In a world turned upside down, it’s hard to imagine where we go from here. The COVID-19 pandemic has stretched to all corners of the globe and is affecting economies in a way not seen since the Great Depression of the 1930s.
According to the provincial government, B.C. lost over 400 thousand jobs in March and April. Our unemployment rate jumped from an average of 7.2 per cent to 11.5 per cent overnight. Many of those jobs were in the foodservice and retail industries. Countless other jobs were scaled back as demand for just about anything, except for toilet paper, plummeted.
With a bit of luck and enhanced protocols, those jobs will hopefully come back as the province shifts into Phase Two of reopening of the economy. That shift will likely be a slow grind as things inch back to normal. Keep in mind, that normal may not be what it once was and many jobs may not return at all. Tourism in the province, for example, has been decimated. Vancouver-based tour guide Gabriel Stratulat, who runs BC Grand Tours, tells CBC News they’ve gone from everything to nothing.
“From making $60,000 to $70,000 to $100,000 a year, we make zero. Not $1,000 — zero. So this is how we are affected.”
It could be months if not years before things feel like normal again in many sectors and emergency government stipends can’t last forever.
So what do you do?
There are many sectors that operate as essential services no matter the issue. The Developmental Disabilities Association is one of those essential services and we offer many opportunities for those British Columbians seeking a new direction, a new lease on life after COVID.
One of the key things that those who come work for DDA find, is that it’s a rich and rewarding experience. That translates into job satisfaction and loyalty. Many of those at DDA have been there for decades. Not only that, DDA is a fun place to work. DDA employees are an engaging and passionate crew with a drive to be the best B.C. has to offer in home support and child care. There are numerous fun events throughout the year to keep our clients happy and healthy, which in turn, adds to the experience of our staff.
Our employees speak for themselves.
We also offer a variety of positions, schedules, and flexibility. From Fitness Leaders to Technology Assistants, our depth of jobs runs deep as we care for Vancouver and Richmond’s most vulnerable population. If you’re considering a change, explore the many career opportunities DDA offers in the field of support work that can help shift the balance in your life today.
Benefits? Yes.
It’s well documented that job satisfaction plays a bigger role than job title and money when it comes to employee retention. Job satisfaction is a big part of why people stay with DDA for years. But, it doesn’t stop there. DDA offers a full suite of benefits including extended health, pension, on-the-job training, and an inclusive environment.
COVI-19 has changed the economic and employment landscape for countless people. It’s forcing us to rethink our approach and what we see ourselves doing in the future. It’s making us reevaluate what is important and that we are all part of something bigger than ourselves. Take a look at DDA and be part of a team that is making a difference in the lives of others and your community. Reinvent yourself.
