Options Mississauga is dedicated to helping adults with mild intellectual disabilities realize their employment goals.
Our Programs
Options Mississauga offers four employment training programs for adults diagnosed with a mild intellectual disability. Along with teaching skills that apply to the industries each program represents, all programs will help build general transferable skills such as: business etiquette, time management, teamwork, and confidence in the work environment.
What Do We Mean by 'Employment?'
The general definition of 'employment,' as understood by the general populous, tends to refer to a means of supporting one's self. The goals that many strive for are full-time participation, career progression, and achieving high wages---among others.
While some people we support can and do transition into paid private sector employment, many realistically are not going to sustain this type of employment. For most people with a mild intellectual disability, 'employment' often means something different. For them, employment means having a sense of self worth and community inclusion; the participants in our programs are often looking for part-time work---ranging from 5-20 hours per week.
Options is keenly aware of what the goals are and we try innovative approaches to meet them. The situation with employment is complex and we can provide lots of background on this issue to anyone who requests it. Just keep in mind that unemployment amongst intellectually disabled people is about 75% and has not improved significantly in the last 20 years, despite lots of resources put towards this issue.
While some people we support can and do transition into paid private sector employment, many realistically are not going to sustain this type of employment. For most people with a mild intellectual disability, 'employment' often means something different. For them, employment means having a sense of self worth and community inclusion; the participants in our programs are often looking for part-time work---ranging from 5-20 hours per week.
Options is keenly aware of what the goals are and we try innovative approaches to meet them. The situation with employment is complex and we can provide lots of background on this issue to anyone who requests it. Just keep in mind that unemployment amongst intellectually disabled people is about 75% and has not improved significantly in the last 20 years, despite lots of resources put towards this issue.
