Community Support Options

The Community Services Options program began in 1987 in response to the increasing desire for clients to access community employment opportunities. In this program, clients are supported in their efforts to participate as employees in a variety of businesses in Grande Prairie. Schedules vary; some clients work a half-day a week while others work full time. The clients are supervised in the workplace until they are accustomed to the routine and are able to perform work independently. Supported employment is competitive paid employment. Many options are available to clients who wish to participate in the community, either in a work experience or in a volunteer capacity. Individuals may have a number of work experiences, prior to finding one they wish to participate in long term. In some situations, employers may choose to give the client an honorarium for their time and effort.