Colette Lacroix's Story

Employment in the mainstream labour market can enhance the independence and participation of people with disabilities. While people with disabilities have made progress in moving from sheltered employment to community-based employment, continued efforts are needed to support this growth. The benefits of doing so are clearly articulated by those who have witnessed the changes that have taken place in Colette Lacroix's life over recent years.

Diagnosed with a developmental disability, Colette attended a segregated high school classroom and, upon reaching adulthood, worked at a sheltered workshop. After thirteen years at the workshop, Colette's social worker, believing that she was capable of full employment with a community employer, worked with Colette and her family to obtain supported employment services. A local employment agency for people with disabilities, Network South Enterprises Inc., was introduced to Colette and helped her get involved in a range of work experiences to assess her abilities and provide her with exposure to competitive employment.

For the past eight years, Colette has been employed as a clerk in the Communications Department of the University of Manitoba. Network South Enterprises provided assistance during her transition period, including employer support and on-the-job coaching. Colette earns a competitive salary, including benefits.

Mona Lacroix, Colette's sister, is quick to point out that along with the excellent array of employment services such as those offered by Network South Enterprises, family must play an active role in supporting a person with a disability to maximize their potential.

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