Lakeland launches new program: community support practitioner

Human Services programming at Lakeland College is growing with a new, in-demand program – community support practitioner – the only diploma program of its kind in Alberta.

Developed with industry consultation, this two-year program provides training for students pursuing a career working with individuals who require assistance within the community.

“We’re thrilled to expand our program options to include community support practitioner. Graduates of this program will start their careers with the skills and experience needed to support and work with individuals across the spectrum of life-span development,” says Janice Aughey, dean of the School of Health, Wellness and Human Services. “In our discussions with industry partners and practicum providers, we know there is a demand for this holistic skill set in a variety of settings. We’re grateful for their support and guidance in developing this much-needed program. We know our graduates will fill a gap and improve supports and services for individuals in the region and across the province.”

Offered at the Vermilion campus and online, community support practitioner students will learn to assist individuals of all abilities, ages, exceptionalities and needs. They will complete courses such as personal assistance awareness, counselling techniques, gerontology and pharmacology. Graduates of the program will complete four four-week practicums with a variety of organizations.

“This is a program that will meet the needs of many community members and organizations in Lloydminster and surrounding areas. There is a level of expertise that is required, and I believe this program will meet that need. It has been a great challenge for our organization to obtain employees that have education related to what we do as an organization,” says Darcie Pollard, CEO of The Bea Fisher Organization. “Our organization has been a supporter of Lakeland College for many years. This program will bring value to the college, as well as our organization.”

The community support practitioner program will prepare graduates to succeed in a variety of career paths, including:

• continuing care facilities
• rehabilitative programs
• community-based support services
• day treatment programs
• residential care settings
• community resource centres

They will also have the opportunity to continue their education at Lakeland by taking the animal assisted wellness and community mental health programs.

Application for the community support practitioner program opens Saturday, Oct. 1 for fall 2023. For assistance with enrolment, email hello@lakelandcollege.ca.