Cultivating Careers At Country Grocer
Since February 2024, Ryan has been building his career at Country Grocer Royal Oak with the support of Garth Homer Society’s Employment Services program. He works in the Produce department and also supports the Garden Centre during the spring and summer months, and has found a welcoming, inclusive workplace that matches his career goals. “I feel confident that there is help from Employment Services when I need it [especially] if there are any changes at work. I know I have employment support in my back pocket.”
Ryan says the positive environment at Country Grocer, along with the people he works with, make all the difference.“Shaun is approachable and really cares… he encourages his employees to reach their full potential at work. I feel appreciated… and I enjoy working with such a nice team.”
For Country Grocer’s general manager Shaun Erdei, working with Garth Homer Society reflects a shared commitment to creating an inclusive workplace that focuses on kindness and respect. “From the initial contact and interview through the first shifts, with hands-on support in the training process, everything has gone as well as can be expected. Beyond that, there have been several check-ins with our employee and [GHS] has kept in contact with me as well to ensure things are continuing to work out.”
It’s gone so well that Ryan has branched out from his initial position in the Produce department to also helping out in the Garden Centre during the store’s busiest season. This move reflects both his versatility and attention to detail. After quickly absorbing his training, Ryan became self-sufficient in his role and was soon trusted with tasks that require a careful eye — the kind that can be easy to overlook but make a big difference to the team. His contributions have been appreciated across departments. “Ryan’s versatility coupled with excellent attendance, adherence to company policies and strong work ethic have made him a value to the team,” says Erdei adding that his experience with GHS’ Employment Services program has not only been positive but everything an employer would hope for.
At Employment Services, we’re grateful for our ongoing connection with Country Grocer Royal Oak as an employment collaborator and for their continued commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment.
For more information about Garth Homer’s Employment Services program, contact:
Angela McKinnon, Employment Services Supervisor: AMcKinnon@GarthHomerSociety.org







