Part 5

For two hours every other week Emerson and John Nater share an office, and in those two hours Emerson's positive energy sweeps through the office leaving everyone in a better mood. You can see the bond that has developed between the two from the moment you enter the office.

For Emerson, who doesn't enjoy spending his days stuck at home, coming to work is one of the highlights of his week. Emerson has been working with John, the local Member of Parliament for Perth-Wellington, for 13 years and has dedicated his time to other MPs and MPPs for the past 20 years. Emerson finds his work very satisfying and being employed allows him to do what he loves most—spending time at the cottage in Grand Bend. Emerson loves to spend his days off at Grand Bend walking the strip and lounging on the beach while watching all the pretty ladies.

John would absolutely recommend becoming an inclusive employer to all; it allows the office to work smoothly and builds relationships with great people in the community. John is always extremely impressed with Emerson’s work ethic; always working to the best of his abilities. The advice John has for future inclusive employers is "Just do it! Open up your office, be open to new relationships, because it is a great experience on both sides!”.

If you have been inspired by Emerson’s story contact us at 519-273-1000 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .

Part 4

Meet Kevin, over 9 years ago he was looking for a challenge and a way to contribute to his community, and found that opportunity with Boston Pizza Stratford. Boston Pizza Stratford has provided Kevin with that challenge he was looking for and the two have been working happily together ever since! Kevin has been given many important responsibilities while working at Boston Pizza Stratford, including washing dishes, and vacuuming the dining room floor. Kevin loves working but he says the best part of his job is meeting new people and working with his friendly coworkers.

Lisa, Kevin’s supervisor, says her experience working with Kevin, and other individuals with developmental disabilities, has been amazing and recommends becoming an inclusive employer! Lisa brags about Kevin’s strict work ethic and his respectful laid back attitude all the time. Lisa encourages all employers to become inclusive, saying “Don’t hesitate to give [those with developmental disabilities] a chance, they are there to work same as anybody else”.

If you are interested in becoming an inclusive employer contact us at 519-273-1000 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .

Part 3

Meet Brian, he is retired but was looking for something to do with all his free time. Thankfully, Stratford Printing and Graphics, who has been an inclusive employer for 7 years, took Brian on as a volunteer. Brian spends his time at Stratford Printing and Graphics shredding paper and setting up the printing press, whereby he initiates a complicated set of buttons to make that monster roar. Brian also enjoys spoiling Niko the dog, and loves spending time with Lucy (his favourite) and everyone at Stratford Printing and Graphics!

Dave, Brian’s supervisor, says that working with Brian makes his day and would recommend, 150%, being an inclusive employer. Dave’s experience in working with individuals with developmental disabilities has shown him that they are more than willing and able to work, they actually want to work! They want to be part of the community, part of everything going on, and contribute. Dave would encourage everyone to be an inclusive employer, he says it’s easy; when they always have a big smile on their face, it’s really gratifying!

If you are interested in becoming an inclusive employer contact us at 519-273-1000 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .Dave, Brian’s supervisor, says that working with Brian makes his day and would recommend, 150%, being an inclusive employer. Dave’s experience in working with individuals with developmental disabilities has shown him that they are more than willing and able to work, they actually want to work! They want to be part of the community, part of everything going on, and contribute. Dave would encourage everyone to be an inclusive employer, he says it’s easy; when they always have a big smile on their face, it’s really gratifying!

If you are interested in becoming an inclusive employer contact us at 519-273-1000 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .

Dave, Brian’s supervisor, says that working with Brian makes his day and would recommend, 150%, being an inclusive employer. Dave’s experience in working with individuals with developmental disabilities has shown him that they are more than willing and able to work, they actually want to work! They want to be part of the community, part of everything going on, and contribute. Dave would encourage everyone to be an inclusive employer, he says it’s easy; when they always have a big smile on their face, it’s really gratifying!

Part 2 

Being an inclusive employer!

While you may think that you do not have an appropriate job for someone with a developmental disability, you are wrong! You may be surprised to find out the many ways that these individuals can help out in your workplace. Sometimes we might have to think outside the box but there are many cost-free alternations which can be done to make your workplace more accessible.

Part 1

True or False? Those with a developmental disability cannot work.

False!!