Testimonials
Comments from OSDP Employment Supports Clients
"I met Heather over a year ago while I was in receipt of Ontario Disability Support Program. Before I became one of Heather’s clients I was unemployed and very unhappy with my life. Within a week of Heather working with me I began to notice my life beginning to change. I was setting goals for my future and I started to believe I could become someone of value.
Heather had inspired me to pursue a career that I never believed was possible. She has given me self-confidence and taught me to focus and appreciate my talents. Before I met Heather obtaining a career was only a dream and now it has become reality. I am employed and I have never been happier and it is all thanks to Heather and her unconditional support. I have never met someone so wise, understanding and compassionate. I am truly blessed for having the opportunity to know Heather and be one of her many clients."
"Heather has not only helped with employment, she has helped better all aspects of my life. She is full of life, personable, goal oriented, good communication skills and has a generous heart. Since working with Heather, I’ve been employed for over a year now."
"Thank you for all your hard work, support, faith in me, and encouragement during our time together. I don't know what I would have done without you. Thank you also for all your belief in me, and redirecting me when things didn't work out."
"I didn't forget about you and how you had helped me get my initial job contract with my employer. I have been working full time there since Nov 06, no more contract work which is nice as I now have vacation and benefits. And I am still extremely grateful for the help that you did give me in getting my foot in the door. Who knows where I would be now without your help back in 2003, I could still be stuck working in those low paying factory temp jobs I was doing back then."
"Thank you Heather, you helped put things into perspective for me …..I am grateful for your help and thank you for your listening skills. You show great compassion and I appreciate it."
"I was terrified and very fragile when I met Heather Sullivan. I was in the recovery process from extreme childhood abuse. Through her eyes I started to feel a sense of value. I was struggling to get educated. Her gentleness, compassion and genuine interest in me planted seeds, seeds that are still growing today. She gave me a beautiful ornament one Christmas, a dove. I still have that peaceful creature. I will always remember Heather with respect and affection, she was a large part of my recovery process. She has all the abilities to help people move forward, to become employable. What I value most though is her humanity."
"I want to thank you for being my job coach and let you know that I appreciate your assistance."
"The resume is the key that opens the door for an interview. Heather diligently worked with me on my resume for each job application. She helped me organize my resume and cover letters in such a way that would be attractive to employers.
In addition to helping me with my resume, Heather helped me in significant and specific ways. For example, my history presented barriers to employment. I struggled with confidence around my abilities in regards to employment. Heather helped me overcome low self-confidence by supporting me in each step of the process.
I have now successfully completed my three-month probationary period in my new job. Heather’s ongoing support continuously demonstrates caring and commitment beyond my expectations. She has been a guide in the overwhelming search for fulfilling employment. I am truly grateful."
"Heather is dedicated to working with the clients and giving them the most opportunities. She shows a lot of concern for others, can make people feel comfortable, and has a genuine love for her job. She is one of those people who likes to share her knowledge of how to get a job and secure it.
Heather has a talent for sourcing out potential jobs and recommended a career direction for me. She was extremely helpful in my job search by providing information, preparing cover letters and resumes, suggesting people to contact, and guiding follow up activities. She was extremely well prepared and kept on encouraging me. As a result of her involvement, I am now employed. It has been a lot of work and it has paid off."
"I credit alot of my success to you as you never give up on me and have provided me with so many skills."
Comments from Women Getting Work Participants,
Women’s Centre of Hamilton
“You gave me direction to look in and I will be forever grateful for you setting me on the right path…”
“You have given me hope and courage and I value all of the skills you have taught me”
“You’ve made me take a good look at myself. Thank you - I like what I see.”
“Your support and encouragement since the day I met you have been super. You go way beyond the call of duty.”
“Thank you so much for being the new light in my way and for my resume and cover letter. It has been so helpful for me”.
“I see many more possibilities for employment (even at my age).”
“I can move on with my life, get out of my rut and find that I do have strengths inside me that can benefit a company out there”.
Comments from Professional Colleagues
“…Heather ensured the program met and often exceeded its targeted outcomes…Participants' feedback has consistently remarked on Heather’s approachability and sensitivity to the unique needs and circumstances of each participant. She creates a safe and comfortable environment in which participants are able to develop the confidence and skills to pursue employment objectives. Heather has proven herself to be innovative in meeting clients’ needs and has gone above and beyond in helping clients to navigate their way forward to meet their individual career goals…Her manner is one of integrity and commitment and I do not hesitate to recommend her services”
Jonna Valvasori, Director of Programs and Services, Women’s Centre of Hamilton
“I have found Heather to be diligent, reliable and an enthusiastic performer. Heather’s diligence has been demonstrated by her energetic efforts in working with and on behalf of her clients. She has often demonstrated perseverance beyond what was expected or required of her position”.
Lorne Langdon, Program Manager, Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care
"It is a definite pleasure to endorse your work with Vocational Rehabilitation clients and I think I would have to say the following: Simply put, if I or my family members were in need of vocational counselling or support, Heather Sullivan would be my first point of contact. Her genuine concern and knowledge of the individuals she serves, coupled with her experience, system know-how and positive networks, would assure me that I was working with the best advocate available. Someone who sees, believes and works hard for her clients and for positive outcomes."
Deborah Moon, Employment Facilitator/Job Developer, Employment Now Program
"I have known Heather for many years as a client, community volunteer and colleague. Supported by Heather as a client of the former Vocational Rehabilitation Services, I completed my education and sought work in the community. Following my appointment to McMaster University as a disability coordinator, Heather and I came to work together as community volunteers. Most recently Heather and I had the opportunity to work alongside one another as colleagues supporting students with disabilities at McMaster. While at McMaster Heather continued to provide the same level and quality of support to students that I recall receiving from her when as a client under her guidance. I have learned much from Heather and continue to look to her for leadership and wisdom. She is uniquely familiar with her community, the services and people who can get things done. I consider Heather a friend, mentor and resource. If I had to do it all again, Heather would certainly be my choice for support."
Tim Nolan, (Acting) Director, Human Rights and Equity Services, Manager, Disability Services and University Advisor on Disability Issues, McMaster University
"Heather Sullivan has worked with Perris Training on a number of projects since 2004, including OPTIONS The Conference that Works for Women, Tech 2005 (an event promoting careers in trades and technology to women), and Hamilton’s Face to Face Job Fair. Heather’s client-centred approach is augmented by her extensive knowledge and expertise in all matters related to employment and the community resources available to assist job-seekers. She has an innate ability to comprehend all aspects of a situation, to develop effective actions and responses, and to follow through on tasks at hand. Heather is highly organized, very professional, and a pleasure to work with."
Debra Perris, Perris Training Inc.