About Us

Organizational Description:

The ABLE Network is a non-profit, fee for service organization based in Aurora, Ontario. Caring community members and parents, who want to promote more opportunities for young adults with intellectual disabilities to live well-rounded lives in their local community, have formed this new program. Members have experience with developmental service agencies, in community health and human services, business development and management, fundraising, and education.

When fully operational this program will provide services for 15-20 young adults with an intellectual disability who have finished high school. The program will develop and support employment opportunities (paid, unpaid or volunteer) and related community participation in natural settings. All activities will be insured by the ABLE Network. There will be mutual benefits to both the community and participants.

Board of Directors:

• Joan Hurst
• Barb Allan
• Jennifer Mitchinson
• Nancy Bennett
• Raz Khamissa

ABLE network has based its service model on best practice.

Research and best practices for persons with an ID suggest that inclusion of persons with a developmental disability in natural settings provides them with an equal opportunity to make a contribution to the health and well being of their community. The presence of people with a disability in the community workplace has the ability to bring about transformational change and learning in those working with them (Frank, 2005).

Individuals with developmental and other disabilities should be able to live their lives as fully as possible in typical neighborhoods in usual communities. Fundamental to this belief is that with appropriate supports participation will occur, benefits will be derived, and contributions will be made as a result of the involvement of these citizens in the array of activities that occur in all communities. It is this expectation of community participation that is the driving force guiding the extensive system of human service programs provided for children and adults with developmental and other disabilities. Regardless of whether it is functional or transition skills taught by educators, job counseling or training provided by vocational rehabilitation specialists, on-the-job training by job coaches or independent living skills from independent living centers, the goal for individuals remains the same: living life in the community! Impact

Community based or individual based programs assist individuals to acquire social skills, transportation skills, independence and a sense that they are valued and contributing members of society (Miglore, 2006).