Gateway Association

Edmonton Drop-In Wednesdays
2025-09-10 13:00 - 15:00, 2025-09-17 13:00 - 15:00, 2025-09-24 13:00 - 15:00 (America/Denver)
Edmonton Drop-In Wednesdays
For registered participants – Join us every Wednesday from 10 AM to 3 PM for our open drop-in sessions. Whether you’re exploring career options, updating your resume, practicing for interviews, or navigating the job search process, our friendly team is ready to support you.
No appointment needed—just drop in! Let’s work together to take the next step in your employment journey.
Where: Gateway Association Edmonton Office
When: Wednesdays, 1 – 3 PM

Families Forward: Topic TBD
2025-09-10 18:30 - 20:30
Families Forward: Topic TBD
Wednesday Sept 10
6:30 – 8:30pm

Let’s dive a little deeper into this topic and walk away with some new tools and strategies, and come prepared to share some strategies that have worked for you!

Friendly reminders:

Keep your confirmation email! It contains the links to join online events
Please plan to join at the start time. Participants may not be admitted 15 minutes after the event has started or events maybe cancelled after 15 minutes if there are no participants.

Questions?
Contact Stacy(Facilitator) by email at Stacy@GatewayAssociation.ca

REGISTER HERE

An Introduction to Neurodiversity-Friendly Mindfulness Workshop
2025-09-11 13:30 - 15:00
An Introduction to Neurodiversity-Friendly Mindfulness Workshop:
Presented by: Krista Van Iderstine, Occupational Therapist, ADHD Coach & Mindfulness Teacher
This 90 minute interactive workshop offers an introduction to learning about why neurodiversity-friendly adaptations are needed in mindfulness practices. There will be opportunities to try out the various adaptive tools and supports throughout the workshop, including a short guided neurodiversity-friendly mindfulness meditation. The workshop will end with some information and tips for taking some next steps with exploring mindfulness in ways that work for you.
Participants in the workshop will learn:
1. What is neurodiversity-friendly mindfulness?
2. Why neurodivergent adaptations are needed
3. How to adapt mindfulness for neurodivergent needs
4. Next steps for exploring mindfulness in ways that work for you.
Disclaimer:
Please note mindfulness activities, such as mindfulness meditation, can help us to observe ourselves in intentional ways. This can include noticing unpleasant thoughts, strong emotions, or uncomfortable body sensations. For some people with pre-existing trauma (such as those diagnosed with PTSD), practicing mindfulness meditation may trigger PTSD-related symptoms like emotional overwhelm. The short mindfulness activities (including a short mindfulness meditation) that will be explored during this workshop will be taught in a trauma-sensitive manner, although with this group format there will be limited opportunities for 1:1 support from the presenter. Participants will be advised to stop any of the mindfulness activities if they end up feeling uncomfortable during the workshop, and participants will be able to choose to not participate in any of the activities at any time during the workshop. If you have any concerns about the information above, please email the workshop organizer(s) and/or connect with the mental health professional(s) you are working with about the advisability of exploring mindfulness meditation in a workshop group format.

To learn more or to register, please connect with us at Get-Work@GatewayAssociation.ca

Transition Planning to Adulthood - 3-part series, September 11 start
2025-09-11 18:00 - 21:00
Transition Planning to Adulthood:
Thursdays
Sept 11
Sept 18
Sept 25
6:00 pm – 9:00 pm | Online

Part 1: Life Transitions
Part 2 : Visioning, Planning, and Valued Roles
Part 3: Navigating the Systems

A 3-part workshop series exploring the critical transition to adulthood for 14-20 year-olds and how to create a plan for the future.
This is a workshop series for parents/caregivers that engages families in building knowledge when navigating this critical time for 14-20 year olds.
This workshop series includes topics on: life transitions, valued roles in the community, visioning and planning, and navigating the systems. Note: All three workshops must be taken consecutively.
Questions?
Yonique Ritch (Facilitator) at yonique@gatewayassociation.ca
Register Here

Accounts and Claims
2025-09-13 09:00 - 11:00
Accounts and Claims
Saturday, September 13
9:00 AM – 11:00 AM | Online

A 2-hour workshop is tailored for families with FSCD agreements looking to optimize their use of the OCR system. This workshop intended to facilitate an open dialogue on utilizing the OCR system effectively.
The training has been developed by FSCD to address four significant challenges facing system users. They are:

Understanding the Agreement
Accessing OCR
Creating a Successful claim; and
Record keeping and preparing for reviews

A Service Roadmap has also been developed to give users a high-level overview of the entire process, with helpful links at each step to provide further details.
Questions? Contact Li (Facilitator) by email Li@gatewayassociation.ca
REGISTER HERE

Calgary Drop-In Wednesdays
2025-09-17 10:00 - 15:00, 2025-09-24 10:00 - 15:00, 2025-10-01 10:00 - 15:00, 2025-10-08 10:00 - 15:00
Calgary Drop-In Wednesdays
For registered participants – Join us every Wednesday from 10 AM to 3 PM for our open drop-in sessions. Whether you’re exploring career options, updating your resume, practicing for interviews, or navigating the job search process, our friendly team is ready to support you.
No appointment needed—just drop in! Let’s work together to take the next step in your employment journey.

Where: Gateway Association Calgary Office
When: Wednesdays, 10 AM – 3 PM

FSCD 101
2025-09-17 18:30 - 19:30
FSCD 101
Wednesday, Sept 17
6:30 pm – 7:30 pm | Online

FSCD 101 is an introduction to the Family Support for Children with Disabilities (FSCD) program.
The presentation will support families with understanding how to utilize their FSCD agreement and is intended for families that have received their first FSCD agreement.

Prior to attending the session, it would be helpful for families to review the Family Package, sent to you by the Family Support Services (FSS) team, as we will be referencing this document throughout the session.

Topics we will be going over include:
· the different types of services and supports
· reviewing an example agreement
· records-keeping and invoicing requirements
· and more.
Questions? Shelley (Facilitator) at Shelley@gatewayassociation.ca
REGISTER HERE

FMS Admin: Online Claims Reimbursement Systems Training
2025-09-17 18:30 - 20:30
Online Claims Reimbursement Systems Training

Wednesday, Sept 17
6:30 pm – 8:30 pm | Online

A workshop for Family Managed Services Administrators focused on enhancing your understanding and management of the Online Claims Reimbursement (OCR) system.

This session will address common challenges and streamline your experience with the system, ensuring you can utilize it confidently and efficiently.
Workshop Goals:

Understanding the Agreement: Gain a deeper understanding of the FMS agreements and expectations of the OCR system.
Accessing OCR: Learn the ins and outs of accessing the system effectively, including navigation tips, user support resources, and troubleshooting common issues.
Creating a Successful Claim: We’ll walk you through the process of creating and submitting claims through the OCR system, focusing on accuracy and timeliness to ensure successful processing.
Record Keeping and Preparing for Reviews: Enhance your skills in maintaining accurate records and preparing for periodic reviews.

Questions? Contact Miriam at Miriam@GatewayAssociation.ca

Register HERE: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/fms-admin-online-claims-reimbursement-systems-training-tickets-1407340375949?aff=oddtdtcreator

Labor Market Trends
2025-09-18 13:00 - 14:00
Labor Market Trends
An in-depth discussion on what jobs are in demand and how you can plan for career stability
Online – Zoom
For more information or to register, please connect with us at Get-Work@GatewayAssociation.ca

Transition Planning to Adulthood - (2 of 3)
2025-09-18 18:00 - 21:00

PDD 101
2025-09-20 09:00 - 12:00
PDD 101
Saturday, September 20
9:00 am – 12:00 pm | Online

A workshop for caregivers to develop knowledge of Alberta’s government service known as Persons with Developmental Disabilities (PDD).

“This workshop is an introduction to and overview of PDD for those who may be eligible. You will gain an understanding of the PDD program, options available for service provision, and information to determine the best supports for your family.

This workshop will provide you with:
1. An understanding of the PDD program’s role in supporting adults with developmental disabilities
2. Knowledge of available options for service provision – Family Managed Supports (FMS) and PDD Service Providers (agency)
3. Information to guide you in determining which type of service provision will best suit your family and individual needs.

Questions? Contact Miriam (facilitator) at miriam@gatewayassociation.ca

REGISTER HERE

Having Difficult Conversations
2025-09-22 16:30 - 18:00
Having Difficult Conversations
Monday September 22
4:30 pm – 6:00 pm | Online

A workshop for people with disabilities and their families on navigating difficult conversations

Let’s get talking! Having conversations can be hard. How we communicate with others is important. During this short ninety minute workshop, we will explore what conflict is, how we respond to it and some key principles for good communication.

Questions? Stacy (facilitator) or Mike (Facilitator) at Stacy@GatewayAssociation.ca or Mike@GatewayAssociation.ca

REGISTER HERE

Networking - Using Our Connections
2025-09-23 13:00 - 14:00, 2025-10-09 13:00 - 14:00
Networking – Using Our Connections
In this workshop, participants will be learning how to network online and in person.
Online – Zoom
To learn more or to register, please connect with us at Get-Work@GatewayAssociation.ca

Disclosure and Accommodations
2025-09-25 13:00 - 14:00
Disclosure and Accommodations
Practical steps you can take to share personal needs and ask for support.
Online
For more information or to register, please connect with us at Get-Work@GatewayAssociation.ca

Transition to Adulthood - 3 part series, (3 of 3)
2025-09-25 18:00 - 21:00

Workplace Expectations
2025-09-30 13:00 - 14:00
Workplace Expectations
This interactive workshop will help you retain your job; we will explore what you need to do to keep your job.
Online – Zoom
For more information or to register, please connect with us at Get-Work@GatewayAssociation.ca

Edmonton Drop-In Sessions
2025-10-01 13:00 - 15:00

FMS Admin: Abuse Prevention and Response Protocol
2025-10-01 18:00 - 21:00
FMS Admin: Abuse Prevention and Response Protocol
Wednesday, Oct 1
6-9 pm | Online

A workshop that explores ways to reduce the risk of abuse and how to handle suspicions of abuse (for Family Managed Services Administrators).

This workshop, for FMS Administrators, provides an understanding of the protocol, explores what can be done to reduce the risk of abuse, identifies types of abuse, and how to handle situations when abuse is suspected.

Note: This is a mandatory course for FMS Administrators under Family Managed Services with Disability Services.

Questions? Contact Betty (Facilitator) at Betty@GatewayAssociation.ca

Register here: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/1373398615229?aff=oddtdtcreator

Inclusion Perks YYC ft ASL Instruction by Deaf & Hear Alberta!
2025-10-02 10:00 - 11:30
☕ Inclusion Perks YYC is back for DEAM 2025! ☕
Join us at Work Nicer Rail Yards for a morning of connection, learning, and inspiration as we celebrate Disability Employment Awareness Month (DEAM)!
What’s brewing at this event?
ASL instruction led by Deaf & Hear Alberta — learn some sign language basics while building inclusive communication skills.
Meaningful conversations with employers, service providers, job seekers, and community members about building more inclusive workplaces.
DEAM spotlight — discover what Disability Employment Awareness Month is all about and how YOU can get involved with events happening across Alberta all month long.
This is your chance to grab a coffee, meet new people, and walk away with practical ideas (and maybe even a few new phrases in ASL!) to bring inclusion into your workplace and community.
Come for the coffee. Stay for the connections. Leave inspired to create change.
We can’t wait to see you at Inclusion Perks YYC!
For any questions or accommodations, please connect with us at Get-Work@GatewayAssociation.ca
REGISTER HERE

More than Just a Job
2025-10-04 09:00 - 12:00
More than Just a Job
Saturday, Oct 4
9am-12pm | Online

This workshop, for Family Managed Services (FMS) staff, will help you identify your values and how they apply to your work in supporting others.
You will learn how to identify and reduce the risk of abuse, keep people safe while growing independence, and building relationships both within the support network and within the community.
You will gain skills and tools to excel in your role.

Questions? Contact Betty (Facilitator) at Betty@GatewayAssociation.ca

Register here: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/1374654020179?aff=oddtdtcreator

How to Read a Job Posting
2025-10-07 13:00 - 14:00
How to Read a Job Posting
Join this workshop to understand various elements of a job posting, identify red flags, and find the right match. This workshop intends to help people save their time by targeting jobs that fits their expectations.
Online – Zoom
To learn more or to register, please connect with us at Get-Work@GatewayAssociation.ca

Workshop: Visioning & Planning 0-8 years (1 of 3)
2025-10-07 18:00 - 20:00
Workshop: Visioning & Planning 0-8 years
Tuesdays
October 7
October 14
October 21
6:00 pm – 8:00 pm | Online

A 3-part workshop series that empowers families of children with disabilities up to 8 years old with knowledge, resources, and more.

This is a workshop for parents/caregivers of children with disabilities from birth-8 years old with knowledge, resources, and a sense of direction for the future.

We will touch on a variety of topics including values and belonging in the community, visioning and planning, various transitions during early elementary school, navigating various systems (FSCD) age appropriate for families with younger children as well as advocacy and having difficult conversations.

Questions? Stacy (facilitator) at stacy@gatewayassociation.ca
Register Here: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/1374678503409?aff=oddtdtcreator

Employment Drop In Session - Edmonton Employment Resource Centre
2025-10-08 10:00 - 15:00
Employment Drop In Session – Edmonton Employment Resource Centre
Please note that this event is for registered participants and invitees only
As part of Disability Employment Awareness Month (DEAM), Gateway Association is excited to host a special Drop-In Session exclusively for our Gateway participants!
This session is designed to give you hands-on tools, resources, and interactive learning opportunities to support your career journey. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your job search skills, learn about mentorship, or sharpen your application techniques, this is a chance to build confidence in a supportive environment.
Agenda
12:00 PM – Doors Open | Explore resources including interview attire, MentorAbility sign-up, and USB drives with job search tools
12:30 PM – Workshop: Spotting Job Scams
1:00 PM – Workshop: How Mentorship Can Enhance Your Job Exploration
1:30 PM – Workshop: Job Application Techniques Using AI
2:00 PM – Workshop: Employment Jeopardy (interactive game)
3:00 PM – Drop-In Ends
This event is a celebration of inclusion, growth, and opportunity during DEAM — and a chance for Gateway participants to connect, learn, and have some fun along the way.

Families Forward: FSCD/FSS: Let's Talk About it!
2025-10-08 18:30 - 20:30
Families Forward: FSCD/FSS: Let’s Talk About it!
Wednesday October 8th
6:30 – 8:30pm
Virtual

Have questions regarding FSCD/FSS? Do you have your agreement in place? Are you looking for next steps or need to ask some questions? Join us to chat about questions that may come out of the FSCD 101 workshop and/or if you’re new to the Disability Services world in Alberta. We will host a safe space to ask questions and if we aren’t sure about the answer, we’ll help provide tips on where to go to find out.
Questions? Contact Yonique at yonique@GatewayAssociation.ca

Register here: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/1374747088549?aff=oddtdtcreator
