One of our favourite things in the UWSA office is getting a window into the lives of members through the Staff Enhancement Grant. Here are just a few stories from recent grant recipients about how they used the grant and what it meant to them.
Julie Hartley
I used the SEG towards the tuition/class fee for a glassblowing class. This grant allowed me grow personally and acquire new skills, while offering a creative outlet and positive effects on my mental health.
Glassblowing has always been an interest of mine, ever since I was a little girl, watching the artisans work at the Harbourfront Centre in Toronto. I am so happy I finally had the chance to take their classes, and to be able to work with the molten glass first hand. Each step of the process was fluid (both literally and figuratively!), requiring constant re-assessment, adjustment and adaptability, collaboration, and a willingness to embrace change. It has also taught me the importance of being patient, staying flexible and how imperfection can also be beautiful, especially when learning something new. This is definitely an art form that I would love to continue exploring.
This experience was a great way to learn the craft, but also to support local craftsmen and artisans. The instructors were residents in the glass department at the Harbourfront Centre, and it was really fascinating to hear about their journey, their art, and how they make a living in this industry (both by teaching and selling their creations). I think that supporting local artisans also helps to promote and preserve traditional crafts, and strengthens our community and cultural appreciation. Thank you to the Staff Association for offering this grant! This has been a truly memorable and enriching experience!
Julie with her blown-glass vase.
Julie working with molten glass.
Meredith Miller
I used the SEG to purchase a Home Repair and Improvement online course. My goal was to get more comfortable with home maintenance and repairs, prior to entering the housing market.
The course was really helpful in providing useful information on general home maintenance and repair, covering a wide variety of topics including; introduction to power tools, basic repairs /renovations, as well as understanding the basics of home utility systems like plumbing, electricity, heating/cooling and major appliances.
My partner and I purchased our first home last summer, and I have already put some of this knowledge and these skills I learned to use!
Megan Sherritt
I took an adult ballet class. Dance is one of the things that brings me great joy and allows me to relax and take myself out of my head and into my body. The SEG meant that, despite having limited funds available, I could still take a dance class and have a sense of balance in my life despite the stress I'm currently under. I also (finally) feel confident in my pirouettes!
By being more balanced, I am able to focus more at my job. I hope that people in my life benefit by seeing that it's ok to do something that brings you joy even if it's not considered "useful."
Leanne Varey
Leanne participated in two pastry-decorating workshops. "I was able to learn new methods and skills, while making new professional connections and friends in the process!"
Ruby Eagle
Ruby took a weaving course with the Waterloo Weavers & Spinners Guild: "I learned advanced weaving skills on a floor loom, made connections within the guild, and gifted what I created."
Michelle Peimann
Michelle attended a free motion quilting workshop: "I developed new skills and confidence to challenge myself."
Meaghan Ross
I used the grant monies to take ASL 101 & 102 with Queer ASL, who "focus on introducing American Sign Language and Deaf culture to 2SLGBTQQIA+ learners and their allies."
I really value how Queer ASL designs their courses – they use a flipped classroom model, providing students with accessible online learning content followed by interactive practice time facilitated by a Deaf teacher via zoom. They also provide courses for folks living with Disabilities, ensuring that students with disabilities are learning in a well-paced environment and are provided with information on how we can adapt signing to our own needs.
ASL is now another language in which I can communicate—very basically, but with practice, I'll get better.
Rachel Pridham
My self-confidence and awareness improved during my second round of beginner archery lessons. Archery is a great stress reliever for me—each shot requires intense focus, leaving no room for anything else. It’s just me, my breath, my body positioning, and the target. The experience was also rewarding because I got to share it with my two teenage boys, which helped us bond in a way that's often hard to do. We had a blast cheering each other on and learning together. Now, all three of us have been invited to the advanced class!
I met some wonderful individuals during my lessons, and one of the things I love about archery is how it brings together people of all ages and backgrounds. You can be a beginner as just a youngster or start at age 80 — archery truly has something for everyone. This session, our class was especially diverse, with participants spanning all age ranges. It was inspiring to see how the shared experience of learning brought us together, fostering connections across generations.
Rachel lining up a shot.
Stephen Utter
I used the grant to join the Canadian Power and Sail Squadron and take the Maritime Radio Self-Study course to get my Restricted Operator’s Certificate (Maritime) — ROC(M). I also plan on taking the Boat and Engine Maintenance course when it is offered again in my area.
The area that I boat in the most is not covered by cellular service, so in the case of an emergency I have no way of making a cellular call. This certificate will allow me to operate a marine radio on my boat. The community will benefit with another boater that can receive and respond to calls for help over the marine radio channels.
Angelica Amores
I used the SEG to pay for piano lessons. It is amazing to have art in my life and to be able to learn an instrument. It builds confidence, encourages me to be more creative and be in touch with my emotions. Overall I would say my mental health has been better since starting my classes. It was nice to feel supported by the UWSA.
I use the public piano regularly at Toby Jenkins for the people in the building to enjoy. I am hoping I can eventually gain more experience to be good enough to play at retirement homes or volunteer to teach youth who can't afford music lessons one day.