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"We welcome its creation, and believe that it will help empower self-advocates, families and other individuals supporting adults with developmental disabilities.” - Darryl Walker, BCGEU President.
Vancouver (25 Feb. 2014) — The B.C. Government and Service Employees' Union (BCGEU/NUPGE) and Community Living BC (CLBC) have launched a $100,000 scholarship fund to benefit adults with developmental disabilities being served by CLBC across the province. The fund was established as a result of bargaining negotiations between CLBC and BCGEU/NUPGE.
New scholarship created to assist people with developmental disabilities
“BCGEU/NUPGE represents around 400 workers at CLBC and over 4,000 community living workers supporting adults and youth with developmental disabilities and their families across the province," said Darryl Walker, BCGEU President. "The CLBC/BCGEU scholarship fund was established as a direct result from negotiations at the bargaining table. We welcome its creation, and believe that it will help empower self-advocates, families and other individuals supporting adults with developmental disabilities.”
People being served by CLBC will be eligible to apply for a scholarship to support their personal and professional development. The 2014 applications will be accepted for the next 45 days - until March 31, 2014 - and are available online at:
- B.C. Self Advocate Net
- B. C. Government and Service Employees Union
- Community Living B.C. and all CLBC offices
Scholarships designed to assist with skills training, education and recreation activities to develop new skills
The fund was developed based on survey responses from self-advocates, families, service providers and CLBC staff. Scholarship funds totalling $100,000 will be distributed over five years and allocated equally to CLBC’s three regions (North/Interior, Fraser, Vancouver Coastal/Island). A maximum contribution of $2,500/person will be established and funding priorities will focus on:
- skills training related to securing employment opportunities
- training courses being offered by accredited BC institutions
- indirect costs associated with attending post-secondary education and training
- community recreation activities that promote quality of life and new skills
The first round of successful applicants is expected to be confirmed in spring of 2014. Applications will be reviewed by a joint committee.
More information:
NUPGE
The National Union of Public and General Employees (NUPGE) is one of Canada's largest labour organizations with over 340,000 members. Our mission is to improve the lives of working families and to build a stronger Canada by ensuring our common wealth is used for the common good. NUPGE