclusive workplaces report higher overall productivity. Team morale improves significantly when businesses employ people with disabilities, with coworkers reporting increased job satisfaction, stronger teamwork, and greater company loyalty.
"At Community Living Greater Sudbury, inclusive hiring has strengthened our workplace culture in ways we couldn't have imagined. When people of all abilities work together, we see more empathy, creativity, and collaboration. Every new voice adds value and together, we're building a community where everyone truly belongs," shares Tregonning.
Financial Incentives and Support
Multiple funding streams make inclusive hiring financially advantageous for Greater Sudbury employers. Federal programs include the Opportunities Fund for Persons with Disabilities (offering wage subsidies and training supports) and the Ready, Willing & Able module for hiring people with intellectual disabilities or autism. Provincial supports include Employment Ontario wage subsidies, the Canada-Ontario Job Grant for training costs, Better Jobs Ontario funding, and the Enabling Accessibility Fund for physical improvements.
Community Living Greater Sudbury helps employers navigate these programs, ensuring maximum benefit while minimizing paperwork and administrative burden.
Customer Loyalty and Market Access
People with disabilities represent billions in annual spending power in Canada, with their families and support networks multiplying this influence. Businesses demonstrating genuine commitment to inclusion earn fierce loyalty from this market segment.
"Inclusion isn't just good ethics; it's good economics. The disability community supports brands that see their value and stand with them. People with disabilities and their families are among the most loyal customers any business can have. When you include everyone, everyone wins."
Addressing Common Concerns
Many employers hesitate due to misconceptions about accommodation costs or productivity concerns. The reality is that most workplace accommodations cost nothing, involving simple schedule adjustments or task modifications. When accommodations do require investment, the average cost remains under $500, often covered by available grants.
"Community Living Greater Sudbury helps reduce employer risks and burdens by taking on much of the coordination, such as employee support and job coaching," explains Tregonning. "We propose incremental changes to pilot periods to limit upfront costs. We also connect employers with funding agencies to offset costs where possible, and we manage communications that might otherwise be awkward for the employer."
Caseworkers help identify necessary accommodations and often discover that supported employees need fewer modifications than anticipated. The organization remains involved in troubleshooting challenges, ensuring employers never feel alone in the inclusion journey.
Building Stronger Communities
Inclusive employment strengthens Greater Sudbury's entire economic ecosystem. When adults with disabilities earn paychecks, they spend money locally, contributing to economic growth. They pay taxes, reducing reliance on social support systems. Most importantly, they become visible, valued community members, breaking down stereotypes and building understanding.
Get Started Today
Businesses interested in inclusive hiring can contact Community Living Greater Sudbury's Employment Program at (705) 671-7181 or visit CommunityLivingGreaterSudbury.ca to learn how inclusive hiring can transform their operations.
The organization's team guides employers through the process, addresses concerns, and matches them with motivated employees ready to contribute to their success.
Thank you to Ashley for donating this Spotlight in support of Community Living Greater Sudbury.