MentorAbility Canada Hub Highlight Series
Every month, MentorAbility Canada proudly presents one of our implementing partners. They are the MentorAbility coordinators—the backstage workers who quietly go about their tasks to ensure that job seekers, employers, and service providers can shine in the spotlight.
For the French version of this post, please click here.
Pour la version française de cet article, veuillez cliquer ici.
MentorAbility Yukon:
Fostering Community and Connection
Located on the traditional territories of the Kwanlin Dün First Nation and the Ta’an Kwäch’än Council, MentorAbility Yukon is more than just a mentorship program—it’s a testament to the power of community.
Facilitated by Inclusion Yukon, MentorAbility Yukon connects individuals experiencing disability to mentorship opportunities in fields they are passionate about, fosters long-lasting relationships, and creates space for mutual learning and growth.
“MentorAbility fosters a sense of belonging and connection by creating opportunities for people to build meaningful relationships in our community,” shares Emily Ross, Community Education and Mentorship Coordinator at Inclusion Yukon. “By connecting people who may not have otherwise crossed paths, the program empowers participants—whether they are mentors or mentees—to see new possibilities in themselves and others.”
Building Connections in Whitehorse
Currently focused in Whitehorse, Inclusion Yukon’s work with MentorAbility is helping to connect mentees with mentors from diverse fields to gain valuable insights and explore their potential.
“For those who may be unsure of their path or where their skills fit into the workforce, MentorAbility opens doors, helping them recognize the value that they bring and new ways they can contribute,” says Emily.
Relationship building with mentees, mentors, and local organizations has been the foundation of MentorAbility’s success in the territory. Coordinators strive to understand the unique needs and strengths of participants and partners alike, which has allowed MentorAbility to create a network of support that continues to grow.
“Organizational skills are quite important as you need to make sure nothing falls through the cracks,” explains Lorraine Paddock, MentorAbility Hub Coordinator. By fostering these relationships, the program has been able to create lasting, positive outcomes for both participants and the wider community.
MentorAbility’s successes in the Yukon have been fueled by incredible support from the local community. While Whitehorse is the largest city in the territory, its population is only 35,000, and the close-knit nature of the city means that support and collaboration can make a big impact. Many local businesses and nonprofits have enthusiastically embraced MentorAbility, offering their time, resources, and networks to help create impactful mentorships that benefit all involved.
“Engaging with other organizations has been very helpful to get the word out about MentorAbility. We have been included in a lot of meetings and events so we can learn to support each other, and our community, better,” says Lorraine.
For Emily, the personal connections are the most rewarding part of her work in the program. “The most meaningful part of my work with MentorAbility so far has been the opportunity to connect with people on a personal level. I get to have real conversations with participants, learning about their interests, skills, and goals, and helping them explore how those could fit into different jobs.”
“It’s incredibly fulfilling to be part of the moments when someone realizes their potential, discovers a new passion, or feels more confident in their strengths,” says Emily.
A Growing Space for Inclusion
Looking ahead, Inclusion Yukon hopes to eventually expand MentorAbility into other communities across the territory. “So far, we’ve been mostly concentrated in Whitehorse, but I’m excited about the possibility of reaching other communities across the Yukon,” says Emily. “Each community has its own unique opportunities, and MentorAbility can play a role in connecting people to these opportunities where they live.”
MentorAbility Yukon continues to grow as a space for connection, exploration, and possibility, helping to cultivate a more inclusive workforce while strengthening relationships in the community.
“I’ve never been more proud to be a Yukoner than since I became the Hub Coordinator for this initiative,” shares Lorraine. “It’s heartwarming to see it all coming together.”
For more information about collaborating with the MentorAbility Yukon Hub, please contact:
Inclusion Yukon
(click on organization name to go to website)
Contact: Lorraine Paddock (she/her)
Phone: (867) 667-4606 Email: [email protected]
Inclusion Yukon
(click on organization name to go to website)
Contact: Emily Ross (she/her)
Email: [email protected]