Proud to be Recognized as a Saskatchewan Top Employer (2025) for an 8th Year!

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With job security and a stable economy, Saskatchewan employers offer more than just peace of mind: ‘Saskatchewan’s Top Employers’ for 2025 are announced.

REGINA, February 4, 2025 – With a strong economy that’s resilient in the face of economic headwinds, Saskatchewan has long been an attractive place to work and live. Employers in the province are raising the bar by providing employees with better family-friendly benefits and skills upgrading that will help them succeed as technology advances rapidly. The best of these
initiatives were recognized this morning as Saskatchewan’s Top Employers (2025) was announced by Mediacorp Canada Inc., organizers of the annual Canada’s Top 100 Employers project.

“Economies that go through dramatic boom and bust cycles are usually the ones we read about in the news, but it’s places like Saskatchewan — with its reliable and steady economic growth — that provides true peace of mind to employees,” says Richard Yerema, executive editor at the Canada’s Top 100 Employers project. “Employees value the security that comes with being able to count on a reliable employer and feeling confident that your livelihood — and the life you’ve built for your family — is secure.”

The employers chosen as this year’s Saskatchewan’s Top Employers distinguish themselves with strong support for family-friendly benefits, as well as ensuring their employees receive the training and development they need to succeed. From tuition subsidies to in-house skills improvement programs, this year’s winners understand that a skilled workforce is essential as
technology advances at an ever-faster rate.

“Economic stability and a long history of steady growth: that’s the story of Saskatchewan,” adds Yerema. “People attracted to the province’s affordability and high standard of living, while building a career at an employer that cares about their family and future. The employers on this year’s list know that job security means income security, where employees can have confidence that the resources they depend upon, and the things they’ve earned through hard work, won’t be taken from them by a sudden economic downturn.”

Now in its 20th year, Saskatchewan’s Top Employers is a special designation that recognizes the employers that lead their industries in offering exceptional places to work. Editors at Mediacorp review employers on eight criteria, which have remained consistent since the project’s inception:

(1) Workplace; (2) Work Atmosphere & Social; (3) Health, Financial & Family Benefits; (4) Vacation & Time Off; (5) Employee Communications; (6) Performance Management; (7) Training & Skills Development; and (8) Community Involvement. The editors publish detailed ‘reasons for selection’ explaining why the winners were chosen, providing transparency in the selection of winners and a catalogue of best practices for employers and job-seekers alike. The competition is open to any employer, private or public sector, with its head office or principal place of business in Saskatchewan.

Founded in 1992, Mediacorp Canada Inc. is the nation’s largest publisher of employment periodicals. Since 1999, the Toronto-based publisher has managed the Canada’s Top 100 Employers project, which includes 19 regional and special-interest editorial competitions that reach millions of Canadians annually through a variety of magazine and newspaper partners, including The Globe and Mail. Mediacorp also operates Eluta.ca, one of Canada’s largest job search engines, used by millions of job-seekers annually to find new job postings and discover what the nation’s best employers are offering.

The full list of Saskatchewan’s Top Employers (2025) was announced today in a special magazine published online in the Regina Leader-Post and Saskatoon StarPhoenix, as well as on Eluta.ca. Detailed ‘reasons for selection’ for each of this year’s winners, including dozens of stories and photos about their initiatives, were released today by the editors and are accessible via the competition homepage.

Read the special magazine here. 

Saskatchewan’s Top Employers 2025 Winners

  • 3sHealth / Health Shared Services Saskatchewan, Regina
  • Access Communications Co-operative Ltd., Regina
  • BHP Canada Inc., Saskatoon
  • Canpotex Limited, Saskatoon
  • College of Registered Nurses of Saskatchewan, Regina
  • Cornerstone Credit Union Financial Group Ltd., Yorkton
  • Creative Options Regina, Inc., Regina
  • Croptimistic Technology Inc., Saskatoon
  • eHealth Saskatchewan, Regina
  • Information Services Corporation / ISC, Regina
  • ISM, Regina
  • Lakefield LLP, Saskatoon
  • Legal Aid Saskatchewan, Saskatoon
  • McDougall Gauley LLP, Saskatoon
  • Nutrien Ltd., Saskatoon
  • Ranch Ehrlo Society, Regina
  • Saskatchewan Apprenticeship and Trade Certification Commission, Regina
  • Saskatchewan Blue Cross, Saskatoon
  • Saskatchewan Crop Insurance Corporation / SCIC, Melville
  • Saskatchewan Indian Gaming Authority / SIGA, Saskatoon
  • Saskatchewan Polytechnic, Saskatoon
  • Saskatchewan Teachers’ Federation, Saskatoon
  • Saskatchewan Workers’ Compensation Board, Regina
  • Saskatoon, City of, Saskatoon
  • SaskEnergy Incorporated, Regina
  • SaskPower, Regina
  • SaskTel, Regina
  • Synergy Credit Union Ltd., Lloydminster
  • University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon
  • Vaderstad Industries Inc., Langbank

 

The Universal Longing for Belonging: Why Human Connection Matters, by Dr. Anthony McCrovitz

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In a world where people often feel disconnected, Dr. Anthony McCrovitz reminds us of an undeniable truth: a sense of belonging is a universal, human longing. During his presentation, “A Sense of Belonging Is a Universal, Human Longing and Needs a Human Connection,” Dr. McCrovitz explored the profound impact of belonging and connection on our lives and how fostering these bonds can lead to healing and growth.

The Core of Belonging: Feeling Safe and Loved

At the heart of belonging lies the foundational need to feel safe and loved. Dr. McCrovitz emphasized that true belonging requires creating spaces where people feel valued, respected, and free to express themselves without judgment. This isn’t just about offering physical safety; it’s about emotional and psychological security that allows individuals to trust and connect deeply with others.

He explained that belonging doesn’t demand perfection but instead invites authenticity and vulnerability. It’s about being seen and valued for who you truly are, imperfections and all.

Connection, Not Correction

Dr. McCrovitz introduced a transformative idea: “Focus on connection, not correction.” He argued that instead of trying to change or fix people, we should seek to understand their experiences and meet them where they are. Connection fosters trust and creates the foundation for meaningful relationships, while correction often leads to defensiveness and further disconnection.

This approach is particularly important when working with individuals who have experienced trauma. Belonging offers them a path to healing by providing a safe space where their voices are heard, and their experiences are validated.

The Psychology of Interdependence

Dr. McCrovitz explored the idea of interdependence—the recognition that we are all deeply connected and reliant on one another. True belonging happens when individuals feel they are part of a supportive community where their contributions matter, and their presence is appreciated.

This sense of interdependence fosters a culture of care and collaboration, reminding us that we thrive not in isolation but through relationships that nurture and empower us.

The Role of Moral Memories

One of the most impactful parts of Dr. McCrovitz’s presentation was his discussion of moral memories. These are the deep, meaningful experiences that shape our sense of self and connection to others. He highlighted the importance of creating new, positive moral memories to help individuals rewrite their narratives and overcome past pain.

By fostering moments of connection, kindness, and understanding, we can help others build a new framework for belonging and self-worth.

Belonging in Action: Practical Steps

Dr. McCrovitz encouraged caregivers, educators, and community leaders to actively cultivate belonging by:

1. Creating Safe Spaces: Ensure environments are welcoming, inclusive, and free of judgment.
2. Validating Voices: Listen to and affirm people’s experiences without trying to “fix” them.
3. Fostering Interdependence: Build communities where everyone feels valued and connected.
4. Inviting Vulnerability: Encourage open, honest communication to deepen relationships.

Focus on connection, not correction

Final Thoughts

Dr. McCrovitz’s message is clear: belonging is not a luxury—it’s a necessity for human well-being. By prioritizing connection over correction and embracing our shared humanity, we can create a world where everyone feels valued, supported, and truly seen.

As you go about your day, remember: the smallest act of kindness or acknowledgment can be the seed of belonging for someone else. Together, we can build communities that heal, empower, and inspire.

Let’s make belonging a priority—for ourselves and for each other.

Trivial is Transformational, by Connie Jones

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Trivial is Transformational.

As a philosophy, Gentle Teaching puts the onus on us to change how we interact in the little moments together, and to take those opportunities to remind people that they are safe with us, loved by us, and that they are good, just as they are. Full stop. That means we show love even in the face of violent behaviours, to see those outbursts for what they are: brokenness, and ultimately, to stop trying to ‘mend’ a broken brain but instead, go for the heart.

That’s what founder John McGee called us to be: Menders of broken hearts.

Tall order? Maybe. But maybe it just takes a moment.

Now that I’m a grannie, I sometimes feel the responsibility more heavily than ever to ensure that my grandkids won’t develop hearts that ever need mending. As a Gentle Teacher, I’m keenly aware that right now, my sweet littles are learning all about themselves through their interactions with the adults around them, including me. I can’t forget the significance of seemingly trivial moments together. What is the message beneath my words, when I speak to them? What tone do I intentionally take? How mindful am I of my pacing, intensity, and word choices so as to convey positivity and reduce anxiety? Do my eyes speak of love, even when the kiddos are wreaking havoc on the house, the furniture, or – god bless ‘em – the dogs? Does my presence give them a safe space to just be? And what about my hands? I mean, I just want to grab those kiddos and gobble zeeberts all over their bellies and tickle them until they squeal. But even these loving moments together could become overwhelming for them, and I need to remember to move into their spaces with a keen awareness that my presence is big in their little worlds.

Gentleness is powerful. It might have more transformative power in the small moments that form moral memory than vengeance against thine enemies ever could, because where vengeance is felt in the storm, gentleness is found in the calm.

Like when I sang to my granddaughter while combing her hair softly. Or when I don’t rush through daily chores but invite them to help choose their clothes for the day, or set the kitchen chairs up at the sink so we can play in the suds while washing dishes together. Or work out the zoomies by cranking some music and having a dance party in the living room. These seemingly mundane moments carry huge significance. So, while we do things together, I try to be very mindful of each of my tools.

I think that kiddos have just as much value in this world when they’re tiny as they’ll have when they’re  grown – even in those times when my little angels’ behaviour isn’t exactly congruent with their value. I think that above and beyond anything else, all kids need to be reminded of how good and lovable they are, just as they are. During the time that we spend together, I want my grandkids’ powerful brains and beautiful hearts to get one thing straight: When they’re with me, they’re safe. And they’re loved, just as they are. Full stop.

www.gentleteaching.com
www.gentleteaching.ca
www.coracademy.ca

Connie Jones is a certified Gentle Teaching Ambassador with Gentle Teaching Canada. She has a Master of Arts in Leadership, three grown kids and four grandchildren. She currently lives in Saskatchewan with her partner of 35 years, two dogs, and five unfinished manuscripts.

 

How Gentle Teaching Promotes Unity in Caregiving, by Charles Woodard, PhD

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In today’s world, where stress and disconnection seem to dominate, the concept of Gentle Teaching stands as a powerful reminder of the importance of unity, compassion, and connection in caregiving. Dr. Charles Woodard’s presentation, “Gentle Teaching Promotes Unity,” offered a heartfelt exploration of how this philosophy transforms relationships between caregivers and those they serve.

Unity: The Foundation of Gentle Teaching

Dr. Woodard highlighted that unity begins with a shared sense of purpose and mutual respect. It’s about recognizing, accepting, and appreciating the individuality of every person—caregivers, those being cared for, and the organizations that bring them together. At its core, unity is both a goal and a process, requiring unconditional love, collaboration, and understanding.

He emphasized the idea of “team” as an acronym: Together Each Achieves Much. This simple yet profound concept illustrates how working together in harmony can make even the biggest tasks manageable.

Unconditional Love as a Catalyst for Unity

Gentle Teaching is rooted in the belief that unconditional love is the highest form of care. According to Dr. Woodard, this love is kind, compassionate, and nurturing—it helps caregivers identify and meet the unique needs of others. But unconditional love must start within. Dr. Woodard shared the importance of “filling your own love tank” through positive self-talk and self-care, reminding us that caregivers can only give love if they have it themselves.

The Tools of Gentle Teaching

To foster unity, Gentle Teaching relies on four primary tools:
1. Words: Words have the power to hurt, heal, and connect. Dr. Woodard encouraged caregivers to use affirming, uplifting language, both with others and with themselves.
2. Presence: A caregiver’s demeanour and energy can create an environment of safety and trust. Being fully present and approachable sets the tone for meaningful connections.
3. Hands: A gentle, respectful touch can communicate safety and love, especially for individuals who may have experienced negative interactions in the past.
4. Eyes: A warm and compassionate gaze shows acceptance and care, allowing caregivers to truly see beyond a person’s behaviours to their underlying needs.

Charles Woodard

Why Unity Matters in Caregiving

Unity isn’t just a nice idea—it’s a practical tool that makes caregiving more effective and fulfilling. Dr. Woodard explained that when caregivers feel united and supported, they’re better equipped to withstand stress, navigate challenging situations, and provide consistent, loving care. Unity creates a ripple effect, building stronger relationships and fostering a culture of mutual respect.

Key Takeaway: Be What You Expect to See

Dr. Woodard closed his presentation with a powerful message: “Be what you expect to see.” If you want to see love, be loving. If you want to see respect, be respectful. Gentle Teaching is not just a technique; it’s a way of being. It asks caregivers to embody the values they wish to see in their interactions, creating a space where unity can flourish.

Final Thoughts

Dr. Woodard’s insights remind us that caregiving is more than a task—it’s a relationship. By embracing the principles of Gentle Teaching, caregivers can create an environment where unity, love, and mutual respect thrive, ultimately improving the lives of everyone involved.

Whether you’re a professional caregiver, a parent, or simply someone who values connection, the philosophy of Gentle Teaching offers a guide for building stronger, more compassionate relationships in all aspects of life.

Recognized by Excellence Canada as a Healthy Workplace Month Great Employer

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COR is proud to be named a 2024 Canada’s Healthy Workplace Month Great Employer, by Excellence Canada. 

In a letter from Sean Slater, President, Excellence Canada, COR was commended for our efforts to nurture a physically and psychologically safe workplace:

Congratulations on prioritizing the vital work of nurturing a physically and psychologically safe and healthy workplace and for the commendable actions you are taking as an employer to achieve it. Our adjudication team was impressed with your work in the following key areas of focus:

  • Physical Health
  • Mental Health
  • Social Health
  • Community

 

 

Excerpt from Excellence Canada’s Official Announcement:

We’re excited to celebrate this year’s amazing organizations that have gone the extra mile to make their workplaces healthy, safe, and welcoming for everyone. These award winners have shown real leadership in creating environments where both physical and mental well-being are top priorities. Their efforts stand out accross the four pillars of workplace wellness, and it’s inspiring to see how they’re making a difference for their teams everyday.

Kudos to all the recipients– you’re setting an awesome example for workplaces across Canada!

View the full list of 2024 Award Recipients.

 

Nethmi’s Story: Nothing can beat a good Sri Lankan rice and curry

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Nethmi joined COR in 2023. Originally from Sri Lanka, she moved to Regina to pursue her Bachelor in Social Work at the University of Regina.  Sri Lanka is a beautiful island in South Asia, which is known for its stunning landscape and diverse culture. It’s also famous for Ceylon tea! Sri Lankan hospitality is known for its warmth and genuine kindness. Visitors are often welcomed with open arms into homes, where sharing a meal is a cherished tradition. From rice and curry combinations to street food like hoppers (pancakes) and kottu roti (chopped roti with vegetables and meat), each bite tells a story of heritage and regional diversity.

Nethmi took a leap of faith to immigrate to Canada after several conversations and research about Canada with her husband. What attracted them to choose Canada were the many opportunities offered to immigrants. Canada is also known for offering high quality education and research opportunities.

Nethmi arrived to Canada alone and her husband came after. Nethmi confessed that coming to Canada on her own without any support system was very challenging. “It was winter when I arrived and coming to a new country without any friends or family wasn’t easy at all! I still remember how I called back home and told them that I wanted to go back home on the first night,” shared Nethmi.

Like many who make Saskatchewan their home, the biggest cultural shock is indeed the cold weather. Nethmi really struggled with the climate, sharing that she was not equipped for the Canadian winter. The clothes she brought from Sri Lanka were simply not good enough for the cold weather.

Nethmi expressed that she felt homesick and really missed her country, mainly her family and friends. She also missed Sri Lankan food. She is always looking forward to visit her home country for a vacation in order to indulge in the cultural food. “Nothing can beat a good Sri Lankan rice and curry,” Nethmi shared proudly.

Despite the cultural shock and the challenges that come with immigrating to a new country, Nethmi said that immigrating to Canada was the best decision for her husband and herself. “It is nice to be independent, it wasn’t easy, but it is worth it. I learned so many things and it’s a new experience and a good place for my personal growth. The opportunity for me to pursue a better education with greater career opportunities will help me to have a good quality of life,” shared Nethmi.

Canadians are recognised for their sense of hospitality and their friendly nature. Nethmi shared that one thing she loved was how welcoming and friendly people are in Canada. She said she feels more freedom to do whatever she wants to, without people’s judgement.

Nethmi confessed that after learning about Gentle Teaching, she felt compelled to apply to work at COR. While doing her research about COR, she knew that she wanted to be part of our organization. “Within a culture of gentleness, the relationship with individuals supported becomes more genuine and trusting. The connection becomes more emotional, rather than control. And something I’ve learned is the more the individuals trust you, the relationship grows. Gentle Teaching also emphasizes to support poeple with unconditional respect,” said Nethmi.

Asked about what traditions and celebration she likes in Canada, Nethmi shared that Christmas has been really meaningful to her. “Even though myself being a Buddhist, Christmas also had been a celebration where everyone comes together in the spirit of sharing. Being in Canada, I have celebrated Christmas once and it was amazing to be together with friends. I love Christmas shopping and sending little gifts to my family and friends. That’s one of my favourite things to do during the Christmas season.”

Thank you Nethmi for choosing Saskatchewan and for choosing COR. We are grateful to have you a part of the COR family.

Recipient of the 2024 Canadian Workplace Well-Being Award

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Celebrating the CWWA 2024 Winners!

The Canadian Positive Psychology Association (CPPA) and Workplace Strategies for Mental Health with Mary Ann Baynton are thrilled to announce the 2024 Canadian Workplace Well-Being Awards winners.

This award program recognizes and celebrates outstanding achievements in Canadian organizations that strengthen workplace well-being, employee mental health and psychological safety. The CPPA encourages organizations to integrate the principles and evidence-based practices of positive psychology into their HR strategy to support employee engagement, employee satisfaction and retention.

“The judging panel of ten experts in positive psychology and well-being were extremely impressed with the innovative programs, resources and support networks created by the 2024 winning organizations to foster employee mental health, well-being and sense of belonging”, says Louisa Jewell, President and Founder of the Canadian Positivity Association. “What is striking is the deep level of commitment to support employees to feel heard and understood when it comes to their well-being at work”, Jewell adds.

Some key patterns emerged amongst the winning organizations. Here are a few standouts:

  • They take a strategic approach where well-being and psychological safety is part of their organizational HR Strategy;
  • They invest in providing supports, enhanced mental health benefits and resources to help employees proactively manage their psychological health; and
  • They are intentional about creating a culture where there is trust, and employees feel heard, cared for, valued, and have a sense of belonging.

Here are the 2024 Canadian Workplace Well-Being Winners: (CWWA Awards) 

Nonprofit/Charity Sector

Canuck Place Children’s Hospice (Vancouver, BC)

Creative Options Regina (Regina, SK)

Kids Help Phone (Toronto, ON)

Small Private/Public Sector

Sklar Wilton and Associates (Toronto, ON)

Large Private/Public Sector

Best Buy (Vancouver, BC)

First West Credit Union (Langley, BC)

Metrolinx (Toronto, ON)

TransLink (Vancouver, BC)

 

The panel of expert judges for the 2024 Canadian Workplace Well-Being Awards included:

Shelly Bischoff, Workplace Consultant, Founder & Director, Ptolemy & Associates Inc.;

Dr. Marie-Hélène Budworth, Associate Professor, School of Human Resources Management, York University;

Dr. Elaine Cook, Manager, Humanistic Education and Training, Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital;

Lorie Corcuera, Director, Learning & Development, MineSense Technologies;

Carrie Fletcher, Executive Vice President, People Culture & Strategy, St. Joseph’s Health System;

Rob Francis, Founder & Principal Consultant, Francis Organizational Consultants;

Jon Rosemberg, Founder & CEO, Strongpoint Group;

Sylvie Santoro, Senior Director of People & Culture, Datavalet Technologies – Montreal;

Andrew Soren, CEO & Founder, Eudaimonic by Design, and

Paula Toledo, Well-being Consultant & Artist Ode to Wonder.

 

Learn more about the CWWA’s.

Japleen’s Story: My involvement with COR has truly enriched my life

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Japleen Kaur immigrated to Canada from Chandigarh, India in 2022. Chandigarh is the capital of the northern Indian state of Punjab and Haryana. Picturesquely located in the foothills of the Shivaliks, it is known as one of the best experiments in urban planning and modern architecture of the twentieth century in India.

Japleen set her eyes on Canada to pursue her education as her brother, Param, was already in Canada.  She also choose Canada for the breathtaking natural beauty and vibrant multicultural atmosphere.

Like thousands of immigrants that choose Canada to settle down, Japleen shares that she wanted to be in a place where she could learn from diverse cultures and meet people from all around the world.  “Knowing my brother was here, made the thought of adjusting much easier, as I would have a piece of family close by. Also, I knew that Canada respects Registered Nurses (RNs) and offers a manageable patient-to-nurse ratio, which was a significant factor for me since I had worked as an RN in India for about two years and the work pressure there was overwhelming. I believed that moving to Canada would allow me to pursue my passion for nursing in a more supportive environment,” said Japleen.

Japleen’s strong educational background helped her secure admission into a one-year postgraduate certificate programme in Gerontology at a college in Toronto. Japleen is convinced that the quality of education and the opportunities she has found here make it all worthwhile. “Navigating the lengthy immigration process and formalities was made easier with some guidance and a lot of determination” shared Japleen.

Japleen shared that there were definitely a few surprises when she moved from Chandigarh to Canada. “One of the biggest cultural shocks was how different social interactions are here. People in Canada are more individualistic and casual in their relationships, which is quite different from the community-oriented and formal interactions I was used to back home,” said Japleen. She also shared that another thing that caught her off guard was the level of politeness and patience in everyday situations—like how people form orderly lines and wait for their turn while grocery shopping.

The cold weather was also a big cultural shock for Japleen. “Coming from a place with mild winters, dealing with the extreme cold here was (and still is) a major adjustment. On the positive side, I’ve found Canadians to be incredibly friendly and welcoming, which has really helped me feel more at home despite the cultural differences” shared Japleen.

Japleen was introduced to COR by her brother, Param.

“My journey to COR has been incredibly positive. It has provided me with a sense of community and support that has been helpful in my adjustment to life in Canada. I love COR because, at the end of the day, I feel like I’ve made a difference in someone’s life, which not many jobs offer. I feel appreciated and valued, and I am grateful to be part of the COR family,” shared Japleen.

Japleen also shared that she has been experiencing personal growth and feels like a completely different person than she was a year ago. “My involvement with COR has truly enriched my life, and I’m excited about what the future holds for me”, shared Japleen.

Japleen also confessed that working at COR has its own benefit. She shared that she is a very quiet person and social interactions sometimes gives her anxiety, but at COR, she feels more at ease because everyone is so kind and appreciative, which significantly reduces her anxiety. “I feel like I’m getting better, if not the best, learning each day through my journey at COR”, shared Japleen.

Living far from family also comes with its own challenges, Japleen shared. “The sense of isolation and the lack of immediate support are much tougher than I had imagined. There were some extremely difficult days when I was living in Toronto all by myself. Having family around makes a huge difference, and it’s something I deeply miss.”

Asked if she would choose Canada all over again, Japleen replied positively. “I’d choose Canada all over again – despite the challenges, I am determined to become a Registered Nurse (RN) here, and I believe Canada offers the best opportunities to achieve this dream. My journey has been tough, but I’m confident it will be worth it in the end. The education, professional opportunities, and support I’ve found here are unmatched,” shared Japleen.

Thank you, Japleen, for choosing Canada and COR. You make a difference every day and we are proud of you.

Sohani’s Story: Kindness Makes a Difference

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Sohani Shaikh was born in the dynamic city of Anand, Gujarat, known as the “Milk city of India”. The region is renowned for more than just milk production. It is also home to the world’s largest statue, the Statue of Unity, a symbol of pride and unity. In August 2023, Sohani moved from India to Regina in order to pursue her education.

Through her studies in the Disability Support Worker program at Saskatchewan Polytechnic,  Sohani met COR’s Employee Experience Advisors during an in-class presentation. Sohani expressed that she felt the need to to be part of COR when she heard about COR’s central purpose. Program instructors encouraged her to apply to complete her practicum with COR — she was successful in also becoming an employee as well! During her practicum, Sohani expressed that she learned so much and accredits her good grades to the experience and training she received from COR.

Sohani recently completed her program, receiving her Disability Support Worker Certificate. She is proud of the knowledge she has learned and the difference she is making in the lives of individuals with disabilities. Sohani said she chose Canada to complete her education as Canada has a good educational system and there are many great opportunities available.

Like many new immigrants, everything is not always sunshine and roses! Sohani said her biggest culture shock was the cold weather — she has never experienced that type of cold winter back home. She also said that coming here as a young adult makes her miss her family a lot. Before coming to Canada, she had never lived alone. “I didn’t even know how to cook when I came here. But I am proud of myself for taking this opportunity to become more independent. I am also mentally and emotionally stronger than before,” said Sohani.

She also shared that she was fortunate to have her brother here in Regina. He helped her a lot in settling in to her new life in Regina. “My instructors at Saskpolytech were also very supportive and I could count on them when I had questions or needed help.” Sohani shared that she misses the street food in India. “While we have a variety of restaurants in Regina, street food comes with its own flavour and it’s difficult to find the same type of food here in Regina.”

“Everyone at COR is very supportive. People treat me with kindness and are so welcoming. This makes a big difference to newcomers.”

Sohani shares that she feels privileged to work in an organization where the philosophy of Gentle Teaching is embedded at the core of everything we do.

“The culture of gentle teaching is very unique and when you start to practise it in your professional life, you see the need to have it in all aspects of one’s life. Practising Gentle Teaching is about creating long lasting relationships. When I see support workers that no longer work at COR come visit the people we support, and the love you see on everyone faces, it’s beautiful. Working at COR is more than just a job. It’s creating trusting relationships where everyone feels valued and appreciated. I also feel a sense of belonging as diversity is celebrated. For example, the celebration of Eid Ul Fitr at COR provides a place where people can come and celebrate with each other; meeting and sharing information, it makes the connection stronger. I feel included and like I belong here.”

Thank you, Sohani, for choosing to work at COR. We are grateful to have you a part of our organization and you make a difference just by being you.

Proud Host of the 2024 Gentle Teaching International Conference

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On October 1-3, 2024, COR proudly hosted the 2024 Gentle Teaching International (GTI) conference, the premier gathering of people from around the world committed to providing positive and proactive support in health, mental health, disability and educational sectors. This event marked the 23rd anniversary of the conference and brought together 400+ participants from across the world for over three-days. The conference presented a unique opportunity to learn about the research, best practices, case studies and lessons learned on creating and sustaining a culture of support for vulnerable populations in varied environments.

“Thank you to the many sponsors, supporters, volunteers, attendees, speakers and contributors. We are truly grateful for your support. GTI2024 was a tremendous success because of you!” – Michael Lavis, CEO

CTV News: Conference aims to care for vulnerable people

https://regina.ctvnews.ca/video/c3005374-conference-aims-to-care-for-vulnerable-people

CBC Radio: Non-profit brings Gentle Teaching to Saskatchewan

https://www.cbc.ca/listen/live-radio/1-66-the-morning-edition-sask/clip/16098819-non-profit-brings-gentle-teaching-saskatchewan