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WorkABility Opens Doors for People with Disabilities in Calgary
Calgary, A.B – On Dec. 12, Open Door Group had the privilege of welcoming the Calgary community to our in-person Open House at our new office, located at Suite 150 – 707 10th Avenue SW., Calgary, with many more joining us online to celebrate the launch of WorkABility.It was a meaningful day for our team and for everyone who came together to mark this important milestone.
The Open House brought together program participants, team members, employers, community partners and funders. We were united by a shared belief that everyone deserves access to meaningful work.
We began the day with reflection and community, guided by Elder Karie Lynn through the Opening Prayer, Smudge and Drum Song. Cayley Muir, our Chief Operating Officer, welcomed attendees and spoke about the importance of this launch for our organization and the Calgary community.
“At Open Door Group, we are grounded in one belief, that all people have the ability and the right to meaningful work,” Cayley shared. “The WorkABility program marks our first project in Alberta, and I am especially proud to help bring this work to life in my hometown of Calgary.”
Cayley highlighted the incredible support that made the WorkABility launch possible. She expressed deep appreciation for our funders, whose trust and investment allow us to bring this program to life, and for community partners who collaborate with us to strengthen local networks and create meaningful opportunities. She also acknowledged the dedication of our team members, who navigated new challenges, adapted quickly, and worked together to ensure that every aspect of the launch reflected our standards of care, quality and accessibility. Their collective efforts demonstrate the power of collaboration and the shared commitment to opening doors to employment opportunities for people with disabilities.
“Our team leaned into their strengths, worked together and brought their lived experiences and perspectives to overcome physical, environmental, situational and attitudinal barriers,” Cayley said. “That is the work we are here to do.”
WorkABility in Calgary supports people with disabilities to build skills, access individualized supports and find and keep meaningful employment. We support participants throughout their employment journey and work closely with employers to help create inclusive and accessible workplaces.
We are grateful to everyone who makes this work possible, including participants who take the courageous step of reaching out, employers who commit to inclusive hiring, community partners who collaborate with us, and Assisted Living and Social Services Alberta, who fund and manage this program to ensure strong, accountable outcomes.
Despite the cold weather outside, the day was filled with warmth, connection and celebration. Seeing so many people come together, both in person and online, reminded us why this work matters.
“My heart is warm seeing you all here today to mark this special moment,” Cayley shared. “Thank you for being here to support this vision.”
As we begin welcoming participants into WorkABility in Calgary, this Open House represents more than the launch of a program. It reflects our ongoing commitment to opening doors to employment opportunities that offer purpose, stability and a sense of belonging for people with disabilities in our community.
For details about the WorkABility Program, visit opendoorgroup.org/programs/workability-program or send your questions to
WorkABility Program is Funded by:
The Province of Alberta is working in partnership with the Government of Canada to provide employment support programs and services.
