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CANWiN Announces Exciting New Direction to Enhance Inclusive Employment
Canadian Partners in Workforce Innovation (CANWiN), a federally-funded program operated by Open Door Group, is announcing an exciting update to its services to create greater opportunities for inclusive employment. Supporting employers across British Columbia, Saskatchewan, Alberta, Manitoba, and Ontario, this transformation highlights CANWiN’s unwavering dedication to fostering workplace diversity, inclusion, and accessibility. These enhancements are designed to amplify impact and empower employers to achieve long-term success by hiring and supporting talented job seekers with disabilities.
What’s Changing?
Starting Janurary 20th, CANWiN is taking an exciting step forward by focusing services on empowering employers with the tools, training, and resources to thrive in inclusive recruitment, hiring, and retention. While this strategic focus means we will no longer offer recruitment services like candidate matching and the job seekers page, our enhanced efforts will ensure businesses are fully equipped to build inclusive and accessible workplaces.
According to Yat Li, Associate Director of Inclusive Employment Services at Open Door Group, “By prioritizing education and support for employers, CANWiN aims to foster environments where individuals with disabilities can thrive. This employer-focused model is designed to make a significant impact on inclusive employment practices.” CANWiN services will empower employers to create workplaces that are truly inclusive, laying a strong foundation for long-term success in hiring and retaining untapped talent. By focusing on preparing businesses for inclusive hiring, CANWiN ensures a lasting and meaningful impact that benefits employers, service providers, and job seekers with disabilities alike.
What This Means for Employers
Employers will gain tailored support to enhance their ability to attract, hire, and retain diverse talent. Key services include:
- Comprehensive training: Best practices for inclusive recruitment, hiring, and retention through the Four Pillars framework.
- Practical resources: Tools to build capacity and sustain long-term inclusive hiring and retention practices.
- Stronger partnerships: A shared commitment to creating workplaces that reflect the value of diversity and inclusion.
These changes are expected to increase employer confidence and preparedness, resulting in a streamlined recruitment process, successful hiring outcomes and an empowered workforce.
Support for Service Partners
This evolution also strengthens the collaboration between employers and organizations serving individuals with disabilities. Employers who participate in CANWiN’s training programs will gain a deeper appreciation of the value service providers bring, enhancing the productivity and efficiency of these partnerships.
The new approach ensures that job seekers are connected with employers who are well-prepared and committed to inclusive hiring practices, paving the way for sustainable employment opportunities.
For Job Seekers
While CANWiN will no longer offer direct recruitment services or job-matching assistance, the program’s transformation is designed to benefit job seekers indirectly. By preparing employers to create accessible workplaces, CANWiN lays the groundwork for more inclusive opportunities. Job seekers are encouraged to continue working with local employment service providers for tailored support and guidance.
CANWiN remains committed to supporting job seekers by collaborating with preferred service providers and offering resources to help individuals achieve their career goals.
Why This Change Matters
Inclusive hiring practices are transformative, enabling employers to create workplaces where everyone feels valued and empowered. By focusing on these critical areas, CANWiN is shaping a future where inclusion becomes standard practice. This strategic shift emphasizes initiatives that have the greatest impact: prepared, inclusive workplaces ready to embrace untapped talent.
This new direction brings exciting opportunities for success. Together with its partners, CANWiN aims to build a stronger foundation for inclusive employment, ensuring every job seeker has the chance to thrive.
For questions or ideas on enhancing collaboration, reach out to
