As the seasons change, ND Property Services (NDPS) is ready to change with them. “We’ve been very busy on the property maintenance side of things through the fall and winter,” explains Johanna Haines, Business Manager for New Directions. “We’ve already gotten quite a bit of interest for the spring and summer months so we’re really happy!”
Started as a social enterprise several years ago, NDPS was founded to create opportunities for those looking to obtain work experience in a compassionate and understanding environment. “Employees of NDPS have different needs and employment goals,” continues Haines. “They might need a bit of flexibility in the hours they work, for example. Or perhaps they need some extra one-to-one supervision on a job site before they can work independently.”
Individuals can earn an income, learn new skills, and most importantly, find a place where they feel they have a purpose and are a part of a team. “We have 16 individuals working for NDPS at the moment,” says Haines. “There is a wait list of people who want to get involved, but we have to balance that with market demand, of course.”
The good news is that the demand is strong and growing, Haines confirms. “During last year’s summer season, we were working on between 6 and 8 sites with our property maintenance division and completing between 120 to 160 service orders a month for lawn care.”
Réseau Compassion Network is proud to have partnered with New Directions on the endeavour just over a year and a half ago, an investment that has paid dividends for all. “We’ve been able to increase the number of job opportunities with the initiative,” says Haines. “Above and beyond those who are receiving services from New Directions, we have hired a few individuals from Sara Riel, and it has been great to see their enthusiasm and readiness to be part of the team. Watching this program grow has been really rewarding.”
“Individuals who work with us face marginalization and so knowing that they can be honest with us about what skills they need help with and what skills they want to grow, means a lot to them,” concludes Haines.
If you’d like to inquire about hiring New Directions Property Services for your lawn or maintenance needs, please phone 204-786-7052 or email NDPropertyServices@newdirections.mb.ca.
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