| Adolescents
with marginal intellectual abilities are particularly vulnerable
as they leave behind the relative safety of childhood.
Their handicaps now become glaringly apparent as peers shun
them and adults sometimes fail to conceal their disappointments. |
Mission:
Young adults with a mild or borderline intellectual handicap face
many challenges. They are particularly vulnerable as they make the
transition from adolescence to adulthood and must often struggle
with the realities of the adult world. The development of social
and emotional supports is particularly important at this time. The
young adult outreach program aims to provide young adults with a
much needed and readily accessible peer group. It also aims to provide
them with a challenging and supportive environment in order to help
them reach their goals for greater autonomy.
Objectives:
- to provide
young adults with a sense of belonging to a group;
- to provide
young adults with a peer group and a network of support;
- to provide
a supportive environment where young adults can discuss topics
relevant to their concerns, such as independent living, sexuality,
depression and anger management;
- to help locate
vocational resources as they prepare to leave the school system;
- to provide
individual counselling when they require additional emotional
support in coping with personal issues.
General
Description: The
majority of participants in the young adult program are 18-24 years
of age. Most of the young adults are full time students living with
their families. The majority of them hope to participate in meaningful
and challenging work and to live independently in the community.
Many of the young adults in the program will eventually participate
in the AVATIL transitional living program.
The core activity
of the AVATIL young adult outreach service is a young adult discussion
and social group. The group meets on a weekly basis (Tuesdays 5
- 7 p.m.) As well, social/recreational activities are held on alternate
Saturdays.
Outreach
to Schools: The
young adult outreach program coordinator maintains contact with
various schools that have special education programs. Yearly presentations
at a number of these schools ensure that young adults are aware
that our services exist before they leave the school system.
Parent
Groups: Meetings
for parents of young adults are held 3-4 times/year. During these
meetings, parents have the opportunity to become more familiar with
our services. They are informed of the various topics that have
been covered in the young adult group discussions. Parents also
have the opportunity to share their concerns with other parents.
The meetings have an important mutual support component.
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