Small Business Resources | CFIB

Ready, Willing and Able: Building an Inclusive Workforce | CFIB

Written by admin | Nov 12, 2015 8:08:00 AM

The Ready, Willing and Able Program is a national partnership of the Newfoundland & Labrador Association for Community Living (NLACL), the Canadian Autism Spectrum Disorders Alliance (CASDA) and their member organizations. Funded by the Government of Canada and active in 20 communities across the country, RWA is designed to increase the labour force participation of people with intellectual disabilities and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

In today’s hyper-competitive business environment, the difference between success and failure lies in the talent and diverse skill set of your workforce. There are approximately 500,000 working age adults with intellectual disabilities or ASD across Canada. This untapped workforce can help address current labour shortages while making businesses stronger, more diverse and more productive.

RWA will:

  • Connect and support employers, persons with intellectual disabilities or ASD and local, provincial and national community agencies
  • Promote understanding and awareness among employers and the general public as to the business value of hiring people with intellectual disabilities or ASD
  • Complement and enhance the capacity of community employment service delivery organizations by connecting them to new employer demand

More information on the Ready, Willing & Able program can be obtained by calling 709-722-0790, or by visiting their website at www.readywillingable.ca