Revelstoke Business Leaders Advocate for Inclusive Workplaces

Revelstoke’s WorkBC Centre hosted an event on October 2, 2023, aimed at promoting inclusivity in local businesses by highlighting the importance of hiring individuals with disabilities. The gathering, held at the Coast Hillcrest Hotel, coincided with National Disability Employment Awareness Month and featured discussions on how various job sectors can accommodate employees with diverse needs.

One of the key speakers, Sheldon Kitzul, a MentorAbility coordinator for Inclusion BC, referenced 2022 data from Statistics Canada indicating that 29 percent of individuals over the age of 15 in British Columbia live with a disability. Kitzul emphasized that the ability of employers to support this demographic often hinges on their education and training related to inclusive hiring practices. “There’s work all governments, including local governments, have to do to ensure these people are included in our workforce,” he stated. Kitzul also highlighted the significance of initiatives aimed at supporting entrepreneurs with disabilities and providing training allowances to facilitate hiring.

Programs like MentorAbility, administered by Inclusion BC, have successfully connected numerous job seekers with disabilities to mentorship and employment support. Kitzul noted that over 90 percent of employers who participated in MentorAbility felt better equipped to create empathetic workplaces and demonstrate effective leadership in inclusivity.

The event included a panel discussion featuring five local employers who shared their experiences working with staff with diverse needs. Greg Rose, the owner of Roxy Theatre, spoke about the positive impact of employing Xander, who has been with the cinema for three years. Rose described Xander as someone who “kind of runs the show there for me,” indicating the value of adaptability in accommodating employees with disabilities.

At the Coast Hillcrest Hotel, Chelsea Hughes shared how the establishment has successfully integrated staff with disabilities. She recounted how one front desk employee, who excelled at using Excel spreadsheets, simply needed a specially designed chair to thrive in their role. Hughes remarked, “It was great to see them develop and not need our help,” illustrating the benefits of fostering an inclusive work environment.

From the Washateria, owner Brittany Bednarz noted that hiring staff with disabilities has been “pretty straightforward.” She emphasized that providing a little extra patience and time can significantly enhance workplace inclusivity. Bednarz encouraged other employers to join the movement, stating, “It can’t just be on the small businesses to do this.”

The general manager of Revelstoke’s Home Hardware, Sarah Deschamps, echoed similar sentiments, describing the rewarding nature of hiring individuals with disabilities. “It teaches us tolerance, as well as patience,” she added, referring to two employees who have become vital contributors to the store’s operations.

Inclusivity is particularly crucial for Nicholas Irving, a field superintendent for Parks Canada, who shared his personal experiences growing up legally deaf. He acknowledged that individuals from marginalized groups may face additional challenges related to disability. “Some of Parks Canada’s very best employees are people who’ve lived with disabilities,” Irving stated, prompting a discussion on how to better elevate these individuals within the workplace.

Local disability advocate Chris Miller, who works for both Parks Canada and School District 19, highlighted the importance of accessible facilities, especially in a town with an aging infrastructure. Miller described his dual role as a campground information host and elementary school education assistant, noting that while he sometimes requires assistance to get to work, he also commutes independently on certain days. “I’m very fortunate that both my employers are very inclusive,” he remarked, emphasizing that he is treated like anyone else rather than receiving special treatment.

To further support workplace inclusivity, the federal government offers a Workplace Accessibility Passport, ensuring that public service employees have access to necessary tools and resources. In addition, WorkBC provides employers with a variety of assistive technologies and accessibility services aimed at accommodating their staff.

On October 16, 2023, Pacific Coast Community Resources will organize a light-up event to celebrate workplace inclusion as part of National Disability Employment Awareness Month. Revelstoke participants are encouraged to wear purple and blue or decorate their businesses with these colors to demonstrate their support for inclusivity in the workforce.

As the conversation around employment for individuals with disabilities continues, events like the one held by WorkBC serve as crucial platforms for fostering understanding and commitment among local businesses.