Finding Belonging
Programming made to fit each individual
At Garth Homer, People Come First
Our programs begin by identifying real needs and responding to them thoughtfully. Rather than asking people to fit into pre-designed criteria, we design and adapt programs around the individuals we support. This personalized approach means each individual’s experience at Garth Homer is unique.
Individualized Programming
People-Centred Approach
Every relationship Garth Homer has begins with the question: What do you want your life to look like?
Once clients are referred through CLBC, we meet with individuals and their families to truly get to know them—what they enjoy, what they don’t, what excites them, and what matters most.
After learning about the client’s goals, passions, and personality, Individuals then take part in a 4–6 month trial period in the program that best aligns with the life they want to live. This trial helps ensure the fit feels right, and we remain flexible, exploring and trying other programs whenever needed, until the right place is found.
Goal Setting
Individual Program Plan
Once clients are settled into Garth Homer, they develop an Individual Program Plan (IPP) with the help of their key worker. An IPP is a long term goal setting tool that prompts clients to think about what they want to accomplish over the next three years. Each client’s Individual Program Plan guides how they spend their days at Garth Homer.
Goal Setting
Clients are supported to set goals for the next three years, choosing how they want to spend their time and what they hope to achieve.
Action Plan
These long-term goals are broken down into a series of short-term goals using the goal setting framework (such as SMART goals) that works best for each individual. From there, a personalized action plan is created to guide and shape their day-to-day programming.
Four Month Check-Ins
Clients review their IPP with their key worker every four months. These regular check-ins ensure goals still feel right, progress is being made, and to move forward when it’s time to take the next step. These regular check-ins help ensure individuals are supported in creating the life they want, with Garth Homer there to help make it possible.
Creating Connection
Key Worker
Every client at Garth Homer Society is supported by a key worker. A key worker is a dedicated support person who works closely with each individual and their family, helping them work toward their goal and oversee all documentation, including IPP goal setting and supports. By developing a trusting relationship, key workers ensure individualized programming and supports are tailored to the person’s needs. For families, the key worker is the main point of contact, sharing updates and staying connected.
What’s Happening At Garth Homer
Service Areas
We have four key program and service areas: Community Inclusion, services for people who are aging (Geriatrics), Learning and Employment, and Residential Services. There’s no one-size-fits-all at Garth Homer. Our program opportunities are tailored to the needs and interests of participants, to make sure there are rewarding experiences for people with a range of abilities and goals.