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Gentle Teaching Stories: “Gentle Teaching provides an environment that allows everyone to be themselves.”

You are here: Home1 / Our Stories2 / Blog3 / Gentle Teaching Stories: “Gentle Teaching provides an environment...

Gentle Teaching Stories:

Gentle teaching is important because it provides an environment that allows everyone to be themselves.

September 28, 2023/inBlog, Employment, Gentle Teaching, Stories

When I first started supporting at Creative Options Regina, the idea of creating and maintaining a culture of gentleness with the individuals I was to serve was something I was extremely nervous about. Looking back, I am not sure why. The guys I support have made the approach of Gentle Teaching extremely easy. While this practice isn’t something that can be considered a lock-step matter and there certainly aren’t any fixed answers for certain situations, creating a culture of gentleness to me involves creating a relationship based on unconditional love. Having the opportunity to hang out and learn about the three guys I support, along with engaging with all of their interests on a weekly basis has allowed me to develop true ever-lasting friendships with each of the guys.

Gentle Teaching is important because it provides an environment that allows everyone to be themselves. It is a hands-on approach that has allowed me to change internally and spiritually. The opportunity to provide care for these individuals in their physical, intellectual and emotional needs has given me a new perspective on not only my career in education, but also daily life. When I began creating a culture of gentleness, I found the trust that I placed in the individuals I support was reciprocated. This brought a new meaning to me as an individual, as I now found myself transforming into someone who looked to promote a similar culture of gentleness with everyone around me.

To maintain this relationship I have built with the individuals I serve, I continuously set out to achieve their own personal goals that they have set. Working through these goals has only strengthened my relationship with each individual that I support. Whether it be writing skills, weight loss/exercise or healthier eating it is always great to see the progress each individual has while striving for their goals. As I continue to serve these individuals I am beginning to see the development of interdependence, the encouragement of creativity and a shared trust that is forming between us.

Listening to the individuals I serve, being able to empathize with them and having an awareness of their needs allows me to support them to the best of my ability. As I continue my education at the University of Regina and continue to support through COR, I will continually look for opportunities to promote a culture of gentleness.

Matt

COR Family Member

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Congratulations to the 2025 Young Person of Pride Award Recipient, Robin Robertson. 

COR is a proud sponsor of this annual award at the @queencitypride Awards Gala! Robin, you are a spark of change, a voice of truth, and a reminder of what’s possible when we lead with heart.

At COR, diversity is in our blood, and inclusion is our heartbeat. With over 15% of our 400+ person team proudly identifying as part of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, we don’t just welcome queerness, we celebrate it. Loudly. Daily. Joyfully.

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That’s what we see in this year’s honouree: someone who embodies these values not just in who they are, but in everything they do.

Congratulations!🎉 You make Regina proud. And at COR, we are proud to stand with you.

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On Friday, we stood among Modern Warriors. 💛
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📅 Save the Date!
We’re excited to announce that the 2025 Prairie Sexuality & Disability Conference (PSDCON) is on the horizon!

🗓️ Dates: October 29–30, 2025
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Join us for two inspiring days of learning, connection, and celebrating the diverse experiences of sexuality and disability. Tickets aren’t on sale just yet, but you can sign up now to be the first to know!! Space is limited!

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We’re proud to share that COR has been named recipient of the 2025 Safe Employer Award by the @saskwcb and WorkSafe Saskatchewan!

This honour reflects the unwavering commitment of our 400+ compassionate caregivers who nurture a culture of belonging—not only for the people we support, but within our own diverse and inclusive teams across Regina.

Caring for the caregiver is essential to ensuring the well-being of the people we support. By fostering strong relationships, promoting a supportive work culture, and prioritizing psychological safety, our team leads with empathy, respect and a deep sense of community.

Thank you to our incredible team for making COR a place where everyone can feel safe, supported, and valued. You make this recognition possible. 💙

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To every Support at COR — thank you. This week was just a small glimpse into the heart you bring to your work. We’re grateful for each and every one of you.

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Rounding out our Disability Support Professionals Week features is Alvy Chowdhury — a Support at COR for just over a year, known for his uplifting spirit and commitment to meaningful connection. 💙

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Clarence chose this photo because it reminds him of exactly that: the smiles, the comfort, and the joy that comes from being treated with the care and respect every person deserves.

We’re so lucky to have you, Clarence. Thanks for all the heart you bring. 💙

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