SARC Update Winter 2011

WINTER 2011

In this issue...

MEMBER NEWS 2 SARC NEWS 9 SARCAN NEWS 12 PAYROLL & BENEFITS 14

Mackenzie Society Ventures Inc. Celebrates 25 Years Participants Celebrate event with Premier Wall and Deputy Premier Krawetz

-Page 8 Weyburn Wor-Kin Shop Corp. Benefits from Cenovo Energy’s Thanks & Giving Campaign Page 3

Minister McMorris visits Harvest Community- Page 3 Meadow Lake Opens New Group Home; Expands SARCAN - Page 2 SARCAN Employee Recognition Day Honours Employees from 5 to 20 Years of Service - Page 13

Sakitawak Group Home Opens in Ile-a-la-Crosse Page 5 KEN HOMENICK: Regina’s Cosmopolitan Learning Centre Expands to House Therapeutic SARCAN’s Connections Director Pool and Community of Operations Program Says - Page 5

Farewell After More than 20 Years Menno Homes of Saskatchewan Inc. Opens Crisis - Page 8 4 Prevention and Suport Program - Page

The SARC Update is published by: The SARC Update is published by: Saskatchewan Association of Rehabilitation Centres The Saskatchewan111 Association of Rehabilitation Centres Cardinal Crescent 111 Cardinal SK Crescent Saskatoon, S7L 6H5 www.sarcsarcan.ca Saskatoon, SK S7L 6H5 Editor: Sydney Smith, Communications Officer www.sarcsarcan.ca

Editor: Sydney Smith, Communications Officer

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SARC UPDATE WINTER 2011

Variety Place Inc. has opened a new Group Home, Latimer House. The official Grand Opening took place on September 13, 2011, and featured a ceremonial cake cutting celebration for Variety Place staff, particpants’, participants families and special guests, including Minister of Highways and Infrastructure, Jim Reiter, who is also the MLA for Outlook.

The new group home, the second of two in the Outlook area, was made possible through a partnership with Variety Place Inc. and the Ministry of Social Services. In total, $615,000 was given to Variety Place, Inc. for construction of the two new homes.

Particpants and special guests participate in a celebratory cake cutting ceremony.

Latimer House.

Cheshire Homes of Regina would like to acknowledge two donations we received this past year.

We were fortunate to receive a $5,000 donation from Sasktel Pioneers to purchase a ceiling track lift system for one of our homes.

We were also very fortunate when one of our former Board Members was given a Kaiser Foundation Award for Community Development. The award was a donation of $10,000 to his favourite charity, which just so happened to be Cheshire Homes of Regina, Inc. This donation was used to purchase new flat screen TVs and home theatre systems for our homes.

Debbie Yurkoski Executive Director Cheshire Homes of Regina, Inc.

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Weyburn Wor-Kin Shop Corp. Benefits from Cenovo Thanks & Giving Campaign

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he Weyburn Wor-kin Shop received a helpful donation from Cenovus Energy, recently. A 2008 half-ton truck was presented to the Wor-kin Shop on October 20 when Cenovus sponsored a turkey dinner for participants, board, and staff as part of the oil company’s Thanks and Giving program.

Cenovo Staff at the Calgary Head Office Celebrate the Annual Thanks & Giving Program.

Other local businesses contributed to the truck donation; Andrew Agencies has donated the cost of licensing and registration, Weyburn Co-op will contribute gasoline, and Pro-Touch Signs did the signage on the truck.

Executive Director Andria Brady explains why the truck is a big help for the recycling program. “This new truck that we were presented with by Cenovus and their partners will make all the difference to that program continuing, and we do operate a weekly pick-up service that we will use this for.”

Cenovus’s annual employee giving campaign, Thanks & Giving, runs throughout the month of October.

Employees plan their annual charitable giving and Cenovus matches donations to a maximum of $25,000, dollar for dollar. Throughout the month staff also participate in volunteer opportunities in the communities where they live and work. Brady adds that they are very thankful for the donations.

The 2008 3/4 Tonne Truck Purchased for the Weyburn Wor-Kin Shop Corp by the Cenovus Thanks By Jennifer LaCharite Reprinted with Permission & Giving Program.

Article © 2011 by discoverweyburn.com

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Official Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at Atsatia House From L to R: Lisa Astrope, Team Leader, Menno Homes of Sask. Inc. (MHSI) Atsatia House; Tanya Mitzel, MHSI Executive Director; Martensville MLA Nancy Heppner; Peter Guenther, Chairman, MHSI Board of Directors; Barbara Schultz, Mayor of Waldheim; Melanie Weiss, SARC Director of Member Services; and Bo Mahlangu, MHSI Coordinator of MHSI Crisis Prevention & Support Program.

The new Crisis Prevention & Support Program and Atsatia House (the residential service component) for individuals with differing abilities officially opened on September 19, 2011 in the RM of Laird, outside of the Village of Hepburn. The expansion of services for individuals with differing abilities has been made possible through the continued partnership between the Government of Saskatchewan and Menno Homes of Sask. Inc. Crisis prevention, education, outreach and a residential service is provided by Menno Homes of Sask. Inc. Crisis Prevention & Support Program (MHSI-CPSP). These services may be accessed in order to prevent potential crisis defined as loss of one’s home, loss of vocational support, injury to self or others, and unnecessary extensions of hospitalization.

Crisis prevention and intervention services are a necessary component of the continuum of community-based services for individuals with an intellectual disability. The intent of the Crisis Prevention & Support Program (CPSP) is to augment, not duplicate, the community’s existing resources while filling a gap in the service continuum.

“We congratulate the board of directors and staff of Menno Homes for developing and operating this program for people with intellectual disabilities in the Waldheim-Hepburn area,” Martensville MLA, Nancy Heppner, said, on behalf of Social Services Minister June Draude. “Community-based organizations such as Menno Homes play a valuable role in

supporting people with intellectual disabilities to be included in their communities.”

“This new program is the first of its kind in the Central Region designed specifically to meet the needs of individuals with disabilities in order to prevent potential crisis or to support individuals while they are in crisis,” MHSI Board Chair Peter Guenther said. “This program will further enhance the specialized supports offered to individuals with disabilities who may be in crisis”. MHSI administers eight residential programs supporting 42 individuals and day programs supporting 70+ individuals with disabilities, in the community of Waldheim.

In October 2008, the province announced a four-year, $76.9 million initiative to eliminate the waitlist of 440 Saskatchewan individuals with intellectual disabilities who require residential, day, and specialized programs that meet their assessed needs.

This included $27.8 million to fund capital projects and is the largest investment in Saskatchewan history to support people with intellectual disabilities. Through the Ministry of Social Services, the province contributed one-time capital funding of $250,000 to assist MHSI to develop specialized services for individuals with disabilities. This contribution means that individuals requiring specialized services will now be served by the Crisis Prevention & Support Program and Atsatia House, the Residential Service, of MHSI. -Tanya Mitzel Executive Director, MHSI

SARC UPDAT UPDATE ATE E WI WINT WINTER NTER ER 2 2011 011 01 1

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Cosmopolitan Learning Centre Expands

By Sharla Schofield Cosmopolitan Learning Centre The Cosmopolitan Learning Centre has had another busy year. The Centre has completed a building addition of approximately 9,000 square feet. The addition houses the Community Connections program as well as a therapeutic pool area. This has been an exciting venture for the organization that will greatly enhance services for both existing and future participants of the program.

Currently, there are over 200 people who attend the day program.

This project could not have been possible without the support of the Cosmopolitan Clubs, the Ministry of Social Services, families, and other community partners. Thank you to all who have played a role in this project. A grand opening is planned for the spring of 2012.

The Cosmopolitan Learning Centre has again partnered with the University of Regina’s Kinesiology and Health Studies Faculty in assisting students to gain practical work experience/knowledge in their field of study. Program participants receive the opportunity to travel to the University, accompanied with support sta, to take part in a variety of activities. Thank you to everyone involved in making this partnership a success.

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Sept 9th, 2011 will go down in the Cosmo record book not only for its unusually hot temperature (33 degrees Celsius) but as the day we had the most fun we’ve ever had. The 40th Anniversary committee planned for a year to present this day; jam packed full of entertainment, dignitaries, food, and fun. We called it the Miracle on 34th Street.

Cashback opened the day with some old time Johnny Cash favourites. We interrupted the dancing for a ceremonial balloon launch by the participants with start dates in 1971.

16 of the 17 participants were on hand to release 40 blue and white balloons (pictured). Lieutenant Governor Gordon Barnhart said some congratulatory words and also released a balloon. He handed out many pins and toured Cosmo. For those who didn’t like the heat, activities were going on in the gym. The Cosmo Choir performed inside, as did the Young at Heart singers.

We had local celebrities and participants compete in the Cosmo Minute to Win it Challenge. Our celebrities included; John Gormley , Warren Dean, Kevin Jesus, Michelle Nelson, Cristy Beggs, Gary Nickel, Constable Erica Weber, Constable

Kevi Kevi vin n Sc Schw hwar hw artz ar tz,, Ma tz Mast ster st er Corrpo pora al Ia an Sc Scobie e, an and d Ba attm man n.

Th hey y had a so mu much ch fun n tha hatt th the ey y wa an nte ted d us us to ce cele l br le brat atte ou ate ourr 41st Anniv 41 nn niv iver ersa er sary sa ry nex xt ye year ar in the th he ssa ame fas ash hiio on n.

Mu uch to ev ever e yo er yone ne’s e’s dellig ight ht,, th ht the b ba arr rric icad ad de at at the he end of th the e stre st reet et ope pene ne ed an nd iin n pul u le ed a w wh hiitte te liim mo o. We W cou ould dn’t n’’t be beli liev ev ve it whe en El E vi v s hiims msel elff ssttep el eppe ped pe do ou ut! t We lo ov ve ed E Ellv viis’ s’ per e fo orm rmance ance an and he an h eve ven n came ca ame m dow wn frrom m the he sta tage ge e to m miin ng gle le wit ith h us us. A few pa fe art rtic iccipan ip pan a ts t got o to ta take ke e a rid ide in in Elv viss’ limo lliimo mo wit ith hi him. him.

Afte Afte er El Elvi vis, s we we ere e ent n er e ta ain ine ed d by a bo oxiing g dem emon nst stra r tion in n the e MccN Nei Nei elb bu uildi ding ng cou urt rtes te esssy y off Nellso on Bo oxi x ng g. W We e enj njoy oyed e so mucch ffo o ood od thrrou ugh ghou outt th ou he da d y in ncl c ud udin ing g ho otd tdo og gs, gs, s, pop opco corn rn,, rn j ice, ju ice and nd a tur u ke k y di dinn nner err for or sup uppe per. pe r. The Cel elti ticc ba and nd,, Ba Back ck k of tth he Bu us, pla laye ye ed al alll ev even enin en in ng g.. The here r was a fi re firre tr t uc u k k,, sup per heros erros o , circ ci rcus rc us per e fo form r er rm ers, s a pho s, hoto to boo o th th,, sp spee ech ches ess, an es, nd a ce cere remo re moni nial al cake ca ke cut utti ting ng.. A sp spec ecia ial al g giift ft of a wh whee eelc lcha hair irr van a wass pre rese sent nted ed from from fr om Po ottas a h Co Corp rp p. We ha had pl p en e tty y of gu gues essts ts and d lot otss o off fun un..

We Hop We ope to to see eve ery ryone in 10 0 yea ye year arrs time tim ti me e at o ou ur 550 0th th!

An A nn na a MccC Cal allu l um lu Vo ollu untee ntte ee er Co Coor Coor ordi diina na n ato tor Co ossm mop pol olittan Ind nd dusstries Lt Ltd d.

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Mutiw works Corporattio on’s Annu ual Ch hristmas Parrty y Hosts a Very Spe ecial Santa Claus Santa was rockin’ and, quite literally, rollin’ at Multiworks’ annual Christmas Party this year.

Multiworks’ Christmas Party tradition always has a visit from Santa Claus, but, this year, there was a special twist.

Prairie e Co ommunitty Endea avours, Inc. Ho osts Holida ay Comm munity Kittche en and Sile ent Auction At Prairie Community Endeavors in Spiritwood, we had a great Community Kitchen on December 7, 2011. This time we made a wonderful meal, including: two chickens, lots of stuffing, a marinated vegetable salad, and a bean casserole.

It was absolutely delicious! Many participants came from our local high school and even from Medstead. We have our Community Kitchen every month, and everyone participates in preparing, cooking, and eating the meal.

They also get to take the recipes home to show their family what they created that day! Afterwards, everyone helps in the cleanup and then they all discuss what they are going to make for next month’s Community Kitchen.

On December 14 we closed our Silent Auction which had been running since August. We have over 50 items! We are also getting ready to host our anual Christmas party.

There will be games and a full Christmas meal, with all the trimmings. At the end, everyone gets to go home with a gift. What a way to start the holidays! We will be closing for the week between Christmas and New Years so everyone has a chance to visit their friends and family over the holidays.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Tracy Passley Executive Director Prairie Community Endeavours, Inc.

Multiworks participant Francis Favel asked if he could be Santa this year. So, for the first time, Santa came into the party via wheelchair. Pictured below, with participant Darren Cornet on his knee, we’re not sure if Santa or the rest of us had more fun at this year’s Christmas Party.

Dave Thickett Executive Director Multiworks Corporation

Multiworks Corporation Participant, Darren Cornet, enjoys sitting on Santa’s knee. Santa, played by Multiworks Participant, Francis Favel, enjoys travelling by wheelchair instead of by sleigh.

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By Gailene Pasiechnik General Manager, Mackenzie Society Ventures, Inc. (MSVI) On September 22nd, 2011 Mackenzie Society Ventures, Inc. (MSVI) celebrated 25 years of service to the community of Preeceville. This was a very exciting event for the Agency staff and participants. The event started at 10am, and the Master of Ceremonies was Miles Russell, who had been in attendance of the opening of Mackenzie Training Centre in May of 1986. The Agency was very fortunate to have Premier Brad Wall and Deputy Premier Ken Krawetz in attendance as well as Don Ostapak (one of the founding members of MSVI), Melanie Weiss (Director of Member Cutting the Cake. Back Row (L to R): Preeceville Mayor Garth Harris; SARC Director of Member Services, SARC), Jena Tuchscherer (Manager of Community Services, Melanie Weiss; Deputy Premier Ken Krawetz; Premier Brad Wall; MSVI Board Member Services, CLSD), Preeceville Mayor Garth Harris, and Myrna Myrna Yaholnitsky; MSVI General Manager, Gailene Pasiechnik; CLSD Manager of Community Yaholnitsky (MSVI Board of Directors).

Services, Jena Tuchscherer. Front Row (L to R): MSVI Particpants Kelly Pozniak & Dawn Sikora.

MSVI’s General Manager, Gailene Pasiechnik, gave the official welcome for the event, thanking the board, staff, participants and community for all their support. She also thanked the government for “being committed to making positive things happen for people with intellectual disabilities and their families in our province”. Both Deputy Premier Ken Krawetz and Premier Brad Wall focussed on the accomplishments and dedication this sector has to serving people with disabilities. As Premier Wall said in his speech, “Throughout Saskatchewan there are numerous, amazing stories of the many strengths and community organizations that improve the quality of life for others. The Mackenzie Society Ventures is a great example of one of these successes.”

Don Ostapak, founding member, said, “MSVI was born at our kitchen table. We have a daughter with special needs and there were no programs in place. We approached the government and found that if we did the footwork that funding would be available.” Myrna Yaholnitsky, representing the Board of Directors, said,“From these small beginnings, the society has grown and flourished over the years. Currently MSVI serves 31 individuals and families and employs a staff of 55. MSVI operates five group homes, offering various programs to provide lifelong support and services to people with disabilities.”

“The Mackenzie Society is a valuable asset to the community,” said Mayor Garth Harris, “The assistance it provides to people with disabilities is greatly appreciated. People with disabilities are an intricate part of our community and we are pleased to celebrate the vital role the Mackenzie Society plays in their lives. We are also thankful, that because of the Mackenzie Society, people with disabilities are able to live and work in their own communities without having to go to larger centres for assistance.”

Presenting a gift to the Premier. From L to R: Gailene Pasiechnik, General Manager, MacKenzie Society Ventures, Inc.; Rick Dutchak, Participant, MacKenzie Society Ventures, Inc.; Premier Brad Wall; and Deputy Premier Ken Krawetz.

Guest speaker, Melanie Weiss, Director of Member Services for SARC, said “It is a true pillar of the community, providing very important services to people with disabilities and their families. It all starts with opportunity, and the opportunities that are facilitated to individuals through Mackenzie Society Ventures are irreplaceable.” Jena Tuchscherer, Manager of Community Services for CLSD, was very complimentary of the working relationship between CLSD and MSVI. The program featured a presentation highlighting the group homes, programs and services provided by the Agency, particpants and supporters. The presentation was dedicated to the many volunteers who support the Agency both with time and money. Speeches concluded with Rick Dutchak, on behalf of the Agency, presenting BBQ aprons and mitts that were made by the participants in the Vocational Skills Program to Premier Wall and Deputy Premier Krawetz. Following the presentation, everyone enjoyed a celebratory cake. People were encouraged to tour Mackenzie Training Centre. The Agency is extremely grateful for the wonderful support we’ve had over the years and look forward to serving the community for many more.

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The Recruitment and Retention Co omm mit itttee, made up of representatives from the Min inis istry of Social Services, SARC, and SARC Members with funding g th thrrou rough the Waitlist Initiative, has had a busy fall and is curr rren e tl en t y in the planning process to have another busy year! Here ere are some updates on pr p ojjects ts des esig gned to support SARC Memb mb ber e s with their recruitment/ retention challenges: Structured Interrvi vie ew Toolkit This is the second major resource developed by the committee, following the Realistic Job Preview Toolkit launched in 2010.

This resource addresses the need for having a practical guide in conducting employee selection interviews. It covers the Who, What, When, Where, and Why of structured interviews, best practices on reference checking, and also sample interview questions for both Direct Support Professionals and Program Coordinators that link to competencies required to be successful in the role. The toolkit was launched at SARC’s Fall Conference, October 18-19. Following the conference, a copy was mailed to all Members free of charge.

Initial feedback has been positive; specifically that the sample interview questions are very professional and represent the agency in a very positive way. Members have also relayed that they are using it to identify gaps in a candidate’s knowledge base to translate to a training checklist if hired.

Managem ment Skills Develo opm men entt Pr Pro ogra og ram In recognition of the sector-specific knowledge and supports that new CBO Executive Directors/Managers often require, SARC is developing a set of curriculum to support SARC Member Agency leadership in the areas of: Human Resources (employee/ labour relations, performance management, recruitment/retention), Communication, Governance, Risk Management, Fostering Effective Teams, Managing Services and Supports for People with Disabilities, and Financial/Operations Management. Phase 1 is the curriculum development, and delivery mechanisms have not yet been determined. The planned completion date is Fall 2012.

New Em mployyee Orienttatio on/On nboard ding Prog gram In an effort to improve employee retention, the committee will be outsourcing the development of an orientation/onboarding program. It will be set up as a checklist for management over the course of the first year of employment, covering the areas of corporate overviews, job expectations, policies, and administrative items through socialization, formalized learning plans, mentorship, and feedback mechanisms. The planned completion date is Fall 2012.

Sector Prromottion The committee has also been working on a few initiatives to promote the disability services sector as a career of choice. Efforts have included attending career fairs, presenting at the Saskatchewan Career and Work Education Association conference to build connections with the school system, and arranging television interviews with Access Cable and possibly others. For these interviews, we have provided a Q&A sheet that focuses the interview on working in this sector, and portions of the Realistic Job Preview video are shown. Thank you to the SARC Members who agreed to do these interviews in their communities!

For those Members who want to attend career fairs or explore other recruitment initiatives, the committee has created a brochure that can be emailed upon request. Please contact Melanie Weiss at mweiss@sarcan.sk.ca or 933-0616, ext. 245. In the near future, the committee hopes to have this brochure and other resources available through SARC’s website.

Realistic Job b Pr P eview Evallua uation The evaluation of the committee’s first project, the Realistic Job Preview Toolkit, is soon coming to a close. For those Members that signed up to participate in the one-year tracking process, the end date is December 31, 2011. Please ensure you submit your compiled information to Leanne Zacharias, SARC’s Facilitator of New Initiatives – Human Resources. If you have any questions, please contact Leanne at rrinitiatives@sarcan.sk.ca or 933-0616, ext. 221.

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Basic Skills Training On November 2-3, 2011, SARC provided the Basic Skills Training (BST) Train-the-Tutor Workshop to ten individuals from across the province. BST is a Saskatchewan-specific program that is designed to meet the needs of Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) in SARC Member Agencies and provide the Learner with the skills required to support people with disabilities. It has been used extensively in Saskatchewan and Alberta to provide DSPs with a basic understanding of the values, attitudes, and skills that are necessary to promote choices, independence, and quality life experiences for the individuals they support. Once Learners have completed BST, they are awarded four course credits in the Disability Support Worker Certificate Program through SIAST. Tutors who successfully mentor two learners are able to apply for the Prior Learning Assessment Recognition (PLAR) for four course credits as well.

BST is often viewed as the first step to obtaining certification in SIAST’s Disability Support Worker Program. Learners are then encouraged to take the additional courses via Distance Education through SIAST to achieve their certificate.

Bursaries are available to cover the cost of the tuition for any of the courses offered in the Certificate program.

The individuals who took the workshop are now ready to go back to their agencies and begin training Learners inhouse to help build staff expertise and confidence.

Congratulations to the following individuals for successfully completing the BST Train the Tutor Workshop: Amanda Senft, Deer Park Villa, Inc. Carmen Cornish, Menno Homes of Saskatchewan, Inc. Charlotte Piche, Cosmopolitan Industries, Inc. Edna Hinz, Menno Homes of Saskatchewan, Inc. Kent Boehm, Ranch Ehrlo Society Leanne Moffat, Canadian Deafblind Association – SK Chapter Margaret Macleod, Variety Place, Inc. Martina Buchanan, Elmwood Residences Mary Jane Hastie, Ranch Ehrlo Society Shauna Carey-Grosse, Cosmopolitan Industries, Inc.

To learn more about Basic Skills Training and how the program can benefit your agency, please visit www.sarcsarcan.ca or contact Corinne Sonntag (csonntag@sarcan.sk.ca) or Mindy Bonderoff (mbonderoff@sarcan.sk.ca) or phone 933-0616.

On Site with Supported Employment Services As the vocational services division of the Saskatchewan Abilities Council, Partners in Employment offers a continuum of services to assist individuals of varying abilities to prepare for, obtain and maintain community employment.

Utilizing funding through the Supported Employment Transition Initiative (SETI), Partners’ Regina Branch has enhanced its support services with the addition of a full time Job Coach / Maintenance Coordinator.

Bevan Nye dove into action in April, 2011, and has positively impacted the vocational development of 14 individuals in short order. As the Job Coach / Maintenance Coordinator, Bevan provides intensive on site job coaching for individuals with cognitive challenges as they transition into the work force.

As coaching supports fade, maintenance supports are put in place to ensure the needs of the individual and their employers are continually being met.

Bevan embodies the values of the Abilities Council and has quickly earned the respect of his peers and community associates with his “right job, right time, right supports” approach. Please welcome Bevan to our team!

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For more information on upcoming Professional Development opportunities, please visit our on-line Events Calendar at www.sarcsarcan.ca or contact Mindy Bonderoff, SARC’s Facilitator of Training and Education, at mbonderoff@sarcan.sk.ca.

Transf Tr sfer Lift Repo posi siti tion (TLR) ©:: TLR is designed to help agency staff identify and manage risks associated with client handling and moving objects. The program includes a thorough assessment process of self, environment/equipment, and client/ object. TLR is developed to assist licensees with meeting minimum requirements of OH&S Legislation related to safe patient handling and musculoskeletal injuries. Two three-day sessions have been coordinated in both Regina and Saskatoon. The Regina dates are January 16-18, 2012 and May 23-25, 2012. The Saskatoon dates are January 2325, 2012 and February 15-17, 2012. Thanks to provincial training funds, this event has a low fee of $50.

Duty y to Acccomodate Worrkshop p:

SARC Spring Conference

2012

will learn about the resources, standards,

Supervisors and managers are often required and recommended practices that human

to determine a reasonable accommodation in consultation with the employee and, if appropriate, the union. It is ideal for human resource professionals, supervisors, and managers that are either directly involved in, or provide advice regarding the grievance/ complaint/dispute resolution process.

Information regarding the arbitration process in a union workplace will also be included. This workshop provides the attendees with background information and procedural and legal requirements to determine a reasonable accommodation.

The workshop begins with a review of the technical aspects of the accommodation process, such as, but not limited to: The Duty to Accommodate, Factors to Determine a Reasonable Accommodation, and Obtaining Appropriate Medical Documentation. This workshop occurs on January 25 at the Travelodge Hotel in Regina.

Sttaffing g Workssho h p: Staffing is the most important process that an employer conducts. Employees put a face on and carry out the day-to-day tasks of the organization. Supervisors and managers carry out this task. Attendees

watch for promotional on our website in the New Year.

resource professionals utilize to provide advice to supervisors and managers so they Basi s c Em Empl ployee plo ee//Labou ur Re ela lattiion o s can make informed decisions that benefit fo or Su upe pervis isors and Mana ag ge errss: their employer’s operation. This workshop This seminar provides theory and occurs on January 26 at the Regina background information regarding the Travelodge Hotel. supervisor and manager’s rights and responsibilities in the workplace. The Great Sup pervision Leve el 2: 2 attendee will learn about resources, standards, and recommended practices that The follow-up course to November 2011’s Great Supervision Level 1, Great Supervision Human Resources professionals utilize to provide advice so they can make informed Level 2 will take place on February 13-14 decisions that benefit their employer’s at the Heritage Inn in Moose Jaw and February 15-16 at the Western Development operations. This workshop occurs on March 19 in Regina.

Museum in North Battleford. Thanks to provincial training funds, this event has a Interme edia ate Employe ee/La abou ur low fee of $50.

PART©: © PART is designed to help agency staff identify, and appropriately respond to, potentially assaultive situations. PART principles support the emphasis of selfcontrol, assessment skills, and verbal crisis intervention. A few scheduled PART Training session scheduled for November and January needed to be cancelled, but we have arranged for an additional session to be offered April 9-12 in Regina. Please

Relation ns for Supervis Su sors and Manage erss: This seminar provides theory and background information regarding the supervisor and manger’s rights and responsibilities in the workplace. It builds on the theories and practices learned in the Basic Seminar. The attendee will learn about resources, standards, and recommended practices that Human Resource professionals utilize to provide advice so they can make informed decisions that benefit their employer’s operations.

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Grand Opening Celebration SARCAN’s New Processing Plant Officially O Opens pens

S

ARCAN Recycling celebrated a milestone achievement in October 2011: The Grand Opening of Saskatoon’s new Processing Plant, located at 3720 Kochar Avenue in the recently developed Marquis Industrial Area.

The SARCAN Processing Plant celebration included an official ribbon-cutting ceremony, featuring Premier Brad Wall. “Our vision is that Saskatchewan will be the most inclusive place in Canada – for people of all ages who live with disabilities – with the best services and the best supports, the most dignity and the most opportunities, said Premier Brad Wall. “Supporting the work for SARC and SARCAN is just one way we are building to that goal.”

The new location better facilitates SARCAN’s volume increases. “When the previous plant opened 18 years ago, we were processing 73 million containers a year, and employed 23 people. Now we process two and a half times the containers and have double the employees. A new plant was necessary” said Kevin Acton, SARCAN’s Director of Operations.

“We are thrilled to celebrate this facility and further develop SARCAN’s Three E’s: Environmental Protection, Economic Diversification and Employment Creation”.

SARCAN has seen a 66% increa increase ease e in deposit beverage containers returned for recycling in the last decade. Additionally, paint and electronics recycling programs have both hit milestones this year, with over 20 million pounds of electronics and over a million cans of used paint diverted from Saskatchewan’s landfills. Saskatoon’s new processing plant will better accommodate this Glenn Awrey, Saskatoon Processing Plant Manager, Gives a tour of the new facility to Amy McNeil, SARC’s

“Whe en the pre evious plan nt

Executive Director, and Premier Brad Wall.

pened d 18 years ago, we op were e pro ocessing 73 millio on conttain ners a year, and ploy yed 23 pe eople e. Now emp we proccess two and a halff timess the containerrs and d ve do ouble the emp ployeess.” hav - Keviin Acton, SARCAN’ss Director off Operations

The Official Ribbon Cutting Ceremony featuring (L to R): Mike Siwy, SARCAN Employee; Kevin Acton, SARCAN Director of Operations; Amy McNeil, SARC/SARCAN Executive Director; the Honourable

type of growth.

Thanks, in part, to a $4 million capital grant through the Province of Saskatchewan’s Go Green Fund, SARCAN was able to build this plant focusing on environmental sustainability through energy efficiency, a low-flow water system, a thermal roof and wall system, and usage of recycled materials. “Over 13,000 tonnes of recycled glass, rubber and asphalt have been used in n construction”, Acton said.

Brad Wall, Premier of Saskatchewan; his Worship Don Atchison, Mayor of Saskatoon; Glenn Awrey, Saskatoon Processing Plant Manager; Darwyn Worsley, SARC Board of Directors President and Gus Schindel, SARCAN Employee.

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Each year, SARCAN Recycling recognizes the commitment of its long-term employees at the annual Employee Recognition Day. Service recognition is given to milestone achievements of five, 10, 15 and 20 years, as well as retirees. On October 27, 2011, 66 permanent employees from across the province were invited to the Travelodge Hotel in Regina to acknowledge their many years of service.

This year, nine casual employees achieved milestones and were honoured with certificates: Five Years of Service – Helen LeGresley, Mary Anne Calkin, Kevin Hastings, Noah Gmeinweser, Kevin Longeau, Carl Paulhus, and Jesse Green; 10 Years of Service – Martina Gillis; 15 Years of Service – Michael Gutting.

Five Year: Back(L-R): Todd Pidwerbesky, Christine Wilkinson, Randy Long, Patrick Wesaquate, Brad Seltzer, Justin Mutala. Mid (L to R): Wendy Miller, Brittany Losonsky-Prentice, Sherry Quon, Cecil Lefevre, Sandra Marcia, Colleen Fisher, Ashley Harmen. Front(L-R): Rosemary Kun, Christina Isaacs, Mindy Bonderoff.

15 Year : Back(L-R): Howard Burlock, Glenn Awrey, Russell Bachelder Front(L-R): Carolyn Dackow, Darlene Trithart, Jo-Anna Tataryn, Devon Ror, Joan Prentice.

10 Year: Back(L -R): David Gruben, Les Horvath, Luke Buffin, Clair Wingerter, Brian Lowe, Tim Stewart, Calvin Peterson, Larry Adair. Front (L -R): Christina Isaacs, Bobbie Poitras, Melanie Weiss, Amanada Losonsky-Prentice, Chantelle Diakuw.

20 Year: Back(L-R): Doug Runge, Marilynn Theriault, Sheldon Arlett, Blair England, Conrad Tuchscherer. Front : (L-R): Bob Shirley, Donna Moore, Bill Loveridge.

Th han nks to all lo ong-tterm m employees for con ntrrib buting to o the stre ength h of SARCAN N with teamwork k and dedicatio on.

Con ngrattulations to all award recipientss!

Retirees: Back (L-R): Robert Webster, Susan Arenesen, Donna Harbicht. Front (L-R): Peter Miller, Ken Homenick, Real Wolensky.

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SARC UPDATE WINTER 2011 MONTH 20XX CONTEMPORARY MAGAZINE

Update from: Payroll and Benefits 1

New Fund for SARC Pension Plan

In an effort to provide plan members with more choice and a conservative option with moderate growth opportunity, SARC has added a new fund to the pension plan. The Co-operators Canadian Fixed Income Fund is now available. During these times of ups and downs in the markets it is always best to have a balanced approach with pension plan investments or long term savings. Before making changes we suggest that employees review their investor profile and/or consult with a financial advisor to ensure they are in the investments that are right for them.

Employers or employees wishing to speak to someone about the new fund option or the pension plan can contact Glenn Le Drew at The Co-operators toll free at 1-877-347-6341 extension 607965. Please ensure you acquire the revised forms from the website and order new enrollment kits for any new enrollees, from Mary-Lou Foote (mary-lou_foote@ cooperators.ca),which will contain the latest information on the forms regarding the addition of the new fund.

2

Employment Insurance Premium Rates for 2012

On November 14, 2011, the Canada Employment Insurance Commission (CEIC) announced that the annual maximum insurable earnings (MIE) for 2012 will increase to $45,900 from $44,200.

2012: Maximum Insurable Earnings: $45,900; Employee Rate: 1.83%; Employee Maximum: $840; Employeer Maximum: $1,176 2011: Maximum Insurable Earnings: $44,200; Employee Rate: 1.78%; Employee Maximum: $786.76; Employeer Maximum: $1,101.46

3

(CPP) Contribution Rates for 2012

2011: Maximum Pensionable Earnings: $48,300; Basic Exemption: $3,500; Rate: 4.95%; Employee/Employer Maximum: $2,217.60 2010: Maximum Pensionable Earnings: $47,200; Basic Exemption: $3,500; Rate: 4.95%; Employee/Employer Maximum: $2,163.15 2009: Maximum Pensionable Earnings: $46,300; Basic Exemption: $3,500; Rate: 4.95% Employee/Employer Maximum: $2,118.60

4

Changes to TD1 and TD1SK Forms for 2012

Each year, certain personal income tax and benefit amounts are indexed to inflation using the Consumer Price Index data as reported by Statistics Canada. Increases to tax bracket thresholds, amounts relating to non refundable credits, and most other amounts will take effect on January 1, 2012.

However, increases to the Canada Child Tax Benefit (including the National Child Benefit Supplement and the Child Disability Benefit) and the goods and services tax credit will take effect on July 1, 2012, to coincide with the beginning of the program year for payment of these benefits.

2012: TD1 Basic Personal Amount: $10,822; TD1SK Basic Personal Amount: $14, 492 2011: TD1 Basic Personal Amount: $10,527; TD1SK Basic Personal Amount: $14,535

5

Changes to CPP Contribution Rules

Current rules: Under the current rules, as an employer you have to stop deducting CPP contributions from an employee’s pensionable earnings when the employee is 60 to 70 years of age and gives you proof that he or she is receiving CPP or QPP retirement pension (for example, an award letter issued by HRSDC).

New rules: Starting January 1, 2012, you may have to deduct CPP contributions from the The Canada Revenue Agency announced that pensionable earnings you pay an employee the maximum pensionable earnings under who is 60 to 70 years of age, even if the Canada Pension Plan (CPP) for 2012 will the employee is receiving a CPP or QPP be $50,100—up from $48,300 in 2011. retirement pension. Under the new rules, an 2012: Maximum Pensionable Earnings: employee who works and receives a CPP or $50,100; Basic Exemption: $3,500; Rate: QPP retirement pension will now have to 4.95%; Employee/Employer Maximum:

contribute to the CPP if he or she is 60 to 65 unless the employee has filed an election with you or another employer to stop paying CPP contributions (the election will take effect on the first day of the month following the month the employee provides you with a completed and signed election form); 65 to 70 years of age, if the employee revoked his or her election to stop CPP contributions in 2013 or later.

These legislative amendments do not affect the salary or wages of an employee who is considered to have a disability under the CPP or QPP, or a person who has reached 70 years of age. Do not deduct CPP contributions from the salary and wages that you pay these employees.

You will have to deduct CPP contributions from an employee who is employed in pensionable employment and is receiving pensionable earnings, who is currently receiving a CPP or QPP retirement pension and is 60 to 65 years of age, even if it means deducting from someone who was not contributing in a previous year because he or she was receiving a CPP/QPP retirement pension, or, a person who is currently receiving a CPP or QPP retirement pension and is 65 to 70 years of age, and who has not given you a copy of a signed and completed Form CPT30, Election to Stop Contributing to the Canada Pension Plan, or Revocation of a Prior Election.

Note: The CRA can assess you for failing to deduct CPP contributions or for failing to remit the CPP contributions to the CRA as required. The assessment may include penalty/interest charges.

Starting dates for implementing Form CPT30: If, in December 2011, an employee is at least 65 years of age and receiving a CPP or QPP retirement pension and does not want to start contributing to CPP in January 2012, then that employee should make his or her election to stop contributing to CPP by providing a copy of a signed and completed Form CPT30 to you and any other employer as early as possible iand send the original form to the CRA. For more information regarding the above changes to CPP, please visit the website listed below: www.cra-arc.gc.ca/tx/bsnss/tpcs/pyrll/ clcltng/cpp-rpc/cppchng-wh-eng.html

SARC20XX UPDATE WINTER CONTEMPORARY MAGAZINE MONTH 16 2011

15

Important Announcement from Butler Byers Insurance Your team at BB would like to inform all participating Members of the SARC-facilitated Program that we just recently conducted our market review to ensure that premiums and coverage we offer are presently the best out there. This marketing survey is done every 3 years. This year we approached 14 markets. Our negotiations revealed very favourable results; we are pleased to announce the following for the 2012 renewal term:

• Rate reductions will be applied to the Property and General Liability sections of your insurance portfolio. The savings will vary from Member to Member depending on the loss history for each location.

• As this is a Group Program, the Included Coverage Extensions are continually being enhanced based on the requirements of our members and there have been improvements throughout 2011 • Policies already include under the property section the “Residential Health Care Property Endorsement” which provides up to $5,000 property coverage for each Group Home resident.

• A New Coverage effective January 1, 2012 is provided as a Liability Extension and is referred to as the “Resident Health Care Facility Extension”. This coverage expands on the existing coverage provided for a medical incident. It broadens the scope of coverage applicable to the providing or dispensing of medications including the following: food or beverages; medical supplies; medical appliances.

• This coverage extends to include Employees, Qualified Volunteers and Students in Training but NOT Professional Doctors or Nurses.

• Abuse Option: An increase from $1,000,000 to a $2,000,000 limit can be provided for an additional cost.

Most insurance companies are unable to provide this specialized coverage and, if possible, can only offer minimum limits.

Additional Options: • Participation in the Provincial Non-Profit Director’s and Officer’s Liability Program available to all SARC Members.

• Educational moves for the Board of Directors for Property and Liability, as well as Director’s and Officer Programs.

Terry Welch was a Member of the SARC Board of Directors from 2009-2011 and was the President of BTEC from 20042009.

The Butler Byers Team that works with SARC Member Agencies: Back (L to R): Kathie Cummine, Amber Findlay, Lynn Cross , Front (L to R): Doug Cummine, Hernard Chan

Ken Homenick Retirement - August

Five Billion Containers Recycled - April Amazing Race

Supported Employment Conference - March

Team Building Event – Septembe

Martensville SARCAN Grand Opening - February

New Processing Plant – Constructed Throughout 2011

New Processing Grand Opening - October

McGuire Award Winners - June

Bridging the Gap First Graduating Class - July

Thanks for an Amazing 2011!

Happy Holidays From

SARC and SARCAN Recycling!

Re eturn und ndellive erable able e to: Sa askatcche ewa an Asso ssocia iation n of Rehabilittatio on Cen ntres 1111 Card dina al Cre escen e t Sask kato t on to n, SK S7H H 6L5 L55 Ph hone:: (30 06)) 9333-0616 Em mail: conta t ct@ @sar @s a can n..sk sk.cca

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