Ontario Track 3 Association for Disabled Skiers
Another fabulous winter is only a few short months away and our office staff are working full “Steam Whistle” ahead on preparations for our 36th season of helping kids and teens to experience the excitement, freedom and personal development through Ontario Track 3.
Our dedicated Track 3 office staff of Henk Engles, Kathy Saunders, Amy Hopkins have been recently augmented with the temporary specialty skills of Dana Robertson, Jennifer Hill and Diane Guiney to help with our various projects. Thanks to everyone, we are on track with volunteer recruitment, student enrolments and preparations for our annual fall fund raiser to be held at the historic Steam Whistle Brewery on Friday November 14th. The ski season might only be 3 or 4 months out of each year but the business of Track 3 spans all 13 months. Well, it feels like there is never enough time to do it all!
The seasonal nature of Track 3 usually means that volunteers, students and donors tend to delay winter plans until the first signs of snow. Too Late! If you (and everyone you know) offer early notification (Now!) then we can make important commitments to more students for this winter. There are dozens of children on our waiting list whose lives will permanently change for the better if we can provide the necessary volunteer support. If you are a volunteer (or want to be) then please take a few moments to contact the office and even more importantly, to invite some friends to join in on the greatest experience of a lifetime.
Great News! The Ontario Ministry of Health Promotion, Communities in Action Fund has provided us with an interim subsidy to help reimburse travel expenses to instructors who participate in our “Week Day School Ski Day Program”. Last year we assisted over 120 students on School Ski Trips. More students will benefit from the Track 3 experience this year however our growth and success may be limited by the availability of week day volunteer instructors and assistants. This is a wonderful opportunity for people with a flexible schedule. For the first time, we will also offer a special Level 1 Instructor certification session at Centennial Park for any new School Ski Day instructors who cannot attend the standard January Level 1 instructor training in Collingwood. Do you know any retired skiers, work-from-home mom skiers or self employed snow boarders? Tell a friend about the travel reimbursement, convenient training and the new week day opportunity to hit the slopes a few more times this year.
Funding, donations and event revenue are critical to our ability to continually meet the needs of Track 3 kids. One of our current initiatives is to join forces with existing corporate events to add our Track 3 flavour to corporate ski days, parties and functions. Does your company have a social, client or employee appreciation ski day? How about a barbecue or art show? There’s a good chance that we can help arrange auction items, offer sit-ski rides and contribute volunteer organizers. Consider turning your corporate event into a socially responsible event. Contact the Track-3 office to find out more.
Special thanks are owed to Gord Hines, Gillian Morrison, Jeff MacInnis, Allen Palmiere and Bruce Creighton, who have all served for many years as directors on the Track 3 Board. Thank you for your time, commitment, wisdom and guidance. I also wish to welcome new board members Dawn Lunan, David Thompson, Philip Brooks and Jens Mayer.
The business of Track 3 might seem simple on the surface however the orchestration of fund raising, government grants, facilities management, volunteer recruitment, technology, etc can be a challenge. Fortunately, we have been blessed with talented volunteers, board members and staff. It only takes a brief moment to reflect upon the experiences we have all had with the kids to stay focused on our task. One skill progression, one new friend, or one smile makes all the effort worth while.
We are looking forward to another fabulous Track 3 season. Thanks for everything you do and enjoy.
Steve Jones
President
Ontario Track-3 Ski Association
Quote for Today ...."Everyone has the power of greatness. Not for fame, but greatness. Because greatness is determined by service." Martin Luther King
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Ontario Consultations on Temporary Help
This morning, I had the pleasure (sort of) of being interviewed by Andy Barrie on CBC FM Radio. Recently, FM 99.1 Metro Morning has been on a tear to disparage the credibility of the staffing industry. It's obvious that Mr Barrie has been told outrages stories about "human trafficking" and he has been lead to believe that this is some sort of norm. He is using his radio show to right the alleged injustices and do the good thing.
It's unfortunate but I believe that this sort of ratings ploy does more harm than good. I take tremendous pride in the meaningful differences that we (my company and my industry) make in the lives of people. It’s important work and people are almost always much better off because of what we do for them.
Whether we are helping a professional confidentially change careers or helping a Gen-Y into a first job, people benefit from the services we provide. We never charge a fee to a candidate. We always try to make a match that will move a person to a better place in their life.
.
If you listen to the attached Podcast, you’ll hear from Andy’s language and tone that he really wanted to hear a nasty story about exploitation and skulduggery. I have none. I only have warm heartfelt stories about removing barriers for recent immigrants and helping moms return to work. I have more stories about summer students, relocating professionals, etc, etc, etc.
My objective in the interview was to de-escalate the rhetoric. (That’s polite for stop the lies and exaggerations.) If you have been listening to the intensity of Andy Barrie's one sided position on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings, then you’ll probably agree that my interview was somewhat successful in taking the edge off. Although, it’s hard to win the game when you have your defense on the field.
I heard a story once, that at the end of a press conference, Henry Kissinger asked the press gallery..... “Are there any more questions that you think will suit my answers?” Listen to the interview. You’ll know what I mean.
http://cbc.ca/metromorning/media/20080911SEP11TMP.ram
Have a great day!
It's unfortunate but I believe that this sort of ratings ploy does more harm than good. I take tremendous pride in the meaningful differences that we (my company and my industry) make in the lives of people. It’s important work and people are almost always much better off because of what we do for them.
Whether we are helping a professional confidentially change careers or helping a Gen-Y into a first job, people benefit from the services we provide. We never charge a fee to a candidate. We always try to make a match that will move a person to a better place in their life.
.
If you listen to the attached Podcast, you’ll hear from Andy’s language and tone that he really wanted to hear a nasty story about exploitation and skulduggery. I have none. I only have warm heartfelt stories about removing barriers for recent immigrants and helping moms return to work. I have more stories about summer students, relocating professionals, etc, etc, etc.
My objective in the interview was to de-escalate the rhetoric. (That’s polite for stop the lies and exaggerations.) If you have been listening to the intensity of Andy Barrie's one sided position on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings, then you’ll probably agree that my interview was somewhat successful in taking the edge off. Although, it’s hard to win the game when you have your defense on the field.
I heard a story once, that at the end of a press conference, Henry Kissinger asked the press gallery..... “Are there any more questions that you think will suit my answers?” Listen to the interview. You’ll know what I mean.
http://cbc.ca/metromorning/media/20080911SEP11TMP.ram
Have a great day!
Friday, August 15, 2008
ACSESS Membership
All indicators point to challenging times ahead for the staffing industry and, therefore, challenging times for the National Industry Association too. ACSESS (Association of Canadian Search, Employment and Staffing Services) is the only national association representing the industry.
Demographic experts remind us about skill shortages and a growing future dilemma. Social policy experts point out systemic flaws in our country’s immigration policies. The media and advocates for the under-employed are demanding more legislation to help solve the woes of our society’s most vulnerable workers. Economists and statisticians are quick to point out recent job losses. There is no shortage of important issues for the "experts" to wade in on.
Of course, we don’t need experts outside of our industry to tell us about these issues – we deal with these realities every day! WE are the employment and staffing experts. WE are the country’s human resource utility. WE have our finger on the pulse of the labour market. For example, most of us knew six months ago what Statistics Canada is just starting to identify today.
ACSESS is currently engaged in a more diverse list of complex issues than ever. This means that membership in our industry association is also more important than ever. If you are an ACSESS member, then perhaps I am ‘preaching to the converted’ but keep in mind that the real benefit comes from participation in ACSESS initiatives. Are you engaged?
One of my favorite Mark Twain quotes is, “Everybody talks about the weather, but nobody does anything about it.” Unlike the weather, ACSESS offers our membership the opportunity to participate and influence our climate and our future.
Participation can simply mean involvement in a local chapter event, or being a member of a national advisory committee. It can be the pursuit of your CPC designation or your attendance at a national conference (don’t miss Montreal in May of 2009). You can participate in a provincial safety group or reinforce the principles of the ACSESS Code of Ethics within your business. Our effectiveness as an organization and your personal benefit is directly related to your degree of involvement. Are you involved?
Media relations and public relations are of growing concern for ACSESS. The sad reality is that the media likes bad news stories (even if they are not always accurate). We are working to proactively spread the truth about our industry, our services and about the contributions we make to people, business and the Canadian economy. We are making progress, but if you see or hear media coverage (good or bad) that intrigues you then please enquire with ACSESS so that real experts can provide insights.
Membership in any industry association is important. It is a sign of commitment and dedication to your profession. Remember, an industry association is only as good as the members make it. Over 80% of the staffing services provided in Canada are delivered by an ACSESS member. That's a tremendous participation rate and that's why ACSESS is doing such a great job and is so well positioned to help through some tough times that may be ahead.
Steve Jones
ACSESS
National President
Demographic experts remind us about skill shortages and a growing future dilemma. Social policy experts point out systemic flaws in our country’s immigration policies. The media and advocates for the under-employed are demanding more legislation to help solve the woes of our society’s most vulnerable workers. Economists and statisticians are quick to point out recent job losses. There is no shortage of important issues for the "experts" to wade in on.
Of course, we don’t need experts outside of our industry to tell us about these issues – we deal with these realities every day! WE are the employment and staffing experts. WE are the country’s human resource utility. WE have our finger on the pulse of the labour market. For example, most of us knew six months ago what Statistics Canada is just starting to identify today.
ACSESS is currently engaged in a more diverse list of complex issues than ever. This means that membership in our industry association is also more important than ever. If you are an ACSESS member, then perhaps I am ‘preaching to the converted’ but keep in mind that the real benefit comes from participation in ACSESS initiatives. Are you engaged?
One of my favorite Mark Twain quotes is, “Everybody talks about the weather, but nobody does anything about it.” Unlike the weather, ACSESS offers our membership the opportunity to participate and influence our climate and our future.
Participation can simply mean involvement in a local chapter event, or being a member of a national advisory committee. It can be the pursuit of your CPC designation or your attendance at a national conference (don’t miss Montreal in May of 2009). You can participate in a provincial safety group or reinforce the principles of the ACSESS Code of Ethics within your business. Our effectiveness as an organization and your personal benefit is directly related to your degree of involvement. Are you involved?
Media relations and public relations are of growing concern for ACSESS. The sad reality is that the media likes bad news stories (even if they are not always accurate). We are working to proactively spread the truth about our industry, our services and about the contributions we make to people, business and the Canadian economy. We are making progress, but if you see or hear media coverage (good or bad) that intrigues you then please enquire with ACSESS so that real experts can provide insights.
Membership in any industry association is important. It is a sign of commitment and dedication to your profession. Remember, an industry association is only as good as the members make it. Over 80% of the staffing services provided in Canada are delivered by an ACSESS member. That's a tremendous participation rate and that's why ACSESS is doing such a great job and is so well positioned to help through some tough times that may be ahead.
Steve Jones
ACSESS
National President
Sunday, March 16, 2008
Ontario Track 3 Association for Disabled Children
It’s amazing how everyday people can transform into everyday superheroes when they put their hearts into something. This past winter I had the pleasure of experiencing hundreds of superheroes with the Ontario Track3 Ski Association for the Disabled.
The first group of superheroes includes the kids. Ranging in age 6 to 19 years old, the Track3 children and teens live their everyday lives with the type of challenges that most of us can’t imagine. Paraplegia, amputations, Cerebral Palsy, Down, Visual Impairment, Autism... but like all superheroes, the obstacles go unnoticed as their superpowers define their greatness. The super-kids all share a few of the most common superhero powers like determination, fearlessness and happiness. They are infectious and influence others to also rise up and achieve extraordinary things.
There is nothing subtle about the expression of the Track3 kid’s superpowers. You can usually tell by an ear-to-ear smile, eyes that well up with pride and loud noises that sound like “yeeee-hooooo” or “Sweeeeet”. One of the most common side-effects is typically a bear hug or a high five.
The other group of superheroes is volunteers. Of course, they don’t know or think they are superheroes. That’s what makes them so special. Track3 volunteers ride the buses, check the equipment, dress kids warm, teach the skills, keep kids safe, and inspire the kids to discover their own superpowers within. The volunteers also share a few common powers like passion, commitment and selflessness. Making a difference in the life of a child is an addictive social virus. Infection (or affection) can occur from a single Track3 experience.
One volunteer worthy of special recognition is Tim Fryer. Tim committed his Saturdays to photograph the superheroes at Craigleith Ski Club and then he built a few photo videos that truly capture the essence of Track3, the kids and the volunteers. Take a look. I think you’ll see what I mean.
Thank you Tim! Thanks Volunteers, and especially thanks to the kids!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H0mV9Xe3jXk
The Craigleith Idol Video is from a special fund raising and awareness event hosted annually at Craigleith Ski Club. Justine Hines performed as a celebrity guest and judge. Thank you Justin.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GstXMeQ0SIE
The Believe Video is the essence Track 3 spirit. Thank you Craigleith Ski Club.
The first group of superheroes includes the kids. Ranging in age 6 to 19 years old, the Track3 children and teens live their everyday lives with the type of challenges that most of us can’t imagine. Paraplegia, amputations, Cerebral Palsy, Down, Visual Impairment, Autism... but like all superheroes, the obstacles go unnoticed as their superpowers define their greatness. The super-kids all share a few of the most common superhero powers like determination, fearlessness and happiness. They are infectious and influence others to also rise up and achieve extraordinary things.
There is nothing subtle about the expression of the Track3 kid’s superpowers. You can usually tell by an ear-to-ear smile, eyes that well up with pride and loud noises that sound like “yeeee-hooooo” or “Sweeeeet”. One of the most common side-effects is typically a bear hug or a high five.
The other group of superheroes is volunteers. Of course, they don’t know or think they are superheroes. That’s what makes them so special. Track3 volunteers ride the buses, check the equipment, dress kids warm, teach the skills, keep kids safe, and inspire the kids to discover their own superpowers within. The volunteers also share a few common powers like passion, commitment and selflessness. Making a difference in the life of a child is an addictive social virus. Infection (or affection) can occur from a single Track3 experience.
One volunteer worthy of special recognition is Tim Fryer. Tim committed his Saturdays to photograph the superheroes at Craigleith Ski Club and then he built a few photo videos that truly capture the essence of Track3, the kids and the volunteers. Take a look. I think you’ll see what I mean.
Thank you Tim! Thanks Volunteers, and especially thanks to the kids!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H0mV9Xe3jXk
The Craigleith Idol Video is from a special fund raising and awareness event hosted annually at Craigleith Ski Club. Justine Hines performed as a celebrity guest and judge. Thank you Justin.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GstXMeQ0SIE
The Believe Video is the essence Track 3 spirit. Thank you Craigleith Ski Club.
Wednesday, June 06, 2007
Thankfully - we are the makers of our own reputation
Ontario Bill 161 was a Private Members Bill designed to license temporary staffing firms. The Bill was poorly conceived and if it had become law, it would have had very serious repercussions upon the staffing industry, our clients and our workers. Simply put, this was a bad Bill. We worked very hard along with the Association of Canadian Search, Employment & Staffing Services (ACSESS) in opposition to this Bill. We had tremendous cooperation from Ontario Ministry of Labour staff and also received strong support from conservative MPP Tim Peterson (Mississauga South).
Unfortunately, the sponsoring member, Vic Dhillon (Liberal, Brampton West – Mississauga), was less than cooperative. He cancelled every appointment we had and in my opinion, he was repeatedly quoted in the media and in the legislature making inaccurate and disrespectful comments about our industry. He clearly underestimates the valuable contribution that the staffing industry makes to the people and the companies we serve. I know that our staff at all of our companies within Design Group Staffing Inc are proud of the services we provide. I sure am!
The good news is that we were effective in getting our message out to the more reasonably minded politicians, bureaucrats and the media. On June 5th, 2007, Premier Dalton McGuinty called for an early end to the Ontario Legislature. He probably had dozens of good reasons for his decision but one good result was that Bill 161 was quietly put to rest as it failed to become law. Thank you Premier McGuinty!
During this recent period of heavy lobbying, I was able to make bold claims and public comments about our company and how we operate. Ethically, Effectively and Respectfully! National media chose our company as a positive example of the industry. The CTV coverage last week was a good result of the positive messages we have to offer.
http://www.thepeoplebank.com/video/ctv_temp_staffing.wmv
ACSESS continues to provide tremendous value as an effective industry association and I encourage all of our staff and industry members to participate and contribute to ACSESS activities. The Certified Personnel Consultant designation is a good start to industry association involvement.
Thankfully, all is good….
Cheers,
Steve
Unfortunately, the sponsoring member, Vic Dhillon (Liberal, Brampton West – Mississauga), was less than cooperative. He cancelled every appointment we had and in my opinion, he was repeatedly quoted in the media and in the legislature making inaccurate and disrespectful comments about our industry. He clearly underestimates the valuable contribution that the staffing industry makes to the people and the companies we serve. I know that our staff at all of our companies within Design Group Staffing Inc are proud of the services we provide. I sure am!
The good news is that we were effective in getting our message out to the more reasonably minded politicians, bureaucrats and the media. On June 5th, 2007, Premier Dalton McGuinty called for an early end to the Ontario Legislature. He probably had dozens of good reasons for his decision but one good result was that Bill 161 was quietly put to rest as it failed to become law. Thank you Premier McGuinty!
During this recent period of heavy lobbying, I was able to make bold claims and public comments about our company and how we operate. Ethically, Effectively and Respectfully! National media chose our company as a positive example of the industry. The CTV coverage last week was a good result of the positive messages we have to offer.
http://www.thepeoplebank.com/video/ctv_temp_staffing.wmv
ACSESS continues to provide tremendous value as an effective industry association and I encourage all of our staff and industry members to participate and contribute to ACSESS activities. The Certified Personnel Consultant designation is a good start to industry association involvement.
Thankfully, all is good….
Cheers,
Steve
Tuesday, December 26, 2006
The Broad Stroke of Staffing's Good Deed
Referrals are the best known source to find a new career but the Staffing Industry is the single greatest conduit connecting people with jobs in Canada. There are over 2000 staffing companies in Canada and each one is responsible for helping hundreds or even thousands of people find work every year.
Just in case your local Ontario Liberal MPP has recently tried to convince you otherwise... Work is good! Work provides the income necessary for healthy living, family sustenance, and enjoyment. Work may not give people dignity but a lack of work certainly can take one's dignity away.
Staffing companies are not directly responsible for the creation of work but they do play a vital role in helping people and employers to connect with each other in an efficient and productive manner. The growing shortage of skilled human resources in Canada is common knowledge. The Staffing industry provides a valuable service to people and companies by helping Canadian organizations to efficiently search for, evaluate, select and hire people.
Competition is good too. With over 2000 staffing firms to choose from in Canada; companies and job seekers can take their pick of a staffing company that will deliver the greatest value.
Liberal MPP Vic Dhillon (Brampton West-Mississauga), a strong advocate for the under-employed and homeless has recently delivered his constituents a disservice by thinking and acting as if Ontario's Temporary Staffing companies create the jobs. What Dhillon fails to realize is that staffing industry does not make the jobs, they just help to fill the jobs. Even the good jobs! Dhillon is unhappy with the short length of some work assignments and the levels of pay that is sometimes available to the under-employed. Through some sort of misguided logic, Dhillon has decided that crushing the Human Resources department will create better jobs. Not!
Everybody wants our society and our industries to be filled with good work, meaningful work, skilled work, high paying work and secure work. This would also make the staffing companies happy too.
With an election year rapidly approaching, Liberal MPP Vic Dhillon is attempting to make political traction by introducing a Private Members Bill in the Ontario Legislature which is designed to license or regulate staffing companies. If Mr. Dhillon is concerned about the type of work available in Brampton then maybe he should focus on job creation. If he says that there are disreputable staffing companies in his jurisdiction then let's go and straighten them out. But please, do not unjustifiably disparage a whole industry.
Our staffing company (Design Group Staffing Inc.) has been selected for Platinum Status as one of Canada's 50 Best Managed Companies. We are ISO certified and have been recognized for our safety standards and commitment to the communities we serve. I personally and many of my piers have received awards and recognition for business success, volunteerism, community service and for contributing to the high standards of our companies and the staffing industry. I know that my thoughts and feelings are echoed by thousands of other human resources professionals and staffing industry professionals when I say that I am insulted by Mr. Vic Dhillon's broad stroke of ignorance.
It's probably time to go and visit Mr. Dhillon to share views. Please feel free to send me your rant. I'll be sure to pass it along.
It's going to be a great New Year and we're determined to make a meaningful difference to more lives than ever before. Because... that's what we really do!
Happy New Year
Just in case your local Ontario Liberal MPP has recently tried to convince you otherwise... Work is good! Work provides the income necessary for healthy living, family sustenance, and enjoyment. Work may not give people dignity but a lack of work certainly can take one's dignity away.
Staffing companies are not directly responsible for the creation of work but they do play a vital role in helping people and employers to connect with each other in an efficient and productive manner. The growing shortage of skilled human resources in Canada is common knowledge. The Staffing industry provides a valuable service to people and companies by helping Canadian organizations to efficiently search for, evaluate, select and hire people.
Competition is good too. With over 2000 staffing firms to choose from in Canada; companies and job seekers can take their pick of a staffing company that will deliver the greatest value.
Liberal MPP Vic Dhillon (Brampton West-Mississauga), a strong advocate for the under-employed and homeless has recently delivered his constituents a disservice by thinking and acting as if Ontario's Temporary Staffing companies create the jobs. What Dhillon fails to realize is that staffing industry does not make the jobs, they just help to fill the jobs. Even the good jobs! Dhillon is unhappy with the short length of some work assignments and the levels of pay that is sometimes available to the under-employed. Through some sort of misguided logic, Dhillon has decided that crushing the Human Resources department will create better jobs. Not!
Everybody wants our society and our industries to be filled with good work, meaningful work, skilled work, high paying work and secure work. This would also make the staffing companies happy too.
With an election year rapidly approaching, Liberal MPP Vic Dhillon is attempting to make political traction by introducing a Private Members Bill in the Ontario Legislature which is designed to license or regulate staffing companies. If Mr. Dhillon is concerned about the type of work available in Brampton then maybe he should focus on job creation. If he says that there are disreputable staffing companies in his jurisdiction then let's go and straighten them out. But please, do not unjustifiably disparage a whole industry.
Our staffing company (Design Group Staffing Inc.) has been selected for Platinum Status as one of Canada's 50 Best Managed Companies. We are ISO certified and have been recognized for our safety standards and commitment to the communities we serve. I personally and many of my piers have received awards and recognition for business success, volunteerism, community service and for contributing to the high standards of our companies and the staffing industry. I know that my thoughts and feelings are echoed by thousands of other human resources professionals and staffing industry professionals when I say that I am insulted by Mr. Vic Dhillon's broad stroke of ignorance.
It's probably time to go and visit Mr. Dhillon to share views. Please feel free to send me your rant. I'll be sure to pass it along.
It's going to be a great New Year and we're determined to make a meaningful difference to more lives than ever before. Because... that's what we really do!
Happy New Year
Friday, September 22, 2006
First Time Blogger
This is my very first attempt at blogging and I am still learning the in's and out's of posting, formatting and editing. Once I'm somewhat familiar with the process, I'll turn more of my efforts to content. It’s pretty difficult to imagine that I will have the time to blog every day but will definitely take up my keyboard from time-to-time when I think I have something worth sharing. Expect to read the occasional blog about management or leadership.
I will probably also use this space to give public recognition to people who have done something extraordinary, made a difference or encouraged a positive change in the world. People deserve recognition.
Employment and recruitment are my real specialties so I’ll likely have something to say on these topics, but don’t be surprised if my thoughts wander into the fields of customer service, sales, charities or even the occasional rant. I’m also uncertain if the purpose of blogging is to satisfy the writer or the reader. Hmm?
Wish me luck!
I will probably also use this space to give public recognition to people who have done something extraordinary, made a difference or encouraged a positive change in the world. People deserve recognition.
Employment and recruitment are my real specialties so I’ll likely have something to say on these topics, but don’t be surprised if my thoughts wander into the fields of customer service, sales, charities or even the occasional rant. I’m also uncertain if the purpose of blogging is to satisfy the writer or the reader. Hmm?
Wish me luck!
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