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for example, Terry explains that they come with a strong support network of family, friends and support workers. Sometimes an agency will make the first contact, but often the prospective employee will come in on their own for the interview, and do very well, and land a job offer — “like the girl who applied yesterday.” Terry has passed along the torch for hiring people with barriers to employment to his new manager, who sees job licants from the same opportunity lens. “Many people can really thrive in the business and shouldn’t be overlooked,” Terry noted. The government and agencies provide a lot of support through job coaching, skill development, and the provision of special equipment if needed. Terry uses the example of an employee hired needing special footwear, which was supplied by the agency. Haircuts, clothing for job interviews, and even transportation, may also be available. One of his staff members, described by Terry as “loyal, dedicated and reliable,” says he loves coming to work, as opposed to “sitting at home and doing nothing.” Getting out into the working world is also the best way for social inclusion. At the North Durham Big Brothers Big Sisters Bow]-a-thon for Kids earlier this year, Vos’ Independent Grocer raised $900 and of that amount, $500 was raised by employee Tyler Bjerknes, who had the honour of “pie facing” Scugog Mayor Tom Rowett. Vos’ Independent Grocer has a social committee, which plans all kinds of fun things for the staff, including a recent golf tournament. Terry Vos is a busy individual, who is well-known and appreci te citi: mn on community involvement. He makes time for his important roles, serving on the boards of North Durham Community Living, Rights Board for Durham North and North Durham Big Brothers Big Sisters. Vos’ Independent Grocer was the ideal choice for a recent visit by Dr. Helena Jaczek, Minister of Community and Social Services. Speaking to a small but enthusiastic crowd of onlookers gathered at the local store, she officially announced The Centre of Berallenee for ei ators Services, anew resource ies for people with maton disabilities. In the press release, it states that there are an estimated 65,000 adults with developmental disabilities in Ontario alone. The province is contributing $800,000 to create this new Centre of Excellence for Employment Services. It will provide resources to help local community agencies and employers across the province, create awareness about the benefits of hiring people with developmental disabilities, and build community and employer networks to share best practices. There will be job support available, as well as an investment in people’s talents and skills. Financial support will be offered for projects that promote greater inclusion and independence for people with developmental disabilities. The press release also calls Left, Tyler Bjerknes has been happily going to work for seven years and Sean Alexander for just over three years. Both love their jobs at Vos’! for “creating a dynamic, supportive environment, where business thrives,” plus, providing financial security and aretirement savings plan for the employees. In other words, the Centre for Excellence for Employment Services will do what Vos’ Independent Grocer has been doing all along. By Lynn Campbell, Focus on Scugog Fénee than this. : Step out the kitchen door and harvest your own luscious fruits and vegetables, — still warm from the summer sun. Check out our many ideas and exclusive plants in our President's Choice Summer 2015 Insider’s Report available at FOCUS - JULY2015 19