The My 1st STEP Program
This program is designed for individuals who are transitioning into the community for the first time and require 1:1 or 2:1 support. It is a structured program that focuses on personal development and teaches the skills necessary for members to be in the community and share space. Program goals support members to progress from 1:1 support to lesser levels of support. Learning includes understanding community rules and expectation; managing money and using reward systems; using public transit; using technology to communicate needs; going to a gym, library, mall or special event; and pre-work skills.
The Community STEP Program
This program is best for members who want to work on job skills and independent living skills. Members increase independence in the community; develop community & transit skills; develop life skills for increased independence; develop an understanding of laws and social expectations; and are supported to develop a peer group. Learning groups are staffed at a 3:1, participant to staff ratio.
The Work STEP Program
This program is best for young adults who are ready to transition into their first job. Members learn leadership skills; how to support peers and coworkers; and the job specific skills of an event facilitator, group guide or group facilitator with NextSTEP Support. Members who complete this program also have an opportunity to join our team for paid employment.
Ratios: Members move from one program to another as skills are acquired and their support needs decrease. Members participate in groups of 2, 3 or 5.
Languages supported in the program: English
Program hours: 8:30 am – 4:30 pm
Dates: Monday – Friday, year-round
Cost: Variable based on program & activity choices.
Agency/Organization: NextStep Support
Program Contact: Amberley Henry
NextStep Support
Our services empower individuals of differing abilities to lead active and rewarding lives in their communities. We look at a person’s entire day for inspiration in providing Social, Recreation, Leisure, Work & Community Living activities and supports. Our services are developed to encourage personal development; promote community inclusion, develop increased independence and support lifelong growth.
NextStep hosts social events, group activities and skills development sessions for young adults 18+ years old. We provide Group Facilitation Services, Community Skills Training & Opportunities for Employment to our members, who participated in the events and activities we host.
NextStep Support services are provided to youth and adults with a complexity of needs and circumstances and who may be diagnosed with: ASD/autism, developmental exceptionalities, ADD, FASD, ABI and/or face emotional, behavioural or social challenges.