When I was sending out my resume for Field Placement in term two of the Social Service Worker program, I had no idea we would face such a state of emergency!

It almost seemed impossible to obtain placement, as many agencies were unsure of how to navigate providing the adequate service for their members.

I just so happened to be one of the few lucky students to secure a spot with Community Living Ajax Pickering Whitby.

CLAPW envisions an inclusive society, where everyone belongs and lives in a state of dignity.

This is achieved by assisting those with developmental disabilities to access services within the community.

These services allow members to live full lives effectively by offering a broad range of personalized support services that align with the member's individual goals.

They empower self-determination by assisting members with choosing where they want to live, learn, work, and spend their free time.

CLAPW believes in doing the right thing, even when it may be unpopular to do so.

They believe in strong leadership so that they can offer well managed and effective services.

CLAPW always acts with honesty, integrity, transparency, and accountability.

They genuinely do fantastic work, which is seen through their members, their commitment, and their mindfulness of well-being to all.

They work by providing hope and access to services to empower individuals for the overall benefit of our community.

I do believe CLAPW aligns with my values, as they believe in offering support, guidance, and resources to members and their families.

They have gone above and beyond for their students who are completing field placement.

I can only imagine the amazing supportive service they are providing for their members.

They have made the students feel valued, wanted, and accepted. I truly appreciate all that they have done for the community, including the students of Durham College.

My supervisors and my placement advisor at school, have provided a tremendous amount of support in this academic endeavor.

None of us had any idea of what field placement would look like in this new online environment. 

Through the support of my supervisors, advisors, peers, and the staff at CLAPW, we were all able to successfully take on this task!

As students, we have been able to interact with the members, through leading them through a variety of online activities.

Some of these include Family Feud, Pictionary, and Weekly Scavenger Hunts.

I could not have asked for a more rewarding placement, working with members who would normally have daily in person interactions.

It has felt great to share a positive and safe online environment through conversations and many laughs.

It has also been enjoyable to learn about each of them, as everyone has truly inspired me!!