Island Displays rents and stages equipment for indoor and outdoor functions. During peak times, they'll supply a mind-numbing number and variety of events, including business expositions, regional fairs, sporting events, and weddings.

How does the company deal with the resulting demand for additional employees? By calling Crews@Work, a labour service offering individuals with brain injuries the opportunity to work again.

"We often need lots of extra bodies," said Michael Jollymore, production manager for Island Displays, "and Crews@Work will send as many as we need."

The crews arrive with their own foreman. Jollymore assigns the crews specific jobs, from arranging chairs and tables, to hanging table skirts and masking drape, to taking down tents and lights.

The director of Crews@Work, Miriam Byrne, knows the abilities of her various employees and sends only those appropriate for the specific situation.

"I love working with Island Displays," said crew member Chris MacKenzie. "The physical aspect is demanding yet rewarding."

"Since we started using Crews@Work, we haven't used the other labour pools at all," said Jollymore. "That's how impressed we are."

Hiring people with brain injuries presents challenges, but Jollymore, having a nephew with a learning disability, was open-minded. He knew, for example, that providing careful instruction would result in a job well done.

"I was used to this—you have to show them," said Jollymore. "Walk them through, be clear, and go slow, then know that once they've got it, they've got it."

MacKenzie agreed: "Island Displays' supervisors act as our partners to ensure that we get the job done right."

Aside from their ability to do a good job, what Jollymore appreciates most about the employees sent him is their attitude. Empowered by Crews@Work, and progressive employers, most people with brain injuries, who might not otherwise be able to sustain independent employment, are eager to contribute their best.

"They're waiting for me at the site," said Jollymore. "They finish in a blink and then they're coming to me looking for the next job. When we're busy, that enthusiasm is a big bonus."

Another benefit for Jollymore and Island Displays is the additional respect they receive from customers.

"Often, we will explain to the client ahead of time, or when we arrive, who these guys are and what we are doing, and we have had nothing but positive responses."

While there is a solid business case for Island Displays to use Crews@Work, the choice reflects Island Display's commitment to their community, which is why they also use the Correctional Service of Canada's work release program for industrial sewing and tent cleaning and employ sporting groups for some of the charitable events they supply.

"It just fits with this company," said Jollymore, who suggests that other employers committed to their community and in need of casual labour "give Crews@Work a try. There's not a lot that they can't do."