Real work needed

Dear editor:
I am writing in regards to a problem that exists within the district. The problem is unemployment among people who are living with a mental illness.
The Ministry of Health recently released a publication entitled “Making It Work.” In this publication, it is stated that a necessary component of rehabilitation for people with mental illness is real work.
The organization that I work with is doing something about this dilemma. In March, 2000, a group of people visited alternative forms of business for people with mental illness in southern Ontario. To our delight, we were welcomed into business communities that were very successful. There were restaurants, couriers on delivery, carpenters at work, ceramic artists, a cleaning business, and a consignment store filled with precious art.
The visiting group envisioned success for people with mental illness in the Kenora-Rainy River District.
The collaborative ventured forth and took to the pavement within the Kenora-Rainy River District. They uncovered a wordly desire for success. Hope for a brighter future. People with mental illness had a hearty desire to enhance their lives and build towards a more fulfilling existence.
As each community within the district stood and voiced their concerns, a vision came forth–a vision that included all people with mental illness working together to build a strong business/employment foundation that would reap rewards for years to come.
People living with mental illness have many obstacles to face during their lives such as diagnosis, medications, barriers to employment, and stigma. These same people have stated that they have desires for independence. They feel that if they are given the right opportunity, they can change their lives for the better.
The Canadian Mental Health Association (Fort Frances Branch) Can Help program is working towards the goal of improving the live of those suffering a mental illness. By working with partnerships within the district, the Canadian Mental Health Association is striving to build supportive work environments within each community.
A vision of prosperity for a troubled population is shared by all affected by mental illness. There should be no need for people living with mental illness to lead a sheltered life.
With good community support and understanding, the lives of all affected can blossom.
Sincerely,
Troy Parks
Economic Developer
CMHA
Fort Frances Branch