There are no barriers here
Our innovative programs help adults living with a variety of disabilities through work, life, social, recreational and employment opportunities.
About WASO
WASO stands for "Work and Social Opportunities". Our mission statement is to improve the quality of life for people experiencing disabilities through innovative training (life, social and vocational), services, advocacy and social opportunities.
WASO has been providing supports to individuals experiencing disabilities since 1981. Over the years, we have expanded our services from one location to six unique sites.
WASO has six different programs that provide a range of support options:
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Head Office
840 McLeod Ave
Winnipeg, MB R2G 2T7
Karen Goodman Wong:Kathy Labossiere: -
Employment Services
188 Goulet St.
Winnipeg, MB
Cam Postma: -
Kingsbury
6 - 1099 Kingsbury Ave
Winnipeg, MB
Anne Arnason: -
Mazenod
Unit 4 - 16 Mazenod Rd
Winnipeg, MB
Scott Johnson: -
836 McLeod
2 - 836 McLeod Ave
Winnipeg, MB
Jessica Careme: -
840 McLeod
840 McLeod Ave
Winnipeg, MB
Judson Smith: -
Regent
9 - 1600 Regent Ave W
Winnipeg, MB
Chantal Johnson:
Featured Spotlight
WASO Diversity Works
WASO Diversity Works - A new program operated by Employment Services. This is a program designed to enhance abilities through practical assessments and volunteer opportunities. WASO Employment Services offers a variety of supports to adults with developmental disabilities in pursuit of employment.
Our employment services program assists people in preparing for, obtaining, and maintaining competitive employment in a field of their choosing. We connect employers with job seekers that have the skills and abilities that align with their employment needs. Diversity works is a new component of WASO employment services.
Our Services
WASO offers supports to businesses that provide volunteer placements.
- On site support from WASO staff
- Assisting with training
- Regular check-ins with supervisors to receive feedback
Volunteering
Volunteering is an important part of Diversity Works. It provides each person with a better understanding of what a job entails and can offer perspective from their volunteer experience.
Planning
Planning is done on an individual basis to address each person’s support needs. This could involve job development/coaching or other forms of employment support.
Assessment
Detailed assessments of each person’s practical and employment skills will be provided to each individual that participates in Diversity Works. Assessments are completed by program facilitators and input from volunteer placements.
Programming Available
All WASO programs provide a variety of programming options, however, each location has an area of specialty.
Vocational Based Programs
Offer the opportunity to work on a number of different contracts. This provides individuals with the opportunity to try a variety of tasks and improve their skills on jobs involving light assembly and/or packaging. Vocational programs also have a recreational component available to the individuals that attend these sites.
Community-based Programs
Provide support to individuals that are interested in volunteering in the community and taking part in recreational activities available in the city. Both on and off site options are available every week.
Employment Services
Support individuals that are capable of working independently in competitive employment. Individuals are supported in employment preparation, job search and post employment support. All individuals working with ES are invited to take part in MentorAbility and experience a short term mentorship with a professional in a field of their choosing.
Ready to work for your business
Whether you are looking to hire one of our team members or are looking to contract out work, we are here to help.