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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.

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.

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.

Recipient of Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce ABEX Non-Profit Impact Award (2024)

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On September 21, 2024, COR was named the inaugural recipient of the Non-Profit Impact Award at the 2024 Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce ABEX Award Celebration held in Saskatoon.

Saskatchewan Business Leaders Shine at the 2024 ABEX Awards Gala

September 21, 2024

Saskatoon, SK – The Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce the recipients of its 2024 ABEX Awards, celebrating the province’s most influential and impactful businesses. Hosted at TCU Place in Saskatoon on September 21, the gala brought together over 500 attendees to recognize the contributions of Saskatchewan’s businesses and leaders across various sectors.

The prestigious awards, presented by Conexus Credit Union, highlighted the outstanding achievements of Saskatchewan’s businesses, acknowledging their significant role in driving the province’s economic and community development. The Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce extends its gratitude to all sponsors, recipients, finalists, and attendees for making the 2024 ABEX Awards a memorable event.

2024 ABEX AWARD RECIPIENTS

  • Community Involvement Award, sponsored by Saskatchewan Blue Cross:
    NexGen Energy Ltd. (Vancouver/Saskatoon)
  • Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Award, sponsored by Nutrien:
    KDM Constructors (Yorkton)
  • Growth and Expansion Award, sponsored by PFM Capital Inc.:
    JS Truckmart (Estevan)
  • Innovation Award, sponsored by Saskatchewan Polytechnic:
    Ground Truth Agriculture (Regina)
  • New Venture Award:
    The Prairie Grazer (Saskatoon)
  • Non-Profit Impact Award, sponsored by Saskatchewan Pension Plan:
    Creative Options Regina (Regina)
  • Service Award, sponsored by KPMG LLP:
    Komfort Insulation Ltd. (Saskatoon)
  • Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award, sponsored by Cameco Corporation:
    Brianna Dellezay, Saskatchewan Behaviour Consulting (Saskatoon)
  • ABEX Business of the Year, sponsored by Grant Thornton LLP:
    JS Truckmart (Estevan)

SPECIAL AWARD RECIPIENTS

  • ABEX Business Leader of the Year, sponsored by the University of Regina:
    Gary Redhead, President and CEO, Redhead Equipment (Regina)
  • ABEX Community Leader of the Year, sponsored by FCC:
    Greg Yuel, Owner, President, and CEO, PIC Investment Group (Saskatoon)
  • Saskatchewan Business Hall of Fame Inductee:
    AGT Food and Ingredients (Davidson)
  • Roger Phillips Chamber Builder Award:
    Patricia Warsaba (Regina)

“The ABEX Awards have always been about recognizing the incredible talent and dedication within Saskatchewan’s business community. It’s inspiring to see how our award recipients are making a positive impact and setting new standards for excellence in their fields.”  – Prabha Ramaswamy, CEO of the Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce

 

Link to full article.

 

COR Receives HSLC Level 4 Certification – A National Standard For Health and Safety

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We are incredibly proud to have received our HSLC Level 4 Certification, a national standard for health and safety leadership! A HUGE thank you to Service Hospitality for their guidance throughout this journey. We are incredibly grateful for your support in strengthening our safety management system!

Read the below article published by Service Hospitality:

Crossing the Finish Line by Achieving HSLC Levels 3 & 4!

It is with great pleasure that we announce Creative Options Regina’s remarkable achievement inHSLC Levels 3 and 4! It is no small feat to achieve one HSLC level, and this organization completed two levels simultaneously—talk about something to celebrate!

Through determination, dedication, and wholehearted commitment, Creative Options Regina successfully completed a Health and Safety Scored Audit and established a comprehensive Health and Safety Management System. This system protects workers from physical and psychological hazards. Safety is not just a part of their organization; it is ingrained in their business operations.

Creative Options Regina leads by example in championing psychological health and safety, seamlessly embedding these values into its organizational culture. Understanding the direct link between employee well-being and the quality of care it provides, CEO Michael Lavis has placed a strong emphasis on promoting the health and wellness of its employees.

Service Hospitality is proud to have contributed to enhancing Creative Options Regina’s Safety Management System. We look forward to supporting their continued growth and retaining all levels of HSLC going forward.

🎉Congratulations to our Level 4 HSLC Recipient!

Link to Article on Service Hospitality Website.

COR recognized as one of Saskatchewan’s Top Employers (2024)

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Big city benefits, an affordable cost of living and time for life beyond the workplace: ‘Saskatchewan’s Top Employers’ for 2024 are announced

REGINA, March 12, 2024 – With its young and dynamic workforce, affordable cost of living and strong economy, Saskatchewan is increasingly identified as an ideal place to build a career with a healthy work-life balance. Employers in the province are responding by taking notice of the leading workplace initiatives and benefits from across the country to entice more people to province’s attractive labour market. The best of these stories were recognized today as Saskatchewan’s Top Employers (2024) were announced by Mediacorp Canada Inc., organizers of the annual Canada’s Top 100 Employers project.

“Saskatchewan has seen a steady increase in new residents, who are attracted to an affordable place where they can put down roots and improve their quality of life,” says Richard Yerema, executive editor at the Canada’s Top 100 Employers project. “Increasingly, your workplace is not limited by geography and Saskatchewan offers the perfect middle ground – literally and figuratively – between both ends of the country. It’s no surprise that people from across the country have identified Saskatchewan as an ideal place to have a satisfying career with a high quality of life.”

Saskatchewan is renowned for offering residents a healthy work-life balance, while providing the advantages of a growing economy. Employers in Saskatchewan have taken notice of the benefits and workplace programs offered elsewhere in Canada to ensure they are competitive nationally. This combination of top-notch benefits and workplace programs along with enviable lifestyle options beyond the workplace has helped this year’s winners attract and retain the talented employees they need to thrive.

“Feeling connected to others and experiencing a true sense of community is a huge part of the draw for Saskatchewan,” adds Yerema. “So many Canadians are searching for a place to live that’s affordable, while still offering the ability to build a fulfilling life outside the workplace. Winning employers in Saskatchewan understand these challenges and are focused on helping their employees achieve those dreams.”

Now in its 19th year, Saskatchewan’s Top Employers is a special designation that recognizes Saskatchewan employers that lead their industries in offering exceptional places to work. Editors at Mediacorp review employers on eight criteria, which have remained consistent since the2 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’ for these criteria, 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 with its head office or principal place of business located within the province of 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 (2024) was announced today in a special magazine co-published with the Saskatoon StarPhoenix and the Regina-Leader Post. Detailed ‘reasons for selection’ for each of this year’s winners, as well as stories and photos about their initiatives, were released today by the editors and are accessible via the competition homepage.

 

 

Saskatchewan’s Top Employers 2024 Winners

3sHealth / Health Shared Services Saskatchewan, Regina

Access Communications Co-operative Ltd., Regina

Andgo Systems, Saskatoon

Bourgault Industries Ltd., St. Brieux

Canpotex Limited, Saskatoon

Cornerstone Credit Union Financial Group Ltd., Yorkton

Creative Options Regina, Inc., Regina

eHealth Saskatchewan, Regina

First Nations Bank of Canada, Saskatoon3

Group Medical Services / GMS Insurance Inc., Regina

Information Services Corporation / ISC, Regina

ISM, Regina

Lakefield LLP, Saskatoon

Legal Aid Saskatchewan, Saskatoon

MLT Aikins LLP, Regina

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 Police Service, Saskatoon

SaskEnergy Incorporated, Regina

SaskPower, Regina

SaskTel, Regina

Synergy Credit Union Ltd., Lloydminster

Vendasta Technologies Inc., Saskatoon

Recipient of Outstanding Fieldwork Agency Award

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On Thursday, March 16, 2023, COR proudly received the Outstanding Fieldwork Agency Award at the University of Regina’s Faculty of Kinesiology and Health Studies 10th Annual Alumni and Awards Dinner.

 

Did you know COR has hosted over 20 UofR fieldwork students the past few years!?! We are thankful for our partnership and proud of all the students whom we have had the privilege of hosting!

 

Receiving the award on COR’s behalf was Ben Morris, Creative Director and Fieldwork Supervisor. In the words of Ben:

“It is my absolute pleasure to be able to be here and accept this award and acknowledgement on behalf of COR today! 

My name is Ben Morris and I am the Creative Director at Creative Options Regina. We support folks experiencing disability in our city to live a life that they choose, rather than one that is prescribed to them. Though the work we do and our approach to care is profound and different, I want to spend a the rest of my time acknowledging the people who help us do some of the mould breaking work that we do. The students.

Who helped COR develop a relationship with the City of Regina’s paratransit program that assists people wishing to transition from paratransit transportation to conventional City of Regina transit- a student did that – Will P. did that.

Who helped lay the groundwork for a financial literacy program specifically made for people experiencing disabilities – a student did that. Leo S. did that.

Who helped nurture a budding DJ’s musical ambitions and not only helped him create his own music, but also taught him to spin his own tracks on a real turn table – AND THEN two Years later collaborated with him again to play a real paid gig – a student did that. Kyle D. and Jordan W. did that.

Who helped me keep the lights on and create virtual programming for 250+ people to do while they were stuck in their homes during the pandemic? Students did that – Zoha M., Saad S., Loki S., Abby G., and Hanna H. did that!

And who helped raise all of these programs from the ashes once the pandemic ended? Students did that. Gowtham P., Amr E., and Ahmad H. did that.

Lastly,

Who helped me write this incredible speech?

A student did that.

When I think about a student’s time with us, whether short or long, I think about a bridge. This bridge that you build is a gateway to your future. But one of my favorite things that just organically seems to happen is that you invite us to come along with you on your journey across that bridge. Sometimes you stay with us through employment, but sometimes you become Doctors, or you build your own yoga studios. By inviting us across this bridge with you, you’re helping open up our world and make the spaces we frequent a little safer and a little brighter. We are now known and seen by you! You share in our stories and we in yours.

Team – It’s an honor to be here, but it’s a greater honor to share this acknowledgement with you – students.

Thank you for sharing your time with us!”

 

Prairie Sexuality and Disability Conference featured in SARC Update (Winter 2023)

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We are excited to share an article featured in the SARC Winter Update on the 2022 Prairie Sexuality & Disability Conference. We are still beaming with pride when thinking back to the event made possible because of all our incredible partners, sponsors, presenters, caterers, and resource distributors! We look forward to seeing everyone at our 2023 conference in Saskatoon. Stay tuned!

Globe and Mail Feature: Creative Options Regina takes a gentle approach

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This article appeared in the magazine announcing this year’s Canada’s Top 100 Employers winners, published November 18, 2022 in The Globe and Mail.

When Michael Lavis moved to Saskatchewan in 2009 to launch Creative Options Regina, Inc. (COR), a for-impact, charitable organization that provides support services for people experiencing disability, he was inspired by Gentle Teaching, a non-violent approach to supporting marginalized people. But it soon became clear that its concepts of companionship and community should be applied to everyone who works for COR and everything they do.

“We realized it needed to be woven through the fabric of the entire organization,” explains Lavis, COR’s co-founder and CEO. “So we switched from the idea of Gentle Teaching to what we refer to as a culture of gentleness. And we call it that because we’ve applied it across our organization, to all our processes and practices.”

COR employees support hundreds of people living with a wide range of disabilities and complex conditions across Regina. “It became key to start with the caregivers, the people who provide that support,” Lavis says. “Caregiving is an incredibly difficult job, and we needed to ensure that they were feeling safe, valued, respected and cared for.”

That meant creating a supportive community by providing multiple ways for employees to connect, communicate and get help when they need it. They are offered extensive training in the principles of Gentle Teaching, as well as first aid, stress management, suicide alertness, crisis prevention and a host of other skills.

“This sector is defined by high turnover, burnout and little to no training, which is unfortunate,” says Lavis. “But when you invest in people, it’s a valuable investment and it helps you retain your workers because they know they’re important to you.”

There are also many opportunities for informal social connection and celebration of the COR family’s diverse cultures. The workforce includes employees with roots in 55 different countries, as well as members of indigenous and LGBTQ+ communities.

Joana Valamootoo is a cultural advisor who leads events, programs and cultural training designed to bring COR together to celebrate diversity and nurture a culture of belonging at the organization.

“I love learning, and I have had many learning opportunities here,” says Valamootoo, who’s originally from Mauritius. “Gentle Teaching, learning how to talk to people going through a difficult time, sharing my culture with other people – it’s all valuable not just for work but for life outside work. And there are so many events and celebrations, like barbecues in the summer, Christmas parties, activities for both the employees and the people we support.”

Valamootoo also appreciated receiving a care package sent to employees during the pandemic. “These types of initiatives make you want to do your best work, because you know that your employers recognize what you’re doing and want to celebrate you in some way,” she says. “It’s the sense of pride that we have working for COR that makes us want to increase the strength of the organization.”

For Lavis, it’s all about building relationships and making people feel safe, valued and respected. “What we have realized over a number of years is that when our employees are cared for, they in turn provide the utmost care to the people we support,” he says. “And that’s really what has shaped our practices and been the foundation of the work we’re doing.”

Click to view full article.