STARR
Self-Esteem Through Acceptance Respect and Responsibility
STARR is a focused and purposeful program designed for individuals who take their goals seriously and strive to make a positive impact on their community. Participants approach each day with intention, engaging in meaningful activities that are centered around personal growth and making the world a better place.
Intentional Environment
Support for Impact
Participants in STARR have a deep desire to contribute, they may just need a little extra support to do so. Supported at a two-to-one ratio, the STARR program is designed for higher-needs individuals who may display complex behaviours. It utilizes individualized routines in a tailored environment with quiet sitting areas, social gathering spaces, and low lights are all tailored environmental factors.
The Routine
Day to Day
Days in STARR are focused on personalized goals that work towards improvement and community impact. Participants approach activities with intention and dedication, taking their commitments and roles within the community seriously. Every day in STARR is an opportunity to learn, improve, and make the world a better place.
Daily activities focus on:
- Volunteering with staff support
- Fundraising for areas of community need
- Gardening and sharing profits and produce with those in need
- Fitness goals
- Learning goals, such as learning sign language
The Goals
Self-Esteem
STARR builds confidence through personal growth, respect, and responsibility.
Learning and Growth
An intentional approach towards setting and achieving goals creates support and motivation.
Giving Back
A desire to contribute to the community is fostered through supported volunteering and fundraising initiatives.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if STARR is the right fit?
STARR is a focused and purposeful program designed for individuals with high support needs who take their goals seriously and strive to make a positive impact on their community.
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 STARR?
All Community Inclusion programs run Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, but each persons schedule is flexible. Each participant chooses the days that fit their life, while still enjoying all the resources, activities, and guidance we offer.
Where is STARR Located?
Community Inclusion programs are located at the former SJ Willis School Building, 923 Topaz Ave, Victoria, BC V8T 2M2, 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 STARR
Community Inclusion
Community Inclusion day programs foster belonging and purpose through community involvement and meaningful contribution. Programs are differentiated by participants’ interests and needs.