Group Programs
Group program services offer unique experiences in small groups, that aim to provide social connection, independent skill development and recreation exploration for children, youth, and adults. Programs are available virtually and in some communities across Canada, in-person.
Young Adults Group Programs
Ages 16+
Our group programs aim to provide a safe and inclusive space for young adults to cultivate life skills, self-discovery, self-care and community engagement, while being supported by peers through life’s transitions. We explore a variety of topics that relate to:
- social and interpersonal relationships
- education, employment and/or volunteer readiness
- leadership or entrepreneurship
- recreation and leisure interests
- dating and healthy relationships
- identity and culture
- physical wellness through sports and movement
Each program will contribute to inclusive and accessible opportunities and promote healthy avenues of independence. To explore our program descriptions and outcomes, view our Group Program Guide, 2025.
For more information please call us at 1-877-855-7070 or
groups@recrespite.com
PROFESSIONALS OR ORGANIZATIONS
To explore the full list of available outcome-based group programs that your organization could partner for delivery in-person or virtually, please visit our Group services, Professionals Page.
Teens Group Programs
Ages 13 – 18
Spring schedule: Tuesdays, May 6 – June 10, from 6:30-7:30 ET
(8pm NT/ 7:30pm AT/ 5:30pm CT/ 4:30pm MT/ 3:30pm PT)
Fall schedule: To be announced.
Click here to express interest in participating in this series.
This initiative was prepared by Recreational Respite in partnership with thee Bereaved Families of Ontario – Toronto and Autism Canada. While financially supported by the Children’s Grief Foundation of Canada, Recreational Respite Inc is solely responsible for all content.
Children and Youth Programs
Group programs have been developed with and for children and youth (ages 5+) with disabilities to address a variety of interests, skill practice, goals and outcomes that promote play, inclusion, encourage community participation and nurture social connectivity with others. These unique small groups offer a variety of thematic and interactive opportunities for:
- self growth
- developing new and healthy friendships
- discover a sense of self, worth and role
- embrace identity and culture
- engage in sports and recreational interests
In person group programs are available in partnership with other organizations, to maximize the opportunities for participation in various communities across Canada.
For more information please call us at 1-877-855-7070 or
groups@recrespite.com
PROFESSIONALS OR ORGANIZATIONS
To explore the full list of available outcome-based group programs that your organization could partner for delivery in-person or virtually, please visit our Group services, Professionals Page.
Older Adult Group Programs
Recreational Respite offers a holistic approach to improving the lives of older adults with group programs that aim to enhance physical health, social engagement, emotional well-being, and cognitive stimulation. Seniors with changes in access to services, or changes to health can be supported through diverse and tailored therapeutic programs. Our supports identify and address barriers to participation, and increase opportunities for recreation participation, which is critical for emotional wellness, physical activity, social health and connectivity with others.
Our seniors group programs are currently available in community partnership work with seniors in various communities to target:
- improve mental health
- promote connectivity with others
- reduction of loneliness
- maintain independent skills
- explore recreational interests
For more information please call us at 1-877-855-7070 or
groups@recrespite.com
PROFESSIONALS OR ORGANIZATIONS
To explore the full list of available outcome-based group programs that your organization could partner for delivery in-person or virtually, please visit our Group services, Professionals Page.
Testimonials
It was great to collaborate some online sessions with Recreational Respite and organize programming for our families in the FASD program. Great teaching for all age groups available and we look forward to running more programming.
Jody (Woods Homes, Alberta)
I wanted to share how much we enjoy the programs for new experiences and friends. My son shared his special interest in construction with a facilitator and they created a program! He is looking forward to participating in STEM Mighty Machines this week. Thank you!
Parent (Ontario)
My son has tried one of the session – a dance one. He loved it. Dimitrios was kind and caring and patient. We were very impressed and happy for the support and opportunity to try something new. We have two sessions this week. We look forward to them!
Parent (Ontario)
Sarah has been loving the programs. She thinks its a great way to meet new people but with much less anxiety. She loves that she can do it from home where she feels comfortable but still able to learn and do cool new things. She thinks that the groups are good at making the material understandable to her comprehension level. She thinks it would be a cool idea to do a virtual group where there might be some singing, or a zumba like group. Overall, Sarah is absolutely loving these groups and talks about them nonstop. She is really hoping these continue as she looks forward to them daily.
Parent (BC)
We are really thankful for this program. Raquel struggles with communication so any chances she has to practice we consider it a good thing. She is a tough cookie to crack but we will keep pushing her to be involved because she really needs programs like this whether she agrees with us or not . It has been very important to her development socially. I think you guys are doing a great job offering this service during these ever changing times.