While Alberta’s economy continues to grow and more jobs are created, Albertans with visual impairment are finding it difficult to find work due to their unique needs and the specific accommodations they require.

Alberta’s government is committed to supporting Albertans living with disabilities. This $1-million grant to the CNIB will help remove employment barriers and ensure more visually impaired Albertans are able to contribute to the province’s growing economy.

CNIB’s Come to Work program currently serves more than 200 visually impaired Albertans. This funding will enable the organization to help an additional 110 clients, resulting in about 350 visually impaired Albertans having access to employment supports, mentorship opportunities and job search assistance in 2023.

“Every Albertan deserves equal opportunities to work. By committing this funding, Alberta’s government is expanding resources to make sure people with vision impairment have the supports they need to find meaningful jobs.”

Jason Nixon, Minister of Seniors, Community and Social Services

This new funding builds on a previous grant of more than $300,000 and will be spread out over two years. The Come to Work program is available in person in Calgary and Edmonton, and online for other participants throughout the province.

“Our Come to Work program connects job seekers who are blind or partially sighted with employers who want to discover the full potential of Alberta’s talent. Thanks to the Alberta government’s renewed commitment, we are continuing to partner with employers across the province to create more accessible and inclusive workplaces.”

Craig Peterson, provincial director, Alberta and Northwest Territories, CNIB

CNIB helps Albertans move through different stages of services, ranging from adjusting to vision loss supports to workshops and seminars. This funding will help the CNIB to work with local employers to educate and advocate on ways to provide better networking and career options for individuals living with impaired vision.

Quick facts

  • Founded in 1918, the CNIB Foundation is a non-profit organization that delivers programs and advocates for people impacted by blindness to live their dreams and remove barriers to inclusion.
  • CNIB is powered by a network of volunteers, donors and partners across the country, including the Government of Alberta.
  • In June 2022, CNIB’s Come to Work program received $313,076 in provincial funding.