Caring for others can result in great rewards.
“The smile you get when you’ve made someone’s day better is unbelievable,” said Judy Knight, Executive Director at Norman Community Services.
“The clients are so appreciative.”
Norman Community Services has been providing care for people with intellectual disabilities for more than 35 years. Currently 10 clients are cared for in four homes throughout the community.
Through 24-hour care, NCS staff looks after basic needs such as preparing meals, assisting with bathing and taking clients to appointments, but the intimate nature of the care provided is an opportunity for close relationships to develop.
“Our staff accompanies our clients to doctor’s appointments, parties, and even family vacations,” said Knight. “They can’t help but develop close relationships with each other. We have a wonderful staff and our clients love them.”
Knight explains that it takes a special person with a certain personality to work in the NCS environment and that it’s not for everyone.
“But the rewards are huge,” she said. “The clients give more back than you give them.”
In addition to providing ongoing care, the non-profit organization also facilitates a number of day programs in cooperation with the Vocational Training Centre as well as hosting events such as bingos and parties throughout the year. NCS staff and clients also attend community events in the local area, participating whenever they can.
“Our community is very supportive,” said Knight.
A number of organizations and businesses in Flin Flon have created opportunities for NCS clients. Knight said they are always looking for appropriate roles that would be a good fit for each individual and are willing to work with anyone interested in having a NCS client assist them.
Whether helping out with a special event or on an ongoing basis, there are a number of opportunities for partnerships.
“We work with the organization or business to find an appropriate job and do what is best for both parties,” she said.
In addition to regular staff, NCS welcomes the assistance of volunteers.
“If someone wanted to come visiting, take them for walks, meet them for coffee, they appreciate that. Someone to write them a letter or draw them a picture or who they could draw a picture for,” said Knight. “They’d like a friend.”
A personal connection can be beneficial for both the clients and the volunteers.
Knight encourages anyone wanting to make a connection with clients at Norman Community Services to call the office at 204-687-6890.
