When Alex joined the Building Blocks Program in Rosthern, he was looking for more than just a job. He wanted a chance to build confidence and overcome the anxiety that made social situations challenging. Referred to the program by his mom, Alex had experienced significant shyness and often found it hard to attend interviews for other jobs. “I really wanted to feel like everyone else,” he shared.
The Building Blocks Program was created with support from Ready, Willing and Able (RWA), whose youth employment initiatives fund Indigenous and culturally specific community projects that create meaningful opportunities for youth on the autism spectrum or with an intellectual disability.
Through the program, Alex started working at Bigway, a local grocery store in Rosthern. As a stocker, he unpacks deliveries, organizes shelves, checks expiry dates, and keeps aisles tidy. The job gave him a structured, hands-on role that helped him build confidence and routine. He began working fewer than ten hours a week and now proudly works part-time after school, contributing meaningfully to his team.
Alex has made remarkable progress since starting his job. “What helped me a lot when I couldn’t figure something out,” he said, “was asking for help, checking bar code numbers, or asking Kath for help.” By learning to reach out and communicate, Alex not only gained job skills but also built stronger relationships with his co-workers.
Still attending school, Alex has noticed a big change in himself. “Having this job helped me get over my fears of being in a big crowd for a long time,” he explained. His teachers have seen improvements in his confidence and how he interacts with others, while Bigway staff describe him as outgoing, friendly, and easy to work with.
Outside of work, Alex enjoys playing guitar, listening to music, and relaxing with video games. His positive outlook extends beyond the workplace, and he offers advice to others who may be struggling with self-doubt:
“If you ever feel insecure about something about yourself, always know that you should just be yourself, be confident, and ignore what people say about you.”
Alex’s experience reminds us that success is strongest when it’s rooted in community. When programs are culturally and community-centered, they allow for a deeper understanding of people’s unique needs, strengths, and lasting opportunities in the workforce.