Employment Programs and Support: Career Development Services (CDS) - Trail

Offers employment support to individuals with significant barriers to employment. Within each program the overlapping strategies are based on the job seekers individualized skills and abilities.

The three main employment programs offered through CDS are:

Customized Employment Services assists individuals who have significant barriers to employment find and maintain work.  Often the work is created and tailored to meet the job seekers abilities then the employment terms are negotiated with the employer.  The wages, benefits and working conditions always comply with the Employment Standards Act.

Supported Employment Services: An individual typically works in a mainstream position with a job description shared by all others doing the same tasks, but will have supports initially while they are learning the job tasks. The supports will vary from person to person, but generally include an explanation of the job components in a manner that is more compatible to the individuals learning capacity which may include visual prompts.

Learning for Living (LFL): Targeted towards individuals with significant barriers to employment who have identified they would benefit from an opportunity to learn in a college setting, LFL is a 22 week accredited college program which CDS facilitates at the Selkirk College Trail Campus. Following the classroom work, students take part in a practicum placement in a worksite.

CDS Also operates 5 social enterprise businesses:

• Thrifty Treasures Thrift Store
• CDS Property Maintenance Contracts
• GYRO & Haley Park concession stands
• Secure Shred
• CDS Outdoor Landscaping/Snow Removal Crew

In addition the agency offers Homeless Support programs: Getting to Home and La Nina Emergency Shelter

CDS is part of the Trail Association for Community Living (TACL) Society