The Edmonton Examiner paid Chrysalis a visit in December 2008.

Autism and the need for expression; this was one of the main focal points of interest for a courageous reporter by the name of Kevin Mainmann.

Kevin’s mission became and adventure, to capture the essence of what a man with Autism can do to be understood.

With every word coming out of Marco’s mouth, Kevin descended deeper and deeper into a world of clowns and pirates. With one sentence Marco managed to capture the interest of this fine reporter. With opened eyes and mind, Kevin sat, Kevin listened and Kevin travelled.

Out of the cold and into Marco’s clown bedroom.
Where Kevin was sat and sketched and was sent on his way, in the same manner in which he was invited.

This article is a great and thoughtful expression from the view of Kevin Mainmann. A challenge conquered by both Marco and his new friend Kevin.

Enjoy.

http://edmontonexaminer.com/ArticleDisplay.aspx?e=1362946

Marco's night to shine was another success, the night was shared with Marco's family and friends.

Marco is one of our most versatile artists, everything he touches becomes a piece of art worth looking at, worth contemplating over.

Marco is also one of our most successful artists selling most of the pieces he displays.

Through the open eye of the public and the support system in place, Marco's future is promising.

Enjoy.

A successful night shared by everyone

Chrysalis’ first annual Art exhibit was a night of encouragement, conversation and awareness.

An inspirational night that left the audience with healthy questions about the artwork and about Chrysalis

The positive outlook towards the future of the company, the great way in which we are implementing the Personal Centered Planning philosophy; and most of all, the proud look on the faces of the artists that attended.

The art room would like to thank all of the people involved in such and important and special night.

Below are a few pictures of night.

Chrysalis’ First-Ever Art Exhibition

Chrysalis would like to invite all staff, clients, parents/guardians, business partners, friends and supporters to a special exhibition of works of art created by individuals with disabilities in the Chrysalis Art Program.

Where: 13325 St. Albert Trail
Edmonton Alberta T5L 4R3
780.454.9656

When: December 3rd 2008 – Doors are open from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm

Why: To meet and cheer Chrysalis clients/artists on becoming the best
they can be.

Spread the word!
Pass this information on to your friends, art lovers and the Edmonton community.

Corey Krieser

We are proud to say that the third showing for the month of November was a success.

Corey enjoyed a night among friends and peers, liking the limelight and seeing his art on the walls of Melange Salon and Spa.

Corey's artwork will be displayed at the salon for the entire month of November.

Chrysalis is a charitable organization that was established in Edmonton in 1968 and expanded to Calgary in 1988. Chrysalis was originally called the Industrial Research and Training Centre (IRTC) and began as a Centennial project under the direction of the University of Alberta.

In 1972, IRTC separated itself from the University and became the Western Industrial Research and Training Centre (WIRTC), a non-profit society operated by a volunteer Board of Directors.

Part of the reason for this change was to accommodate adults with developmental disabilities graduating from the Winnifred Steward School. These individuals were provided training and employment opportunities in the community and in business operated by WIRTC, rather than remain in school.

Alberta Family and Social Services became the primary providers of WIRTC funds in 1978. They requested the Board of Directors to continue WIRTC's mandate of increasing the focus of community integration and moving away from the sheltered workshop environment.

In 1992, WIRTC changed its name to Chrysalis: An Alberta Society for Citizens with Disabilities. The word "chrysalis" describes the cocoon stage of a butterfly. This metamorphosis is related to the change and growth individuals with disabilities experience as they develop the skills and confidence to become active members of the community. Thus, the butterfly became the new logo and Change, Growth & Opportunity, the motto.

The Personal Development Plan was developed based on the principles of choice, respect, competence, community presence, and social networks. Through the implementation of a Personal Development Plan, services are personalized based on the interests, strengths and needs of each individual to result in an outcome of their choice.

In 1996, the Board of Directors redefined Chrysalis' mission statement to reflect the diversity of the services offered and the people served. The mission statement was changed to "Chrysalis delivers personalized services resulting in community access, individual autonomy and self-sufficiency".

For over 30 years, Chrysalis has helped thousands of people with disabilities receive training, develop life and vocational skills, find employment, discover volunteer opportunities, and enhance their quality of life. Chrysalis strives to continue to offer personalized services to foster "change, growth and opportunity" to all citizens with disabilities.


OUR MISSION STATEMENT

Chrysalis provides personalized services to assist individuals with disabilities achieve their employment, volunteer and recreation goals.

OUR VISION

People with disabilities are accepted by and included in society for their abilities to contribute, and have the same rights and privileges as all citizens.

OUR MOTTO

Change, Growth & Opportunity

The group projects are designed mainly for character growth, expansion of artistic development and relationship building among the artists.