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Opportunities Fund For Persons with Disabilities

Welcome

Steven at Our Community Bikes bike shopSteven's Story

I was born in Quebec. At the age of 6 I was in a car accident that left me paraplegic. I lived in Montreal before I moved to Vancouver in 2004. I wanted to move to enjoy the mild Vancouver winters but also for work opportunities. I only completed grade 5 in Quebec but since I've been in Vancouver I've taken some computer training in hardware maintenance. I like to work with my hands, but being in a wheelchair can limit what I'm able to do.

I accessed the Opportunities Fund program through a community case manager when I was looking for work. Using a wage subsidy, I was able to get training as a bike mechanic. Some minor workplace accommodations were made for me in the workshop (lowering my work bench, tools and bike parts). I was hired at the end of training as a regular employee.

The Opportunity Fund wage subsidy program helps the employee with a disability to be integrated into the work area and enables employers to provide necessary accommodations.
Opportunities Fund For Persons with Disabilities

SUCCESS STORIES

Steven at Our Community Bikes bike shopSteven's Story

I was born in Quebec. At the age of 6 I was in a car accident that left me paraplegic. I lived in Montreal before I moved to Vancouver in 2004. I wanted to move to enjoy the mild Vancouver winters but also for work opportunities. I only completed grade 5 in Quebec but since I've been in Vancouver I've taken some computer training in hardware maintenance. I like to work with my hands, but being in a wheelchair can limit what I'm able to do.

I accessed the Opportunities Fund program through a community case manager when I was looking for work. Using a wage subsidy, I was able to get training as a bike mechanic. Some minor workplace accommodations were made for me in the workshop (lowering my work bench, tools and bike parts). I was hired at the end of training as a regular employee.

The Opportunity Fund wage subsidy program helps the employee with a disability to be integrated into the work area and enables employers to provide necessary accommodations.


Opportunities Fund
For Persons with Disabilities
Web: www.oppsfund.ca

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