About STEPs on Arthur
Did you know?
STEPs on Arthur currently supports people between the ages of 19 and 70, with no mandatory retirement age.
Seven of our clients live in apartments provided by STEPs.
STEPs recycles approximately 100,000 lbs of books each year, sending them to Green Fibre to be made into insulation, and approximately 68,000 lbs of scrap metal and covered wire are diverted from the landfill by our social enterprises.
STEPs on Arthur believes that every person has the right to full engagement in their community and supports people in their own personal plan of participation.
Such a plan will look different for everyone and as a result, STEPs offers a wide spectrum of options for consideration. People may choose to participate in one, two or all three of our streams of service.
Our Purpose
STEPs offers people the opportunity to build the skills necessary for employment. This may include resume development, job readiness training, customer service skills, task breakdowns and support with understanding company policies and procedures.
Supported employment refers to waged employment offered at STEPs in one of our social enterprises or contracts programs. During times of supported employment, clients are working with the support of an Instructor, who ensures that all completed work meets the necessary standards.
Community Employment refers to a waged employment position with an employer other than STEPs. If appropriate, a job coach will support the client in the training components of their new position and gradually withdraw, as the Employee and Employer gain confidence in the relationship.
Employment Programs
Education and training opportunities are offered regularly throughout the week at STEPs. This may include financial literacy, technology support, Around the World (geography and culture), reading, writing, nutrition, sign language, etc.
Instructors recognize that people learn at different paces, and in different ways, and work closely with each individual to determine their unique learning style.
Education/Training Programs
STEPs recognizes the benefits of active living and socializing with peers. Each day, clients may choose to engage in various activities such as drum fit, games group, walking program, access to the recreation area, music program, artistic expressions, cooking, etc.
This program also offers the opportunity to explore our community and our province, participating in cultural events, visiting parks and tourist attractions or other special events. If a client expresses an interest in a leisure pursuit, we will do our best to incorporate it into their week.
Life Enhancement Programs
Volunteerism is an important component in any community and when a client expresses a desire to participate in such a way, staff will assist in finding a placement of interest to the individual. STEPs will only commit to this support for traditional volunteer positions, such as other not for profits and charities. STEPs will not support clients in volunteering for work which would typically receive a wage.
Volunteerism
“STEPs on Arthur has brought so many positive opportunities for my daughter and our family. She gained an extended family where she feels safe, included and has lots of opportunities to grow and develop her self-worth. I am so grateful everyday for this wonderful and magical place. STEPs on Arthur is truly life changing for their clients.”
Family Member