At the Options program, we work in partnership with individuals with developmental disabilities, and their families, friends and communities.
Options is dedicated to creating welcoming, inclusive communities where everyone can contribute their skills and talents. We work in the city of Toronto, supporting children and adults, their families and surrounding communities. We work with community organizations, developmental service agencies, and schools, in order to create community connections.
Our focus is on equity and inclusion and is guided by a person-directed approach, allowing us to support and empower individuals and families.
Community Resource Facilitators support children, youth and their families/caregivers to reach their desired goals. This is accomplished through advocacy within the school and health care systems, referrals to community service providers and supportive counselling. We also offer workshops, which provide opportunities for connections and knowledge sharing among parents. For information and/or referrals please call 416.971.6326 x317 or email [email protected]
Community Resource Facilitators collaborate with individuals, families and caregivers to reach their desired goals. This is accomplished through service coordination, community connections, circles of support, advocacy and supportive counselling. Our approach is to break down barriers and find ways to facilitate interconnected lives within family groups and communities. This service can only be accessed through Developmental Services Ontario (DSO).
Community Networking is a process that challenges and invites ordinary places to be more inclusive. Community Network Facilitators work with individuals, families, small groups and community organizations to explore and build connections with community places and people. Our work supports individuals to explore their interests and enhance their community involvement. This service is only available if you are already an Options client.
The goal of Co-ordinated Service Planning (CSP) is to improve service experiences and outcomes for children and youth with multiple and/or complex special needs and their families through the support of a Service Planning Co-ordinator. The co-ordinator will connect them to multiple, cross-sectoral services and monitor their needs and progress through a Co-ordinated Service Plan. Inquiries for this service can be made by calling 1-833-575-KIDS (5437).
Now that your adult child/sibling/student is registered with DSO, what services are available to them? When and how can those services be accessed? When should you call DSO and what can you ask for? How can caregivers keep a record of contact with various services and how can they get a break?
This workshop covers:
Resources:
As a caregiver to someone with a developmental disability, you’ve become familiar with services and supports for children, but what happens when that child turns 18? This workshop, facilitated by Kelly Casey of KC Professional Solutions, will guide you in your preparation for the transition to adult developmental services, including how to prepare, what to do and when, and how to begin planning for the future.
This workshop covers:
As the caregiver of a person with a disability, you do everything you can to protect the well-being of the person you care for. Despite this, sometimes crises arise that require the involvement of additional supports in order to safely manage or resolve the situation.
This workshop covers:
Content Summary: Many parents and caregivers of people with developmental disabilities recognize the importance of discussing sexuality and healthy relationships with the people they care for, but sometimes don’t know how. This workshop will empower you with the information you need to meaningfully educate the person you care for.
This workshop covers:
As a result of COVID-19, many services have moved online and offices have temporarily closed, creating a greater reliance on technology to access services and supports. If you are a caregiver of a person with a disability who is finds using technology confusing and overwhelming, this workshop is for you!
This workshop covers how to use Zoom effectively:
This workshop is offered by Family Service Toronto at no cost. It is funded by United Way of Greater Toronto and the Government of Canada.
Download the presentation (pdf)
Are you the primary caregiver for someone with a disability? Do you have a plan in case something happens and you’re not able to provide care? While everyone hopes this moment will never come, preparing an emergency plan will give you peace of mind that the person you care for will be safe.
This workshop covers:
In order for a child to become an Options client, a parent, caregiver, or another individual supporting the child can call the Intake line directly at (416) 971-6326 ext. 317.
To become an Options client as an adult, you will need to apply to the DSO, and be referred to us by the DSO. You cannot obtain Options services by contacting Options directly.
The Options intake worker will provide you with some ideas about how/where to get an assessment for your child, but they are not eligible for service at Options unless they have a diagnosed developmental disability
Yes. The waitlist for adult services is held at the DSO. The waitlist for children’s services with Options is held with the Options program.
Options does not provide funding or financial resources for clients.
As an Options client, you may still receive services from other agencies (such as day programs, respite services, housing, and employment services). You may not have a second case manager through another agency.
Options is government-funded, so it will not cost you personal funding to access our services.
To find information about student placements at Family Service Toronto, please explore the ‘Student Placements’ section of the Family Service Toronto website.
To find out about volunteering in the Options program, please explore the ‘Volunteer at FST’ section of the website. If you are currently an Options client and are interested in assisting with the Options newsletter, please contact your Options worker.
Advocates Voice of Power is a group for adults with disabilities to connect and work together for positive social change. We welcome new members from across the city of Toronto. You do not need to be an Options client to join. Please contact Leah at (416) 971-6326 ext. 222 to find out more.
Best Buddies is an international program dedicated to breaking down barriers between people and erasing misconceptions about individuals with developmental disabilities. The program creates opportunities for one-to-one friendships by matching Options clients with volunteer university students. Contact your Options worker if you are interested in the best buddies program
Advocates for a Better Future welcomes adults with developmental disabilities who want to connect with one another and take action on issues of common concern. For more information, please call (416) 415-5000 ext. 3002 and leave a message with your name and number.
In this series, parents of adult children with developmental disabilities will share their experiences and knowledge with parents of younger children. For more information about this workshop, please call (416) 971-6326 ext. 317 and leave a message with your name and number.
The Community Times newsletter is made twice a year by a group of volunteers, who are generally Options clients. The volunteers set a theme for each issue and share their voices through personal stories, articles, poetry, art and interviews that inspire community. For more information contact Ruth (416) 971-6326 ext. 235 and leave a message with your name and number.
Clients, parents, and caregivers in the Building Inclusive Communities Programs were invited to participate in a conversation about their experiences with Options and Passport services. Data was collected through two virtual group consultations and individual phone calls. The Family Service Toronto – Building Inclusive Communities Virtual Stakeholder Consultation Report is a summary of conversations that took place. Family Service Toronto would like to thank the clients and parents who were able to participate on such short notice, and for sharing their personal stories and feedback with us.
Options is offered at the following location(s):