Programs and Services

Our multidisciplinary team of professionals support individuals with a variety of purposeful services and programs. Our programs are always evolving to serve the needs of the individuals and ensure they are receiving the highest quality programming. 

Chrysalis is funded by the Alberta Government’s Persons with Developmental Disabilities Program (PDD) and provides services to any individual over the age of 18 with a developmental disability.

Employment Services at Chrysalis

As a signature program, Employment Services works to match the skills, talents, and abilities of people with disabilities with employers looking to hire dedicated employees to contribute to their company’s mission and success through part-time, full-time, or contract work. The program builds confidence through skill development and helps job seekers find meaningful employment.

Thank you to the Alberta Employment First Network for providing funding to help us create this video.

Support for Job Seekers:

  • Receive one-on-one support from a dedicated job coach
  • Learn how to effectively search for jobs
  • Build a compelling resume and cover letter
  • Receive interview support (before, during, and after)
  • Gain insight on developing a career path
  • Find mentorship, job shadow, or work experience opportunities
  • Access weekly “Job Talk” sessions
Chrysalis Edmonton staff helping individual
Calgary Chrysalis outdoor building

Support for Employers:

  • Determine duties and tasks that can be job carved
  • Identify employees that would fit well within the company
  • On-board new employees to increase retention
  • Provide awareness training for your team
  • Regularly check in with supervisors and employees
  • Develop a transition plan to support successful, independent employment
  • Receive additional support as needed

Occupational Therapy

Chrysalis employs an on-site Occupational Therapist (OT) who completes formalized assessments (cognitive and sensory) to support individuals as they prepare for employment. The OT can:

  • Evaluate and address sensory, motor, and perceptual abilities of the individual as part of a vocational needs assessment
  • Assess the work site for environmental factors, such as noise and clutter, and the sensory, motor, and perceptual requirements of specific work tasks
  • Determine accessibility and safety of the work area
  • Match the client’s abilities and interests with specific job requirements and recommend any necessary supports
  • Perform a task analysis of job requirements and outline the components into a sequence to ensure that multiple helpers follow the same sequence
  • Create programs for skill development necessary for successful job performance
  • Provide additional support as needed
Chrysalis Calgary closeup of exercise equipment

Art Studio and Creative Arts Program

This award winning program provides opportunities for participants to explore their creativity and individuality, and to develop a variety of skills through the arts. Through partnerships with local artists across multiple mediums, we ensure individuals are receiving a solid foundation of arts-based programming. 

 

With locations in both Edmonton and Calgary, the art studio uses a creative process to facilitate self-exploration, reflection, and understanding. It is through this process that individuals are able to communicate thoughts and feelings that might otherwise have been difficult to articulate. This program serves to remind us that art transcends disability, age, and intellectual capacity and that the possibilities are endless. 

 

The Creative Arts Program encourages community involvement through annual art shows, online auctions, the Chrysalis art calendar, and various art displays throughout Edmonton and Calgary. Because of this exposure, many of the talented artists are being sought after to create commissioned artwork for their supporters. The pieces produced in this program are available for purchase, with 70% of profits going to the artist. The other 30% is dedicated to replenishing art supplies.

Programs and Services Streams

In addition to the programs listed above, Chrysalis also offers programs focused on fitness, self-advocacy, cooking, music, reading, and computer literacy, each designed based on the interests, needs, and goals of individuals in service. Each of these programs and services are available through three streams:

Virtual Supports

The digital world offers us a safe and interactive way to inform, educate, and socialize. Chrysalis offers quality support and services through various online sources, such as Zoom, FaceTime, and GoogleMeets. Our new virtual stream offers the same great learning opportunities through video resources as well as interactive online fun. In depth training and resources are provided for anyone interested in accessing Virtual Supports.

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Mobile Supports

The amazing team members at Chrysalis are available to support mobile needs, such as in-home support, quality time outside, or drop offs and deliveries.

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In-Facility Supports

Our in-facility programs are available in both Edmonton and Calgary and offer unique learning and development opportunities. Health and Safety is our top priority; we follow comprehensive protocols and practices to remain diligent, including Health Ambassador roles that oversee health screening, reporting, and protocols to ensure we are adhering to all public health orders and providing a safe place for individuals to participate in our programs and services. 

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Individuals can access as many streams as they like and each is tailored to meet their needs. 

Programs and Services at Chrysalis

The programs at Chrysalis are designed to support individuals in achieving their employment, volunteer, and recreational goals. It is through these programs that we embrace our mission of Change, Growth, and Opportunity, supporting personal growth and transformation. Take a look at some of the programs and services currently available. 

Thank you to FortisAlberta, Nordic Mechanical Services Ltd. and Westland Insurance Group Ltd. for sponsoring the production of this video.

Personal Development Class

This six-week course empowers individuals with the essential skills to thrive in their new employment roles in a safe, nurturing environment that allows them to unleash growth and self-confidence. In this course, people learn:

  • Teamwork
  • Social skills
  • Effective communication
  • Problem solving skills
  • Safety
  • Time management
  • Relationships and boundaries
  • Professionalism
  • Healthy ways to deal with emotions
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Chrysalis Calgary succulent plants on shelf

Toastmasters, Chrysalis Social Butterflies Club

Toastmasters is a worldwide educational program designed to develop communication, confidence, public speaking, and leadership skills. This energetic club empowers individuals in both their personal and professional lives. As a community club, any member of the public can join and participate. A standard meeting will consist of:

  • Prepared speeches
  • Impromptu speeches
  • Evaluations

Chrysalis Sensory Room (Edmonton)

The Chrysalis Sensory Room provides numerous health and wellness benefits, offering the individuals we serve an opportunity to explore their different senses, relax, and decompress in a multi-sensory environment. 

Chrysalis Calgary virtual dance party

OUR PROGRAMS AND SERVICES

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