AACL Applauds Funding to Enhance Employment for Persons With Developmental Disabilities

EDMONTON, Feb. 11, 2014 /CNW/ - Alberta Association for Community Living (AACL) welcomes the announcement from Federal Finance Minister, Jim Flaherty that the budget tabled today in the House of Commons includes $15 million (over three years) for Ready, Willing and Able—an initiative of the Canadian Association for Community Living and its Member Associations — to increase employment for persons with developmental disabilities.

"These funds will enhance what AACL is already achieving in Alberta through our partnerships with Rotary Clubs, the business community, high schools, municipalities, universities and colleges with the support of the Alberta government," said Ms.  Robin Acton, AACL President and the parent of an adult daughter with developmental disabilities who is successfully employed.

AACL's innovative partnerships, which have been nationally and internationally recognized, has successfully demonstrated that many more individuals with developmental disabilities can be meaningfully employed and engaged inclusively in the community than is currently the case.

"With enhanced funding from the federal government that aligns with Alberta's Employment First initiative, the dreams of families and individuals can be more fully realized," said Acton.

Bruce Uditsky, AACL CEO and the parent of an adult son with developmental disabilities who is also successfully employed, said, "There is a need for progressive change and this funding helps support meaningful employment for more people with developmental disabilities across Canada and Alberta.

SOURCE: Alberta Association for Community Living

Robin Acton
AACL, President
780.808.0752
[email protected]

Bruce Uditsky
AACL, CEO
780.940.4269
[email protected]