For Immediate Release: August 26, 2008
Canadore Convocation in Parry Sound
The health care industry in the Parry Sound area is getting a boost this week by the introduction of newly trained Personal Support Workers.
Twenty-seven students are graduating from Canadore College’s Personal Support Worker program in Parry Sound on August 27.
The program has been well-received in the community and has had a 100% graduate employment rate, with the students receiving job offers before graduation. They now primarily work at long-term care facilities including Lakeland Long Term Care and Belvedere Heights.
"I am very pleased that this program is in Parry Sound. It is a special vocation. Personal Support Workers are extremely devoted to caring for the sick and elderly and we are fortunate to have these people in our community, " said Wayne Cormier, Chair of Canadore’s Community Advisory Committee.
The Personal Support Worker program began in 2007 in response to area employment shortages in the health care sector. Lakeland Long Term Care, Belvedere Heights and the West Parry Sound Health Centre partnered with Canadore to offer this program and established lab and classroom space within their facilities.
“We are very proud of all of our Personal Support Worker graduates for achieving their education goals. This program has had such a positive response in the community. Canadore is continuously striving to meet the needs of the West Parry Sound district through our campus here in Parry Sound. We will continue to offer relevant programs to keep up with industry demands,” said Canadore President Barbara Taylor.
The Convocation Ceremonies are being held at Parry Sound Secondary School, 111 Isabella Street at 1 p.m. on August 27.
