PARTICIPANT VOICES

We had the opportunity to engage in conversations with some participants and their families to
hear their views, not only on the intricacies of this project, but also broader societal
responsibility in fostering a more inclusive community for individuals experiencing various forms
of disabilities. The insights gleaned from these interactions underscore the significance of
collective efforts in cultivating an environment that accommodates and supports individuals in
the entirety of their specific identities.

Over the course of one year, the project effectively delivered employment assistance to a cohort
of 27 individuals confronting various barriers to employment. This endeavor marked a departure
from traditional service delivery models, embracing a transformative strategy. Instead of
adhering to conventional silos, the collaborative efforts of the Multicultural Health Brokers
Cooperative (MCHB) and Gateway Association pooled their expertise to comprehensively
address the unique needs of job seekers in the entirety of their identities.

This innovative approach entailed the implementation of deeply relational and culturally relevant
support mechanisms. Rather than employing a one-size-fits-all approach, the project introduced
inventive job matching and job carving strategies, aiming to customize support based on the
specific needs of each participant. The focus shifted from the straightforward matching of
individuals with available positions to a more intricate and personalized method of providing
employment services.