Options
Lifelong Learning
Options focuses on post-secondary learning and exploring personal interests. With a dynamic and inclusive environment that encourages participants to take charge of their future through hands-on experiences, community connections, and individualized learning pathways, Options promotes independence, self-awareness, and confidence.
The Routine
Semester System
Options follows a semester-based structure designed to support independent learners through a flexible and engaging format. Operating on a four-to-one support staff ratio, participants benefit from individualized attention while maintaining the freedom to make their own choices and take ownership of their learning. The program runs on a three-semester cycle, with each semester lasting four months. At the start of every semester, participants select the programs and learning opportunities that align with their personal goals and interests—whether academic, vocational, or recreational, they then spend the semester exploring these interests.
Learning Programs may include:
- Nutrition
- Financial Literacy
- Volunteering
- Languages
Identifying Interests
Self-Directed Learning
Participants take an active role in shaping their own learning journey by choosing the interests and topics they want to explore. This structure encourages self-direction, responsibility, and exploration, allowing individuals to build skills and confidence in an environment that fosters independence and personal growth.
Some learning opportunities that participants have created for themselves include:
- Learning Mandarin
- Taking care of cats with GVAC
- Podcasting
- Tending the garden to table program at Topaz School
- Learning Sign Language
- Researching and presenting on why people have different coloured eyes
The Goals
Lifelong Learning
A semester-based program supports continual learning and improvement for participants.
Skill Development
Through their learning streams, participants develop and practice new skills, such as interpersonal skills, research and presentation skills, and public engagement skills.
Employment
As participants learn and expand their skills, some choose to work towards part-time employment alongside attending Options.
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 I know if Options is the right fit?
Options supports independent individuals with an interest in lifelong learning and growth at a four-to-one staff ratio.
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.
Instead of fitting individuals into preset boxes, we build experiences around each person. Our flexible approach means each individual’s day, activities, and community are all designed to reflect who they are and what they want out of life. This means not everyone in a specific program are doing the same thing at the same time.
What is the schedule for Options?
Options is a day program that runs Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, but each persons’ schedule is flexible. Participants choose the days that fit their life, while still enjoying all the resources, activities, and guidance we offer.
Where is Options located?
Options has a home base at the Vancouver Island Technology Park, but we don’t stay put! Participants regularly head out to explore community locations, participate in activities, and experience new environments. It’s the best of both worlds: the comfort of a familiar space and the excitement of something new every week.
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 Options
Learning and Employment
Day programs and life supports focused on building community, independence, and personal growth through post-secondary learning, employment, and life skills.