À Propos

Le parcours communautaire

Le parcours communautaire offre une voie significative et flexible aux étudiants présentant des handicaps intellectuels, développementaux, psychologiques ou physiques — y compris ceux ayant des besoins plus complexes — afin de vivre avec du soutien, de participer activement à leur communauté et de poursuivre des objectifs personnels dans des domaines tels que l’emploi, les loisirs et l’apprentissage tout au long de leur vie.

Ce parcours reconnaît les forces et défis uniques de chaque étudiant et met l'accent sur l'inclusion, l'indépendance et l'épanouissement personnel. Avec les éléments de soutien appropriés en place, les étudiants peuvent s’épanouir dans des environnements qui respectent leur dignité et favorisent leur développement.

Three people converse outside in an educational setting

A person wearing a backpack smiles and looks away from the camera

This pathway might include:

✓

Living at home, in a supported living environment, or independently

✓

Engaging in opportunities as an active community member, including participating in socialization, recreation, volunteering, sports, and arts programs

✓

Participating in meaningful employment opportunities, such as part-time work or supported employment

✓

Taking part in educational and community-based life-long learning programs

✓

Building essential independence skills in all areas of living including cooking, budgeting, and navigating one's community

✓

Engaging in cultural or spiritual programs and activities

Transitioning out of Secondary School

We understand that the transition from secondary school to adulthood can feel daunting—like stepping into the unknown. This is a common experience for many students and their families, especially when the familiar supports available during the school years begin to change or fade, and adult services may seem harder to access or coordinate.

But here’s the good news: you are not alone.

There is a strong network of support available to help guide you through this important life transition. In addition to school staff, family members/caregivers, and case managers (where applicable), many organizations featured on this site are dedicated to helping students and their families navigate this transition with confidence.

To make the most of these resources, it’s important to:

Start early

Planning ahead gives you time to explore options and make informed decisions.

Build your support team

This can include school personnel, community service providers, health care providers, caregivers, and advocates.

Understand the process

Knowing the paperwork, timelines, and roles of different services will help you move forward smoothly.

Take a holistic view

This transition is not just about services—it’s about building a life filled with growth, connection, and meaning.

Learning About the Community Pathway

With the right planning and support, students pursuing the community pathway can successfully transition to adulthood with purpose, dignity, and joy. Sometimes, the best way to understand this pathway is by hearing from people who live it every day.

To learn more about this pathway, you can:

✓

Talk to adults with disabilities about their experiences.

✓

Connect with the Developmental Services Ontario office in your area to discuss available services and resources.

✓

Contact March of Dimes or other employment support agencies to discuss employment supports available in your community.

✓

Contact a Developmental Services and/or Community Living agency near you and ask about tours, info sessions, or youth programs.

✓

Ask questions at open houses or community fairs.

✓

Attend transition fairs or community events hosted by schools, colleges, or service providers.

Your Next Steps

This pathway is flexible and individualized—but it takes planning. Transition planning is not a single conversation but a process that will evolve over time. Knowing what services and supports are available, what supports you need, and how to access your required supports are all key to a successful transition from school to community. With this in mind, the next section provides information on community-based services and resources available to support the transition to adulthood for those in the community pathway.