Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about membership, attendance, funding and joining ThriveAbility...
Who is ThriveAbility for?
ThriveAbility is a group-based program, not a one-to-one behavioural or clinical support program. Our ratios are 1:6 & 1:12. Members must be able to participate safely in a group environment without continuous one-to-one supervision. We are not equipped to support individuals with significant aggression, elopement, severe disruptive behaviours or those requiring intensive behavioural intervention.
What makes ThriveAbility different from a traditional day program?
ThriveAbility combines the social and community aspects of a day program with the structure and purpose of a continued-learning environment.
Members participate in academics, life skills, employment preparation, fitness, community outings, volunteering, technology, creative programs and hands-on learning designed to build greater independence.
Is ThriveAbility an educational program?
Yes. While ThriveAbility is not a college or accredited school, continued learning is an important part of our program.
Members participate in structured learning at an appropriate level, including literacy, numeracy, technology, financial literacy, life skills and employment preparation.
Do members have to participate in programming?
Yes. ThriveAbility is an active participation program. Members are expected to engage in scheduled activities, learning opportunities, community outings and skill development to the best of their abilities.
Everyone learns differently, but our program is best suited to individuals who are interested in participating, learning and progressing.
What ages do you accept?
Our regular program is for adults 18 years and older, with no upper age limit.
During select summer programs and school breaks, we may also accept mature high-school students who are approaching adulthood.
Which days can I attend?
Members may attend 2–5 days per week, depending on program availability.
Families can choose a schedule that works for them, although regular attendance provides greater opportunities for learning, friendships and skill development.
Are you open year-round?
Yes. ThriveAbility operates throughout the year, Monday to Friday, with scheduled holiday and program closures.
Our regular program hours are 8:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m. (offering 7 full hours of daily activity).
Can I attend if I don't live in Mississauga?
Yes. We welcome members from across the Greater Toronto Area.
Families are responsible for arranging transportation to and from our Port Credit location.
Do you provide transportation?
We do not provide private transportation to and from ThriveAbility. Families are responsible for arranging daily transportation, which may include TransHelp, public transit, family transportation or other services depending on eligibility and location.
For program outings and field trips, ThriveAbility provides private transportation for the majority of activities.
Are Field Trips and Outings an Extra Cost?
No. Field trips and community outings are included in your daily program fee. This includes admission to destinations such as Ripley’s Aquarium, the Toronto Zoo, the movies, the Donkey Sanctuary of Canada, the CNE and other recreational, educational and community experiences.
When an outing requires public transit, members are responsible for their individual transit fare and should bring a loaded PRESTO card. When ThriveAbility provides private transportation, there is no additional transportation charge.