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9:00 AM - 8:00 PM
JOURNEY TO INDEPENDENCE

A personalized skill development program for individuals with diverse abilities, designed to empower confidence and independence.

What iS JOURNEY TO INDEPENDENCE?
Empowering Confidence, Building Independence

Journey To Independence is a comprehensive, fee-for-service residential skill development program based in Orillia, specifically designed for individuals with diverse abilities who are striving to live more independently. This outcomes-focused program offers a personalized approach to skill-building, where each participant receives a tailored plan based on their unique strengths, goals, and support needs. Through structured, hands-on learning in a fully accessible residential setting, participants gain the practical, real-world skills necessary to confidently navigate everyday life.

The program covers essential areas of independent living, including financial management, household responsibilities, employment readiness, social skills, and personal care. Participants are guided by experienced, caring professionals who provide individualized support and mentorship, helping them to overcome challenges and celebrate their progress. Whether it’s learning how to manage a budget, prepare meals, or build meaningful relationships, Journey To Independence equips individuals with the tools they need to enhance their autonomy and achieve their personal goals.

With a flexible approach and a focus on measurable outcomes, Journey To Independence offers a supportive environment where participants can learn, grow, and take meaningful steps toward independence.

"We believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to live with independence and confidence. The Journey To Independence program provides the personalized support and practical skills that empower individuals to take control of their future and thrive."

~Dr. Claudine Cousins, Empower Simcoe Chief Executive Officer

What You’ll Learn
Essential Life Skills for Greater Independence

Financial Management

Learn how to budget, save, and manage your finances to achieve greater independence.

Household Management

Develop skills necessary to live independently at home, like cooking, cleaning, and home safety.

Employment Readiness

Build your resume, practice job search strategies, and sharpen your interview skills to prepare for the workplace.

Social & Communication Skills

Strengthen your ability to build relationships, solve conflicts, and communicate effectively in various situations.

Personal Care

Gain confidence in managing your health, personal hygiene, and advocating for yourself in healthcare settings.

Community Engagement

Learn how to navigate local resources, volunteer, and participate in community activities to stay connected and engaged.

ROADMAP
How Journey To INDEPENDENCE Works
Assessment & Intake

Begin with a personalized life skills assessment to determine your goals.

Customized Plan

Our team will work with you to develop a tailored support plan focused on your unique needs.

Skill Building

Learn and practice new skills in a safe, supportive environment with hands-on guidance.

Progress Tracking

Your growth and achievements are tracked throughout the program, with regular updates and adjustments to your plan.

Achieve Independence

Upon completion, you’ll have the confidence and skills to live more independently.

WHY CHOOSE US

A fully accessible, six-bedroom residential home

Individualized support plans created just for you

Comprehensive life skills training tailored to your needs

Professional, caring staff dedicated to helping you succeed

Short-term stay focused on long-term skill development

Flexible, outcomes-oriented programming designed to meet your goals

Frequently asked questions

Journey To Independence is designed for individuals 18+ years of age with diverse abilities who want to live more independently.

Program duration depends on individual goals and progress, typically ranging from several weeks to a few months.

The program is an unfunded resource, available on a fee-for-service basis. This means that participants pay for the customized services they receive, either directly or using Passport Funds.

The Journey To Independence skill development program will be rooted in the premise that the person accessing this program will drive their support and plan. Each person in this program will have a robust Individual Support Plan/ skill development plan developed in collaboration with the person and their circle of support. The ISP/Skill development plan will identify short- and long-term goals, and the staff team will work religiously with the person to accomplish their goals.

Contact us using the form below or call to request an intake package and personalized assessment.

We understand that choosing the right program is a big decision, and you may have questions about how 'Journey To Independence' works. So we’ve compiled answers to some of the most common questions to help guide you through the process. If you don’t find the information you need, feel free to reach out to us directly—we’re here to help!
Journey To INDEPENDENCE
Let's GET stARTED
neEd help? call us
705 726-9082
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Name
39 Fraser Court
Barrie, ON
L4N 5J5
inQUIRIES@EMPOWERSIMCOE.CA
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