LiveWorkPlay Welcomes Delegation from Republic of Korea!

On Wednesday, May 24, LiveWorkPlay was honoured by a visit from a delegation of social services professionals from Gyeonggi Province, near Seoul, South Korea. Gyeonggi is home to one of the most vibrant and modern urban economies in the world, with well-known corporations from Samsung and LG to Kia and Hyundai, and to top it all off, this region is also famous for its recreational opportunities.

The delegation of 20 spent time in Toronto and Montreal, with LiveWorkPlay their only stop in Ottawa. Tour organizer Chad Kang explained that the group was looking for opportunities to identify innovative practices to inform their own work in Korea. With the help of a translator, the delegates engaged our co-leader Keenan Wellar about topics ranging from group homes to sheltered workshops.

“They seemed excited about the work we have done to help people have homes of their own and authentic employment, as it turns out some of the issues and transitions in Gyeonggi are similar to what is happening in Ontario. They were clearly very encouraged by our success with supporting people with intellectual disabilities to live in regular apartments and to have jobs that pay minimum wage or better” said Keenan.

LiveWorkPlay was presented with gifts of traditional ceremonial fans as well as very stylish business card holders! The delegation left with a gift of the LiveWorkPlay anniversary book, and enjoyed taking some photos. Carolyn Mills, the latest member of the LiveWorkPlay Life Coach and Community Connector team was busy completing her training when she found herself surrounded by the enthusiastic group of learners!

There was not time for LiveWorkPlay to ask many questions of the visitors, but plans have been made to continue the conversation online!