A.C.E. Program (Abilities, Challenges, Exceptionalities) is a social/recreational-based program

for youth and adults with Special Needs. We have been in operation in the Ottawa area for 20 years!

We have numerous recreational, life skills and vocational activities scheduled throughout the week both n program and the community.

Our programming includes cooking, baking, music therapy, yoga, Zumba and social enterprise through our iCAN group. Our Participants enjoy weekly community-based outings to build on life skills and community involvement. Our staffing team is comprised of trained and compassionate individuals that provide a safe, stimulating, and engaging environment for our participants

who have a range of abilities and needs.

Participants in our Day Service program are assigned to a group of peers and staff and volunteer members. Through group interaction, participants engage in various activities throughout the day.

Our program places equal emphasis on educational, social and recreational sessions.

There are also planned outings providing participants an opportunity to interact with old friends and to make new ones.

Recreation

Recreation is encouraged through monthly bowling outings, seasonal swims and team sport/leisure activities. Our program also offers a music-based exercise program that is run on Mondays and Friday mornings prior to program start.

Time is allotted for individual ‘Range of Motion’ programs or occupational therapy programs during physical activity time. Relaxation is promoted through ‘snoezelen-type’ sessions.

Education

The educational component has a focus to maintain acquired skills. Each day of the month has an assigned activity. There are group discussions, activity sheets, novel studies, computer work and hands on games that participants are able to enjoy and learn from.

School-based subjects such as math, science, reading, writing, history and geography are covered during the month. Fine motor skills are developed and maintained through crafting activities done three times/week. Gross motor activities to enhance and maintain large motor muscles are offered within a fun, supportive manner throughout the daily program.

Music Therapy

Music Therapy is provided by “Musical Wellness”, by Nigel Harris. We enjoy all genres of music and play along with our selection of instruments. Nigel will even take requests! Karaoke is also a favourite of many of our participants.

Life Skills

Cooking and Nutrition is a favored life skill of all participants. We have designated days set aside for each group to prepare a budget, shop for ingredients, and cook the meal.

The nutritional component teaches proper eating habits and focuses on Canada’s food guide.

Other life skills that are taught are household chores, community safety, fire prevention and safety and community awareness.