TeamWorks is an innovative response to the needs of both employers and job seekers with disabilities. For employers, TeamWorks provides a trained group of workers who are available for busy shifts and specialized tasks. For workers with specific needs, TeamWorks provides permanent jobs as employees of VIVRS, working in a wide variety of employment settings.
How does it work?
Working together, VIVRS and the employer identify responsibilities which would be suitable for TeamWorks participants. These positions may involve routine or specialized tasks that take current employees away from their regular duties.A starting schedule and budget are agreed upon. VIVRS staff recruit and train TeamWorks employees, and monitor their performance until an agreed-upon standard is reached.
VIVRS is responsible for:- Guaranteeing that staff are available and scheduled for each shift
- Hiring, training and supervising new employees
- Providing WCB liability insurance
- All accounting related to pay and deductions.
VIVRS currently offers TeamWorks in the Nanaimo area, and plans to expand to the Duncan, Port Alberni, and Parksville areas in future. Jobs with TeamWorks are permanent, usually part-time on a flexible schedule, and designed to offer value, choice fulfillment, and a real working wage for participants.
Success Story: Richard and Costco
Richard's story is an example of how an ongoing relationship with a major employer has created a win-win-win situation for all involved. Richard has a developmental disability, and needs a job where he can focus on a single task with no interruptions to his routine. VIVRS was able to identify a work opportunity at Costco that was suitable for Richard, and which equally benefited the employer.
VIVRS trained Richard on the job and structured the position so that Richard could be successful right away. After years of frustration, and working sporadically, Richard is now entering his fifth year as an employee at Costco. Richard is well known at the store for his dedicated work ethic and positive attitude. Four additional staff have been trained by VIVRS as the demand has grown, and Costco is able to count on having reliable, well-trained staff to handle these routine tasks during busy shifts.