Keep an eye out on Thursday, October 21, as the Municipality of Meaford will be participating in “Light It Up! For National Disability Employment Awareness Month”.
This national, one-night coordinated lighting event runs during National Disability Employment Awareness Month, and helps to spotlight the many ways people who have a disability contribute to businesses and their communities, helping companies be successful and competitive.
The Municipality of Meaford is joining in by lighting our water tower in purple and blue on the evening of Thursday, October 21. Across Canada, cities, municipalities, and communities both large and small will be participating in the event by lighting bridges, buildings, landmarks, and signs in purple and blue.
With October being National Disability Employment Awareness Month, we want to shine a spotlight on some of the many organizations in our area which are committed to seeing people with disabilities thrive in the workforce. These services in our community help to highlight the importance of equal opportunity employment and the many ways people with disabilities positively contribute to the work force every day.
LEADS Employment Services
LEADS Employment Services is a not-for-profit employment and skills development agency, and provides specialized services for people aged 15 to 60+ with disabilities and/or employment-related barriers. They are able to assist individuals with disabilities who are seeking, securing, or maintaining employment in our area, and can gear their services to each individual and their needs. Their location in Owen Sound offers services to clients in the Municipality of Meaford, as well as communities across Grey and Bruce counties. To learn more, call toll free at 1-866-955-3237 or visit www.leadsservices.com.
YMCA Employment Services
YMCA Employment Services offers clients comprehensive job search and employment services, assists with job search strategies including resume preparation, and supports those looking to maintain employment by offering training supports. Employment Advisors are also available to work one-on-one with each individual to assess and refer them to various Employment Ontario programs. These programs include Employment Services, Apprenticeship, Second Career, Youth Job Connection, and Essential Skills Supportive Care training. Within these programs, individuals can access a variety of career exploration, employment preparation, and skills training to advance their career opportunities. In-person services will once again be offered at the Meaford Public Library, pending COVID restrictions. To learn more, call 519-371-9222 ext. 6 or visit www.ymcaowensound.on.ca/employment.
Metis Nation of Ontario Employment & Training
The Metis Nation of Ontario offers Employment & Training programs that provide assistance to clients with disabilities to obtain employment and complete required training. They also provide further supports required for employment, such as access to equipment, special needs devices, tutoring, and transportation. To learn more, call toll free at 1-800-263-4889.
Community Living Meaford – Employment Services
Community Living Meaford is dedicated to supporting people with disabilities in attaining their employment goals. Individuals are supported in a variety of jobs, ranging from office administration to manufacturing and customer service. Through Employment Services, people experience the dignity and camaraderie of work. Employment Services supports businesses to employ people with disabilities. Adults receive assistance in finding meaningful employment, including job readiness, resume writing, job searches, development with potential employers, and job coaching. In turn, participating businesses gain a hard-working, dedicated employee. To learn more, call 519-538-4165 or email info@communitylivingmeaford.ca.
Accessible Transportation Options 
Need a ride to work? You’ve got options!
Meaford Moves+ is an accessible door-to-door transit service that will take you to professional appointments or to work right here in the Municipality of Meaford. To find out how to apply, visit www.meaford.ca/transit or phone 519-538-1060 ext. 1100.
Working out of town? No problem! The Grey Transit Route can provide an accessible ride to your job or appointment, with stops located throughout the Municipality. Routes are available to Owen Sound or Town of the Blue Mountains, and much more. To reserve your ticket, call 226-910-1001 or for route information, visit www.grey.ca/gtr.
