8 Words Birth an Organization ......
In 1950, an ad was placed in the Medicine Hat News by Mrs. Beth Clarke and Mrs. Ada Williams. It read “Anyone interested in helping the handicap, please phone…”. Little did they know with those 8 words would birth an organization that now helps over 600 clients annually, employs hundreds of people, and has put hundreds of thousands of dollars back into other local charitable organizations. The agency was formed in 1952 as the Alberta Society for the Physically Handicapped and evolved to become REDI (Rehabilitation and Employment for Developing Independence) Enterprises Society.
In its original form, REDI was intended to provide employment opportunities to clients through a sheltered workshop where clients/ employees could earn a wage while manufacturing everything from ceramic cups to silk ribbons, and even REDI’s iconic bottle depot. The Society acted as a “broker” between individuals with disabilities and the community, arranged subcontract work as well as the sale of the many craft items produced.
In 1955, the Society opened the first of its kind sheltered workshop or persons with disabilities in the old Empress Theatre building. In 1972 government funding became available that allowed us the opportunity to evolve. REDI began developing and implementing individualized programming for persons with physical and intellectual disabilities, including life and job skills.
On June 30, 2000, REDI Enterprises discontinued production in the workshop, having successfully placed individuals receiving services through Vocational Services in community work and volunteer placements. REDI shifted from sheltered workshops to a model that focuses on supported employment in the community where individuals can work with a job developer, develop an individualized job search plan based on their skills and needs and receive job coaching. Volunteering provides opportunity for increased socialization, relationships building, connecting with others on the base of common values and interests and paves the way for meaningful inclusion. Psychological research show that increased socialization improves mental and physical health. Through their volunteer engagement, individuals gain skills for employment and have better job prospects. All of this positively influences individuals’ self esteem, selfworth, and sense of purpose.
Over the past 70 years REDI’s programs have supported people to truly become a part of the communities they belong in a way that is meaningful to them and those around them.