LifeStreams
Going Above and Beyond
LifeStreams is an innovative learning program available to all Garth Homer Society clients designed to create opportunities and learning experiences that they may not have access to in their regular supports. Rooted in experiential learning and community connection, LifeStreams supports people in increasing their independence and autonomy.
Increase Independence
Individual Learning
LifeStreams offers individualized one-to-one support designed to help clients build confidence, independence, and practical life skills through experiential learning. Each client begins by identifying personal goals and connecting with LifeStreams for hands-on project based support. When a client’s goal is achieved, staff step back—empowering individuals to carry their new skills forward.
Individual life skill development may include:
- Bus training, for confidence taking transit alone
- Employment supports
- Technology skills
Increase Autonomy
Group Learning
LifeStreams counselors identify skills clients would benefit from and create supportive, engaging opportunities for them to learn in a small group. Staff observe clients’ needs, strengths, and interests, then design group activities that build practical life skills, social connections, and confidence. These programs provide a collaborative environment where clients can learn from staff and from one another.
Some group learning opportunities include:
- Communications workshops
- Dance Your Abilities, for personal expression without words
- CAYA training
- Hobby Club, to develop life skills through enjoyment
The Goals
Independence
Additional support in developing life skills allows participants to increase their autonomy and independence.
Skill Development
Individuals continue to grow and develop new skills through one-on-one, group supports, and experiential learning.
Employment
As participants learn and expand their skills, they move towards being ready for employment.
Community Connection
Relationships that benefit participants and our broader Victoria community are forged through community events and relationship building.
Build Relationships
Community Connections
LifeStreams builds strong connections with the broader community by creating meaningful opportunities for clients to participate, engage, and contribute. By integrating Garth Homer into community spaces, events, and partnerships, staff help showcase the unique strengths, talents, and perspectives clients bring. This approach not only broadens clients’ experiences but also highlights their value within the community, leading to future partnerships and opportunities.
Community events have included:
- Paint the Town
- Holiday Market
- Art Intervention on Lochside Trail
Educational Support for Young Adults
Future Forge
Specially designed for graduating students with diverse abilities, Future Forge provides eight weeks of instruction with vocational counsellors to build participant’s skills in areas like resume building, job search strategies, interview practice and professional letter writing. Helping the students recognize their individual strengths, and teaching them about worker’s rights, responsibilities and workplace safety, are also covered to help with career exploration.
The Five Pillars of Learning
Learning, practicing, and developing skills through hands on experience and reflection.
Learning kinesthetically and developing a strong mind-body connection. Nurturing physical well-being to support overall mental health.
Developing social skills, learning how to get along with others, practicing problem-solving, and understanding what it truly means to be an active and responsible member of a shared group.
Learning and actively considering how you can help your community and taking meaningful steps to make the world a better, more compassionate place.
Developing confidence, learning and exploring personal identity, lateral thinking, and practicing altruism.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do clients connect with LifeStreams?
Clients are connected to LifeStreams through their key worker, who helps facilitate the partnership and supports the individual as they build the skills they want to develop.
When are LifeStreams counselors available?
LifeStreams vocational counselors are available during our regular programming times: Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM.
Where is LifeStreams located?
LifeStreams has a home base at the Vancouver Island Technology Park, but when providing support—whether one-on-one or in groups—staff travel to the programming spaces of the participants they’re working with.
What types of supports are offered?
Rooted in experiential learning and community connection, LifeStreams responds directly to client goals through flexible one-to-one skill-building, group programs, and creative community partnerships.
What if LifeStreams can't support the skill development needed?
When LifeStreams can’t offer what someone needs, they bridge the gap by connecting clients with community resources, volunteer opportunities, and broader networks that have the ability to support the specific life skill development desired.
Access Our Services
It all starts with Community Living BC (CLBC), the provincial crown agency. They work with individuals, families, service providers and other key members on an individual’s care team to determine funding eligibility and provide options. The Garth Homer Society is partially funded by Community Living BC, and almost all of our clients are referred to us through their services.
Determining Fit
Each individual’s journey at Garth Homer begins with a conversation around what it is that they would like their life to look like. This conversation is how we determine which program is the right fit for each person.
Our programs bring together peers with shared interests and needs, fostering real connection and belonging. Every plan is personalized, flexible, and built around the individual, ensuring each person is never just placed into a preset program, they help create it.
Programs don’t define people, people define the programs.
What’s Happening in LifeStreams
Learning and Employment
Day programs and life supports focused on building community, independence, and personal growth through post-secondary learning, employment, and life skills.