Employment First – North Eastern Employment Network

CLNorthBay

5 Mar 201803:23

Summary

TLDRThis script celebrates the value of inclusivity in the workplace, focusing on JP, an employee with a disability who has become an integral part of a small town's community. Despite his disability, JP is seen as a reliable and valuable worker who enhances the morale and environment of his workplace. The narrative emphasizes that it's crucial to look beyond disabilities and recognize an individual's capabilities. The script conveys the message that true inclusivity involves treating all employees equally, regardless of their physical conditions, and that disabilities should not be a barrier to performing excellent work.

Takeaways

😀 The employer values employees for their abilities, not their disabilities.
👨‍💼 The employer initially hired JP without considering his disability, focusing on his work ethic.
🌟 JP's presence enhances the morale and working environment at the workplace.
🧼 JP's job involves washing chairs, a task he performs diligently every week.
🔄 JP has been with the company for eight years, demonstrating reliability and commitment.
🤝 The employer and employee have a reciprocal agreement where JP is paid fairly for his work.
💡 JP's positive attitude and love for life inspire those around him at Foodland.
🚫 JP does not internalize the label of disability; instead, he focuses on his capabilities.
🤝 Community Living facilitated JP's employment, showing the importance of support networks.
💼 The employer sees JP's disability as less significant than his ability to contribute effectively.
🌐 True inclusivity involves recognizing an individual's value and needs, regardless of disability.

Q & A

What is the employer's perspective on hiring someone with a disability?
-The employer views hiring someone with a disability not as a limitation but as an opportunity to bring in an employee who can provide a valuable service. They emphasize that they hired an employee, not a person with a disability, highlighting their focus on the individual's abilities rather than their disability.
How does the employer describe the impact of hiring JP on the workplace?
-The employer mentions that JP has been a significant addition to the team, contributing positively to the morale of the workplace and enhancing the overall working environment since his arrival.
What is the significance of having a 'norman' in the town according to the employer?
-The employer believes that having a 'norman' in the town is essential for maintaining a neat and attractive appearance, which is important for the small town's image.
How long has Pat been working for the employer?
-Pat has been working for the employer for eight years, showing consistent dedication and reliability in his role.
What is the nature of the work JP does for the employer?
-JP's job involves washing chairs, a task that he performs every week, contributing to the cleanliness and upkeep of the town.
How does the employer's perspective on disability differ from societal norms?
-The employer does not view disability as a hindrance but rather focuses on the capabilities and contributions of the individual, emphasizing that it's less about the disability and more about what a person can do.
What is JP's attitude towards his disability according to the script?
-JP does not let his disability define him; instead, he embraces life and brings energy and positivity to those around him, focusing on his abilities and responsibilities.
How did JP initially get connected to the job at Foodland?
-JP started working at Foodland through a co-op program, which eventually led to his current job.
What is the role of community living in JP's employment?
-Community living played a crucial role in connecting JP with the employer by identifying a suitable position for him and facilitating his employment.
How does the employer define true inclusivity in the workplace?
-The employer defines true inclusivity as valuing an individual's contributions and needs without being overshadowed by any disability, treating them the same as any other employee.
What message does the script convey about the capabilities of people with disabilities?
-The script conveys that people with disabilities are capable and should not be underestimated. It emphasizes that a disability should not be a barrier to performing a job well or participating fully in the community.

Outlines

00:00

👨‍💼 Valuing Abilities Over Disabilities

This paragraph tells the story of JP, an employee with a disability who has become a valued member of the team at Foodland. The employer emphasizes that they hired JP for his capabilities, not despite his disability. The narrative highlights the importance of inclusivity in the workplace, where JP's contribution to the team's morale and the quality of work is recognized. His dedication and positive attitude have been a significant asset to the company for the past eight years. The employer also mentions the role of community living in facilitating JP's employment, showing that with the right support, people with disabilities can excel in their roles.

Mindmap

Keywords

💡Disability

Disability refers to a physical or mental condition that limits a person's movements, senses, or activities. In the video, it is highlighted that having a disability does not impede an individual's ability to be a valuable employee. The video emphasizes the importance of recognizing the capabilities of people with disabilities, as seen with JP, who has been working for eight years and contributes significantly to the workplace morale.

💡Valued Employee

A valued employee is someone who is recognized for their contributions and is considered an asset to the organization. The script mentions JP as one of the most valued employees, indicating that his work ethic and positive attitude are appreciated, despite any preconceived notions about his disability. This term is central to the video's message of inclusivity and the recognition of the worth of every employee.

💡Inclusivity

Inclusivity is the practice of including people who might otherwise be excluded or marginalized, ensuring that everyone has equal access to opportunities and resources. The video promotes the idea that inclusivity in the workplace means hiring individuals based on their abilities, not disabilities, as exemplified by JP's employment and the positive impact he has on his team.

💡Morale

Morale refers to the精神状态 or enthusiasm of a group of people, often influenced by their working conditions and relationships. In the video, it is mentioned that JP's presence has improved the morale of the workplace, suggesting that his positive attitude and contributions have a beneficial effect on the overall atmosphere and team spirit.

💡Capability

Capability denotes the ability or power to do something effectively. The video script underscores the importance of focusing on a person's capabilities rather than disabilities, as seen in the statement 'it's definitely less about a disability, more about what a person is able to do.' This concept is key to the video's advocacy for equal opportunities and the dismissal of limiting labels.

💡Community Living

Community living refers to a residential arrangement where individuals with disabilities live in a community setting, often with support services. The video mentions that JP was introduced through community living, which helped facilitate his employment. This highlights the role of such services in integrating individuals with disabilities into the workforce and community.

💡Co-op

Co-op stands for cooperative education, a program where students alternate between classroom study and work in their field of study. The script mentions that JP started working through a co-op program, which eventually led to his current job. This illustrates how co-op programs can serve as a bridge for individuals with disabilities to enter the workforce.

💡Initiative

An initiative is a plan or action intended to resolve a difficulty or improve a situation. In the video, the initiative taken by the community living service to find a job for JP is highlighted, showcasing how proactive measures can create opportunities for individuals with disabilities.

💡Label

A label is a term or designation applied to someone or something, often simplifying or categorizing them. The video script discusses how JP does not let the label of 'disability' define him, emphasizing the importance of looking beyond labels to recognize a person's true potential and contributions.

💡Job Satisfaction

Job satisfaction is the contentment and fulfillment one derives from their work. The video includes a statement from JP expressing his gladness in being able to do his job well, indicating that despite his disability, he finds satisfaction and purpose in his work, which is a key aspect of his quality of life.

💡Stigma

Stigma refers to a mark of disgrace associated with a particular circumstance, quality, or person. The video script touches on the idea that individuals with disabilities often face stigma, but the narrative counters this by showing JP's successful integration into the workforce and his contributions, challenging the stigma and promoting a more inclusive perspective.

Highlights

Disability doesn't hinder an individual's value as an employee.

The employer initially hired an employee without focusing on their disability.

JP was hired as an employee, not defined by his disability.

Employers value reliability and the ability to provide necessary services.

Maintaining a neat and tidy town is crucial, and Pat contributes to that.

Pat has been working for eight years, demonstrating consistency and dedication.

Paul enhances the workplace morale and has transformed the working environment.

The employer provides opportunities based on an individual's abilities, not disabilities.

JP's positive attitude and love for life inspire those around him.

JP doesn't let his disability define him; he focuses on his capabilities.

Community Living played a role in connecting JP with employment opportunities.

Chantal from Community Living helped JP find a job that suits his abilities.

JP feels good about his job and takes pride in doing it well.

The employer sees Norman as capable and not limited by his disability.

Inclusivity is about recognizing an individual's abilities and contributions.

Disabilities should not be a barrier to employment or community participation.

True inclusivity means valuing an individual's skills and contributions without disability bias.

Employers should not overlook an individual's abilities due to a disability.

JP's story shows that having a disability doesn't prevent one from doing a great job.