Back in Motion Celebrates B.C. Disability Employment Month

RICHMOND, BRITISH COLUMBIA--(Marketwired - Sept. 29, 2014) - Back in Motion Rehab Inc. (Back in Motion) celebrates the first B.C. Disability Employment Month. This month, proclaimed by the B.C. government, is intended "to celebrate people with disabilities in the workforce and the employers and communities throughout the province who pave the way to support them."

Avia Employment Services (Avia), a division of Back in Motion, launched a campaign to celebrate this month with a series of activities online, in our Employment Services Centres and in the community.

• We welcomed a visit from B.C. Minister of Social Development and Social Innovation, Don McRae, at Avia's Richmond Employment Centre on September 9^th. Minister McRae toured the Avia facility and recognized employers and Avia celebrating the first Disability Employment Month in B.C.
• Staff participated in the Vancouver Walk Now for Autism Speaks Canada on September 28^th, and Avia representatives hosted a booth at the Walk's resource fair.
• We raised awareness on Social Media through Facebook and Twitter

Avia supports persons with disabilities find and retain community attachments and meaningful employment. We offer clients with disabilities tailored support to help them with their employment goals. Supports for eligible clients can include accessible facilities, Customized Employment, WorkAbilities workshops, unpaid work experience, and financial supports.

Avia's services, such as hiring fairs, employer forums, job-matching, and job-postings, also support the hiring needs of employers. Through opportunities such as wage subsidies and customized employment, Avia assists employers to hire and train persons with disabilities, supporting both client and employer throughout the process, from financial supports to on-the-job coaching.

As part of our September campaign, we have been featuring the success of our employment services for persons with disabilities.

Mitchell, a client with a disability, found success when Avia Job Developer, Janice Huber, helped him find employment at the YMCA Surrey. "He seemed like a great guy to get to know, and that's one of the reasons we decided to bring him on board," says his trainer. "People are inspired by him… he is a prime example of being able to overcome almost anything." Mitchell's story was featured in a video collaboration between the YMCA and BCIT.

Recent success for the employer, Kultarjit (president of the Grand Taj Banquet Hall), came through the Back in Motion Customized Employment program. Characterizing his experience with hiring a customized client, Kultarjit says, "Wonderful! The on-site help and the [Employment Specialist's] interaction with the individual was very helpful."

About Avia Employment Services:

Avia Employment Services is a provincially-funded employment services program, and part of the B.C. government's WorkBC initiative. Comprised of a network of Service Providers, who are committed to providing innovative employment solutions to all job seekers, Avia offers employment advice, specialized services and the support you need to find a meaningful and rewarding job. Need a job or need to hire? Learn more about our client and employer services.

About Back in Motion:

Back in Motion Rehab Inc. (Back in Motion) is known for our creative solutions and exceptional results. Delivering comprehensive treatment programs and assessments for injured workers, and providing integrated employment services for all BC job seekers, Back in Motion is dedicated to ensuring that the needs of our clients are met and their expectations exceeded.

Click here to learn more about our employment services!