Kindale Developmental Association is opening a new training centre in downtown Vernon.
The downtown location, in the former Valley First Credit Union building on 31st Street, will include a thrift store which will help provide people with diverse abilities on-the-job training.
Kindale’s training centre in Armstrong has successfully hosted several sessions amounting to long-term employment opportunities.
Need for enhanced training came to the forefront during personal-centered planning meetings, which is how the program began.
“At Kindale, we make the hopes, wishes and dreams come true for people with diverse abilities” said executive director B Elliott.
“Meaningful employment offers pride in community together with income providing improved quality of life,” added Cindy Masters, Kindale development officer.
There are several ways in which the community can support the training centre.
First, Kindale is actively seeking volunteers to help with the set up and operation of the training centre.
Interested people can contact Masters via e-mail: cindy_masters@kindale.net.
Second, monetary donations are gratefully appreciated for this program.
Initially funded by grants from Vancouver Foundation, RBC Foundation and Telus, Kindale is actively seeking additional funding to secure the permanence of the program.
Third, watch for news of when you can donate your gently used items.
The new centre hopes to be up and running in downtown Vernon by June 1.
Information about the next training session is available by visiting Kindale’s website at www.kindale.net.