It's a grey Friday afternoon, and Caroline Woodhouse is working the aisles at the Dollar Tree on Hastings Street.
Sporting a black apron and a name tag that reads: "CAROLINE - May I help you?" she stocks shelves, helps customers find things, and rings in purchases at the cash register.
Caroline, 21, has an intellectual disability and describes herself as a slow learner. A couple of years ago, when she was attending Alpha Secondary, she participated in a school program where students work for free in exchange for experience and new skills. Caroline did her work experience at the Dollar Tree in the Heights, and after high school she enrolled in Douglas College's basic occupational education program. The program trains students with special needs to work in three areas: food services, electronics, and retail and business services. Caroline took the retail course and is now back at the Dollar Tree, but this time, she's earning her own wage.
When asked what she gets out of it, her reply is short and simple: "Money," she says, with a laugh.
"I like working here because of the stocking and interacting with customers, and (I) get to know new people," she adds.
Caroline works alongside three students with special needs, currently in Alpha's work experience program. They work at the Dollar Tree three times a week for an hour-and-a-half, handling merchandise, answering customer questions and organizing the shelves. They learn how to use public transit to get to work on their own. They improve their social skills, learn to take direction from others, and leave better prepared for a more independent life.
Carleena Carmichael, one of Alpha's special education assistants, floats around the aisles, keeping an eye on the students. She helps them with their own decision-making process but never coddles them.
"The goal is for them to eventually be independent in the workplace," Carmichael says.
Alpha student Khalil Walji, the tallest and chattiest of the group, tells the NOW he enjoys his experience.
"I like working here during the summer time so I can go to my cousin's wedding," he says with a huge grin.
Khalil wants to follow in Caroline's footsteps and sign up for the Douglas College retail course after he graduates from Alpha.
The Dollar Tree isn't the only place the students work; they also do shifts at Shoppers Drug Mart and the Brentwood mall food court.
While employers get free labour out of the work experience program and the students benefit enormously, Carmichael still struggles to find companies willing to take on the kids.
"Most of the time they say no," Carmichael says. "It's really hard getting doors shut all the time when you are trying to help the students."
Dollar Tree manager Daniela Schroyer says she does it because she loves helping people.
"How else are people able to get experience if they are not allowed to learn?" she asks.
Schroyer's advice for other businesses considering the work experience program is to have patience with the kids.
"I remember when I was younger, looking for a job, and I had no experience, so that's why I do it," she says. "Everybody deserves a chance."
For businesses interested in hosting students for work experience, contact Alpha Secondary at 604-664-8535.
