Description Of Client Programs
Although we have definitions for the various programs offered within our vocational sites, most individuals in our vocational programs participate in different aspects of all programs offered. A client is not defined as “vocational” or “pre-vocational” but rather, they participate in the vocational or pre-vocational program at different levels depending on their preference and/or areas they want to build on skills. All clients in our programs may choose to participate in volunteer or work opportunities in the community. Sometimes, we are limited in being able to provide opportunity for work skill development in the community due to a lack of staff resources; however, if a client expresses an interest in a specific job or workplace we make every effort to accommodate, even if in a small way. Clients involved in all programs have the opportunity to participate in recreation and leisure throughout the work week as well as educational sessions. Our goal is to focus on each individual and have flexibility in our programs so that exposure and opportunity can be given in many areas. We believe in providing training both for our staff and for the clients involved in our programs. Opportunities to participate in WHMIS, Food Handlers, First Aid/CPR, Fire Safety, OH&S, etc. are equally available to staff and to those individuals who choose to participate in our programs.
The programs offered at our vocational sites include: employment readiness, pre-vocational, rights and responsibilities, vocational, literacy, life and community skills, retail and business skills, social and communication skills, bakery and laundry skills, customer service, etc.
Depending on the community in which the vocational program is located, the business/work skills within the “four walls” of the program may vary. In Barrington, we operate a bakery, a Laundromat and provide cleaning services. In Shelburne, we do specialty engraving and laundry and cleaning services. In Lockeport we operate a small scale café and retail shop.
Other Programs
We provide and promote other programs that we feel support our philosophy of working with individuals with disabilities to improve the quality of their lives. These programs include supporting a Chapter of “People First”, and Special Olympics.
Our goal is to be as holistic as possible in any of the programs we provide or promote recognizing that in order to provide quality support, we need to look at the “whole person” and we will be as creative and innovative as we need to be to assist them in reaching their goals and dreams. We support the “Personal Outcomes Measures” philosophy of programming which looks at life planning for individuals focusing on their goals, not our goals for them.
Program Definitions as Outlined by the Department of Community Services
Broadened Day Option: This is programming that is primarily recreation/leisure or life skills in nature. There is generally no intended vocational goal, and is most often an alternative to staying at home during the day for individuals with very high needs or for those who are retiring.
Pre-Vocational: This is an activity-based program where people with moderate to profound intellectual disabilities participate in a range of activities, generally within a centre-based location. Some vocational activity involving meaningful work may take place.
Vocational: This is hands on, in-house meaningful work experience for people with mild to moderate intellectual disabilities and who are able to work with minimal supervision. Vocational programming generally takes place within a centre location.
Community Employment: This is community-based employment, either on a part time or full time basis, for a wage or on a volunteer basis. No on-site job coaching is provided.
Supported Employment: This is community-based employment, either on a part time or full time basis, for a wage or on a volunteer basis. On-site job coaching is provided, depending on individual need, usually on a time-limited basis.