Fort St. John is recognizing the role inclusive employment can play in helping people with disabilities build careers and participate in the local workforce.
At Monday’s council meeting, local advocate Anne McMenamin appeared on behalf of WorkBC and Employment Connections to ask council to proclaim September 2026 as B.C. Disability Employment Month.
The recognition is part of broader provincial efforts to improve accessibility and create more inclusive communities for people living with physical and cognitive disabilities.
McMenamin highlighted the growth of employment services in the Peace Region since the program expanded in 2012.
“Since 2019, the Northeast WorkBC Centre has provided services to 1,028 clients to date, with $945,807 in support provided to clients who specifically identify as having a disability in Fort St. John,” McMenamin said.
The funding has helped clients access services including skills assessments, job development, occupational training, assistive technology, workplace clothing and safety equipment.
McMenamin also recognized local businesses and organizations that have supported inclusive employment, including Canadian Tire, Safeway, the Fort St. John Friendship Society and Northern Lights College.
“Accessibility and individualized services and supports are crucial to the success of clients with disabilities,” McMenamin said. “We continue to focus on them as part of our ongoing commitment to enhance client service.”
Employment clients can also access counselling and other supports through local providers, including Jones Jardine Conflict Solutions, Guts & Grit Counseling and Mental Maintenance.
Following the presentation, Coun. Trevor Bolin read the proclamation on behalf of Mayor Lilia Hansen and council.
“We are asking Mayor Hansen and councillors to proclaim September 2026 as Disability Employment Month,” McMenamin said.
Council unanimously approved the proclamation.
The recognition is intended to highlight the importance of reducing barriers to employment and supporting people with disabilities as they pursue work and career opportunities in Fort St. John and across the region.
