Centred Content
Research reports that youth with developmental disabilities have one of the highest rates of unemployment, and employment opportunities are limited. Matthew, a neuro-diverse job seeker with a passion for visual arts and graphic design, was experiencing this reality firsthand as he struggled to secure job interviews and offers in the retail sector.
For Matthew, working at Michaels wasn’t just any job opportunity—it was his dream job. The arts and crafts retailer aligned perfectly with his interests, skills, and creative passions. When he learned about Michael’s “Makers Like Me” program, specifically designed to ensure that talent with developmental disabilities, including Autism, have equal and fair opportunities in recruitment and workplace inclusion, Matthew saw his chance.
Through Reena’s Supported Employment program, Matthew was connected with the Makers Like Me program at Michaels (TOR-Downsview). Following the online application process, Matthew was interviewed by Assistant Store Manager Natasha, who focused on what mattered most: his abilities, attitude, skills, and motivation, not his disability.
Matthew was thrilled when he received the job offer for the Team Member position. His dream had come true.
From his first day, Matthew was welcomed with open arms by the entire Michaels team, led by Cathy and Natasha. The team provided comprehensive training and ongoing support to help him succeed in his new role. They embraced the onsite job coaching support that reinforced his training and workplace inclusion.
Almost one year later, Matthew has built a successful career at Michaels (TOR-Downsview). He’s become a valuable member of the team and genuinely loves his work. The meaningful and sustainable employment has made a profound impact on Matthew’s life, giving him a huge boost in self-confidence and valuable experience in the competitive labour market.
Matthew’s success story demonstrates what’s possible when employers look beyond disabilities to see individual potential and create truly inclusive workplaces.
It is with gratitude to the management and staff at Michaels-Billy Bishop Way, Toronto, that Reena has awarded the store and team the Champion of Workplace Inclusion Certificate of Appreciation for participating in the Makers Like Me program. Cathy and Natasha deserve recognition for their efforts in creating a safe, respectful and inclusive workplace for job seekers who are typically left out of the workforce.
A big thank you to Cathy and Natasha for being champions of workplace inclusion and for making Matthew’s career dreams a reality. We at Reena look forward to many more years of working together to make a difference in the community!