Todd Reade's Blog

Gary McPherson, advocate for disabled people, dead at 63.

EDMONTON — Celebrated advocate for disabled people and former candidate for PC party leadership Gary McPherson died on Saturday May 8.

McPherson, 63, beat polio after living more than half of his life in the University of Alberta Hospital.

The Edson-born man was diagnosed with polio at the age of nine, leaving him paralyzed and unable to breathe.

While living in the hospital, McPherson slowly weaned himself off a daytime respirator, though he still used one at night, and regained partial use of his left hand and leg.

As he grew stronger, the sports enthusiast began coaching a hospital slo-pitch team.

McPherson became an advocate for disabled people in sports, serving as president of the Edmonton Paralympic Sports Association, and later, president of the Canadian Wheelchair Sports Association.

He also spent eight years as the general manager of the Alberta Northern Lights Wheelchair Basketball team.

McPherson moved out of the hospital and into his own home in 1989.

But his political career began much earlier, in 1971, when he convinced his younger brother to push him from the U of A hospital to Don Getty’s campaign office south of the university.

Within days he was named the campaign’s office manager.

He remained close to Getty, who later named him to the Premier’s Council on the Status of Persons with Disabilities, a committee he chaired for 10 years.

McPherson earned many titles in his life.

He worked as chairman of the Steadward Centre for Personal and Physical Achievement and as vice-chairman of the Alberta Paraplegic Foundation.

He received the Order of Canada and the Alberta Order of Excellence.

He also received an Honorary Doctor of Laws from the U of A and was an adjunct professor in the school’s Department of Physical Education and Sport Studies.

In 2006, McPherson ran for leadership of the governing PC party.

Running in his first political campaign, he never really had a shot against better known and better funded candidates such as Jim Dinning and Ed Stelmach.

But he impressed nearly everyone and acted as the party’s conscience, warning them about complacency.

“Dr. Gary McPherson was an amazing Albertan with a unique courage and commitment to this province,” Premier Ed Stelmach said in a statement Saturday.

“He inspired all of us with his dedication and leadership as a tireless advocate for those who face daily challenges in this life.”

Stelmach added that he considered McPherson a dear friend.

“On behalf of all Albertans, I offer our most heartfelt sympathy to his family. Their loss is Alberta’s loss as well,” Stelmach said.

Gay Education – pretty old school, but…

Philadelphia – Recipe Detail.

1. Well, aren’t we just a ray of fucking sunshine?
2. Not the brightest crayon in the box now, are we?
3. Do I look like a fucking people person?
4. This isn’t an office. It’s Hell with fluorescent lighting.
5. I pretend to work. They pretend to pay me.
6. You! Off my planet!!
7. Practice random acts of intelligence, and a senseless act of self-control.
8. I like cats too. Let’s exchange recipes.
9. Did the aliens forget to remove your anal probe?
10. And your cry-baby whiny-assed opinion would be…?
11. How many times do I have to flush before you go away?
12. Aw, did I step on your poor little bitty ego?
13. How do I set a laser printer to stun?
14. I’m not tense, just terribly, terribly alert.
15. When I want your opinion, I’ll give it to you.
16. Earth is full, go home!

So I was cleaning the house (yes, I said cleaning the house) and I managed to hurt my back… I think the key element here is that I am so damned out of shape that I am back to being able to hurt myself without doing anything… time to start to think about gym time again…

Supervisor, Personal Support Service
Position Type: Full Time Date Ad Posted: 6/18/2009
Job Region: ON – Ottawa Area Application Deadline: 6/27/2009
Location(s): Ottawa Area

Carefor Health & Community Services is a not-for-profit, charitable health care organization offering a wide variety of services in the greater Ottawa area, Eastern Counties and Pembroke. With over 750 staff and 300 volunteers, our skilled team members work closely with clients, caregivers and a multidisciplinary health care team to deliver quality and innovative support services.

Responsibilities:

The Supervisor provides support and supervision to Home Support and Personal Support Workers working in the community including conducting performance appraisals, teaching delegated tasks to unregulated workers and identifying safety risks for staff. The Supervisor also conducts initial assessment visits with new clients, identifies client safety risks, participates in case conferences and responds to client complaints or concerns.
Qualifications:

Certificate of Competence/License as a Registered Nurse or Registered Practical Nurse in the province of Ontario.
Excellent communication skills and an understanding of effective communication methods when dealing with a culturally diverse population and a variety of individuals including staff, other service providers, clients, office staff, and CCAC Case Managers.
Previous experience with supervision, training or in a leadership role
Strong clinical assessments skills
Proven strong problem solving and decision making ability
Ability to work collaboratively as a member of an interdisciplinary team.
A vehicle and a valid Ontario Drivers license are required
Ability to manage coinciding demands
Demonstrated flexibility and adaptability
Previous experience working with unregulated workers preferred
Interested applicants should apply in writing to Human Resources, no later than 4:30 p.m., Thursday, June 25, 2009 to jobs@carefor.ca or by fax to (613) 749-4002.

Any questions regarding the position can be addressed to Nancy Mylrea, Manager, Personal Support Services at (613) 749-7557 extension 125.

If you are interested in finding out more about Carefor, please visit our web site www.carefor.ca.

“A rewarding career in caring starts here”

Contact by: Email, Fax, Mail, Phone, Website

Job Contact Information
Sheila Reid
Human Resources
Carefor Health and Community Services
Centre St. Laurent Shopping Centre,
Box/C.P 205, 1200 St. Laurent Blvd
Ottawa, Ontario K1K 3B8

Phone: (613) 749-7557
Fax: (613) 749-4002
Email: jobs@carefor.ca
For more information visit: http://www.carefor.ca

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Vancouver Public Library Foundation

Development Coordinator
Position Type: Part Time Date Ad Posted: 6/18/2009
Job Region: BC – Vancouver & Lower Mainland Application Deadline: 6/28/2009
Location(s): Vancouver
Years Experience: minumum 3 years fundraising

Vancouver Public Library Foundation

Established in 1997, the Vancouver Public Library Foundation raises funds for outreach programs and services that would otherwise not be offered due to lack of funds. A strong public library system is the very foundation upon which a community can build for the future.

The Foundation’s goal is to extend the Library’s literacy reach through innovative literacy outreach programs and resources, reaching out to those people most in need of our services and assistance. Private funding can make the difference between a great library system and an outstanding library system. Like the needs of the people we serve, we are constantly adapting to meet new challenges.

Responsibilities:

Assist in the planning and implementation of a comprehensive fundraising program
Assist in securing, strengthening & growing broad financial support in all areas of giving
Assist with database management of Raiser’s Edge fundraising system
Ensure accuracy, consistency and confidentiality of information management
Conduct donor research and create donor profiles
Produce and manage accurate donor lists and reports as required
Take a proactive approach to growing the Foundation’s database
Communications and marketing support as required
Assist with donor stewardship
Assist with proposal writing, presentations and stewardship reports
Maintain a high level of customer service and confidentiality to all donors, volunteers, supporters and staff
Other duties as required

Qualifications:

University degree or equivalent combination of experience and education
Minimum of 3 years fundraising experience and a proven track record
1-2 years experience using Raiser’s Edge donor database management system
Proficient in Microsoft Office
Excellent written and verbal communications skills and interpersonal skills, using tact, diplomacy and discretion
Ability to work well under pressure, effectively multi-task, manage multiple deadlines and achieve milestones
Attention to detail, solid organization and analytical skills
Innovative and creative, and ability to think strategically
Strong interpersonal, customer service, problem solving and planning skills
Adaptability and flexibility
Maintain integrity and high ethical standards
Strong team player with demonstrated ability to work independently
Self starter, capable of identifying the need for and taking independent action with minimum supervision
Ability to develop cooperative working relationships

Junior Position: 1 year contract, part-time employee (4 days/week) with strong possibility of renewal. Hours may be negotiable. No benefits at this time.

Please include an outline of your availability in your cover letter.

While the Foundation thanks you in advance for your interest, only those candidates being considered will be contacted.

Compensation Type: Hourly Contact by: Email, Fax
Amount: Dependant upon qualifications and experience

Job Contact Information
Joan Brookes
Administrative Assistant
Vancouver Public Library Foundation
Fax: (604) 331-4080
Email: foundation@vpl.ca
For more information visit: http://www.vplfoundation.ca

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Planned Parenthood of Toronto

Administrative Assistant
Position Type: Contract – Part Time Date Ad Posted: 6/17/2009
Job Region: ON – Metro Toronto Area Application Deadline: 6/24/2009
Location(s): Yorkville – Annex – Toronto
Years Experience: 1-2

Planned Parenthood Toronto is a fully accredited community health centre that provides primary health care services to youth 13 to 29 years as well as health promotion programming, education, training and research to improve the health and well being of Toronto’s diverse communities. We are currently seeking an Administrative Assistant to work 18.75 (part-time) hours per week from June 29th to September 4, 2009 to assist in our fundraising activities and to provide general administrative support to the agency. This contract position is to fill a temporary vacancy due to an employee secondment.

Responsibilities:

The Administrative Assistant assists in the smooth operation of the agency by providing administrative and clerical support to the Manager of Administration and Operations and the Resource Development Coordinator.

Resource Development:
Assist in the coordination of PPT’s resource development activities
Process, track and reconcile all donations
Create and maintain a central filing system for resource development materials and activities
Maintain and update the donor database
Support all donor and member correspondence including direct mail, thank you letters, acquisition mailings and newsletters
Provide resource development activity reports as required
Provide administrative support to the Resource Development Committee including minute taking, room bookings, etc.

Administration:
Maintain and update the human resources administrative systems, including staff time accruals, job postings, staff orientation manual and administrative manual and orient all new staff to administrative systems and practices
Maintain and update the physical asset inventory of the agency and order, maintain and monitor the general office supply inventory
Conduct general clerical tasks as assigned or directed by the Manager, Administration and Operations.

Qualifications:

2-year Community College Diploma in a related field with 1 – 2 years work experience in a similar role or 3 – 5 years equivalent experience in a similar role
Strong computer skills including MS Office, with a specific expertise in Excel and Access, and knowledge of donor management software.
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
Demonstrated teamwork and organizational abilities
Demonstrated attention to detail and ability to meet deadlines
Demonstrated commitment to equity goals and to pro- choice, youth positive, gay-positive and sex-positive values.
Proven ability to work independently and within a team environment.

Please forward letter of interest and resume by June 24th to:

Hiring Committee (Administrative Assistant )
Planned Parenthood Toronto
36-B Prince Arthur Avenue
Toronto, ON M5R 1A9
FAX: (416) 96l-25l2
E-Mail: ppt@ppt.on.ca

PPT is committed to the principles of equity and ensuring that our hiring practices are enriched by the people, needs and desires of Toronto’s diverse communities. We thank all applicants for their interest. Only those selected for an interview will be contacted. No phone calls please.

Contact by: Email, Fax, Mail

Job Contact Information

Planned Parenthood of Toronto
36B Prince Arthur Avenue
Toronto, Ontario M5R 1A9

Fax: (416) 961-2512
Email: ppt@ppt.on.ca
For more information visit: http://www.ppt.on.ca

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Surrey Women`s Centre Society

Program Manager
Position Type: Full Time Date Ad Posted: 6/17/2009
Job Region: BC – Vancouver & Lower Mainland Application Deadline: 7/12/2009
Location(s): Surrey
Years Experience: 2-3

The Program Manager provides leadership and direction to our crisis services including the support line, 1:1 support, housing and income clinic, clothing exchange, and community kitchen. This position is responsible for the day-to-day operational management of all program activities and functions. Primary responsibilities include: allocating program resources to ensure the efficient and effective delivery of services, developing, implementing and evaluating program policies, procedures and standards, liaising with key stakeholders, monitoring program budgets and, supervising program staff.

Responsibilities:

Plan, implement and oversee the day-to-day activities of the program.
Ensure client service quality standards required by funders and professional bodies where applicable.
Facilitate program processes to enhance communication and support effective team development.
Supervise team by participating in the hiring, orientation, training, coaching and evaluation of employees, volunteers and practicum students.
Promote community awareness of the program, services and issues related to sexual and physical violence.
Develop, implement and maintain local coordination protocols with key community stakeholders..
Maintain accurate up-to-date client records, including documentation of all client contacts, referrals to and consultation with community agencies and professionals.
Provide narrative and statistical reports regarding service delivery to the Executive Director, funding and regulatory bodies as required.
Maintain effective relations and communications with SWC key stakeholders such as members, donors, funding bodies and prospective sources of revenue.

Qualifications:

Post-secondary degree or diploma in a related human/social service field or a combination of education, training and experience.
Victim services background is an asset.
Demonstrated experience providing crisis intervention and counselling for survivors of violence in relationships, sexual assault, physical and sexual childhood abuse, criminal harassment, elder abuse and other forms of violence.
Feminist and trauma-based analysis of violence against women and children and knowledge of harm reduction models.
Knowledge of the criminal justice system and community resources in Surrey and the surrounding areas.
Demonstrated ability to work with diverse clientele and cultural competency.
Demonstrated ability to multi-task, and exercise creative problem-solving.
Demonstrated ability to work independently and as a part of team.
Demonstrated ability to supervise and mentor staff and/or volunteers using participatory leadership and management practices.
Excellent interpersonal, communication and conflict resolution skills.
Excellent computer and administrative skills.
Clear criminal records check.
Valid BC driver’s license and access to a reliable vehicle is an asset.
Please submit resume and cover letter by Friday July 12, 2009 to: jobs@surreywomencentre.ca

No phone calls please.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Compensation Type: Salary Contact by: Email

Job Contact Information
Sonya Boyce
Surrey Women`s Centre Society
Email: jobs@surreywomencentre.ca
For more information visit: http://www.surreywomencentre.ca

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Join ARPA as they celebrate the many ways recreation and parks enhance quality of life in Alberta. June is a perfect time to get kids outdoors, and engaging the natural world as it blooms and grows around them. It is particularly timely this year as awareness about the importance of connecting children with nature grows.

To help communities get their children active in nature this June, ARPA has created an activity passport with fun ideas to get outside, engage with the natural environment and be active. Complete nine out of the twelve activities and enter your submission online to win an outdoor prize package! Complete the activities with friends, at a day camp, or individually.

Sign the June is Recreation and Parks Month Charter to declare yourself a champion for Recreation and Parks Month in your family, workplace and community. All the champions will be entered into the inaugural ‘Bobblehead Awards’ program.

Become a Champion for 2009!
Registration for communities, organizations and businesses celebrating June as Recreation and Parks Month is now open for 2009 – All registrants will receive beach balls, tattoo’s and other great giveaways for their celebrations! Email vposchadel@arpaonline.ca to register.

Tell us what events are happening in your community in June. Post your events on the online calendar and you will receive an ‘Event Goodie Kit’ full of fun items to distribute at your event. Post your Event

Visit www.june.arpaonline.ca or contact Heather O’Hearn, Resource Coordinator, at 780-644-8440 or hohearn@aceleaders.ca for more details about any of these activities, media templates, or information about June is Recreation and Parks Month.