Community Participation Supports

The Baking Fundamentals Skills Development and Employment Program, offered in partnership with Karis Disability Services and Humber Polytechnic, is a four-month program designed to provide individuals with intellectual disabilities the opportunity to develop meaningful skills and gain hands-on experience. Students receive practical baking training from industry professional chefs at Humber Polytechnic’s state-of-the-art kitchen facilities. Additionally, they acquire essential employment soft skills through Karis. The program runs for one semester, from May 5 to August 18, 2025.

Course Highlights:

• Hands on baking lab training from professional chefs.

• Humber College Certificate.

• Employment readiness curriculum.

• Unpaid placement experience.

• 14-week sessions - Mondays (in lab), Tuesdays & Wednesdays on campus classes.
  

  
  

Eligibility:

• 18 years & over

• Has a Developmental Disability

• A passion for baking

• Able to provide own transportation

• Can attend placements & labs independently

• Flexible hours

• Access to computer & internet

• ODSP/Insurance coverage required

  
  

Registration Notes

• Tuition fees to be determined.

• **PLEASE NOTE: Registering does not guarantee you a spot in this program. All applicants must apply with the attached application and follow up with an interview.

• May be subject to change without notice. No Refunds - credit issued to account **Program will be closed on holidays.

Karis Waldheim Community Participation Supports are located from the Horizons Centre in Waldheim, Saskatchewan, and extend into the surrounding communities of Waldheim, Hepburn, and Warman. This inclusive program supports people to explore their interests, build skills, and participate in meaningful community experiences—both within the Horizons Centre and throughout the local area.

Programming is flexible and person-directed, offering a variety of activities that promote personal growth, creativity, and connection. People are encouraged to try new things, deepen existing interests, and engage with their community in ways that matter to them.

Activities and Experiences

Participants can take part in a variety of experiences, including:

• Crafting and painting

• Puzzling and games

• Exercise sessions

• Baking and cooking

• Life skills development

• Music and pet therapy

• Community outings and social events

Community Engagement

Building strong community connections is a key part of the program. Activities may include:

• Monthly coffee mornings

• Pancake breakfasts and special lunches

• Reading time with the local librarian

• Collaborations with local schools and organizations

• Virtual and phone connections with family and friends

• Participating as vendors at local markets

The Horizons Centre is also home to two friendly cats, who help create a warm and comforting environment for everyone involved.

Our Approach 

• Support Ratios: 1:1 and 1:5, depending on the activity 

• Person-Directed Planning: Supports are tailored to each person’s strengths, goals, and preferences 

• Eligibility: Open to people aged 18+ with a developmental disability

Karis Almaguin’s Community Participation Supports offer inclusive, community-based experiences that celebrate local culture and connection. Through the Community Connections initiative, people are supported to explore and engage with the unique people, places, and events in the Almaguin region. From seasonal gatherings and pop-up markets to dances and local tours, the program creates opportunities for meaningful participation and belonging. 

With a focus on collaboration and creativity, this program taps into local talent and resources to build strong community ties. Whether it’s discovering hidden gems or helping organize events, people are encouraged to share their interests and shape their own experiences. 

Our Approach 

• Support Ratios: 1:1 and 1:5, depending on the activity

• Person-Directed Planning: Supports are tailored to each person’s strengths, goals, and preferences

• Flexible Participation: If a different support ratio is needed for a specific event, this will be communicated during registration

• Eligibility: Open to people aged 18+ with Autism Spectrum Disorder or a developmental disability

At Karis Niagara, Community Participation Supports include a focused employment and volunteer initiative known as Pathways, which helps people explore meaningful roles in their community. Through this initiative, people are supported to build skills, gain confidence, and pursue inclusive opportunities that reflect their interests and strengths.

Supports may include job readiness training, job coaching, on-the-job support, and workplace accommodations. In addition to employment-related experiences, people can take part in creative activities, public events, and volunteer opportunities that foster connection and personal growth.

Our Approach 

• Support Ratios: 1:1, 1:2, or 1:3, depending on the activity 

• Person-Directed Planning: Supports are tailored to each person’s strengths, goals, and preferences 

• Flexible Participation: If a different support ratio is needed for a specific event, this will be communicated during registration 

• Eligibility: Open to people aged 18+ with a developmental disability