When one door closes another door opens.

UPDATE: March 12, 2026

When we first learned about the cancellation of the Academic Assistance for Adults with Developmental Disabilities (AAADD) program last May, we got to work trying to save the program. While we did not succeed in saving the AAADD program, I am happy to announce that Algonquin College has allowed Horizons Behaviour Consulting to operate a similar program in a leased space at the college. (Full details at the bottom)

On behalf of all of us I want to thank everyone who showed their support by attending the meetings and rallies, signing the petition, and spreading the word about our efforts to save the program. We could not have done it without all of your support.

An extra special thank you goes out to MPP Chandra Pasma who has supported our efforts since the very beginning. She hosted our town hall event, attended the fall rally, and spearheaded the petition that was presented in Queens Park. Send her an email to say thank you. She also has a petition to request that the provincial government increase funding for Ontario colleges and universities.

You can find it HERE.

So, it looks like this will be my final email to you. If any of you are interested in being kept up to date about events and information that relates to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, you may want to sign up for the Ottawa Family Support Network email list. I am a board member of this organization.

The Ottawa Family Support Network (OFSN) was established for the purpose of providing education, support and networking opportunities to parents and caregivers of adults with intellectual disabilities.

Warmly,

Eric Burgin

On behalf of the AAADD Family Advocacy Group

Here is a copy of the email that was sent from Algonquin College on March 12, 2026

Dear Participants and Families,Algonquin College would like to share that beginning in September 2026, Horizons Behaviour Consulting (HBC) will offer new programming, operating from space leased at the Ottawa Campus. Their program will evolve into the Horizons LIFE Program (Living Independence, Functional Skills, and Employment Readiness), continuing to focus on building independence and employment readiness.The College is pleased to have helped facilitate this new service following the earlier announcement that the Academic Assistance for Adults with Developmental Disabilities (AAADD) program would conclude this spring; a difficult decision made in light of the financial challenges faced by the College.HBC has shared that their new program will maintain many of the core elements that participants value, while introducing enhanced individualized supports and expanded learning opportunities, including:

Reducing the staff-to-participant ratio from 1:12 to 1:6 to provide more individualized support.
Developing new social skills such as starting and maintaining conversation, making phone calls and texting, understanding social boundaries and expectations.
Increased emphasis on employment skills, volunteering, and supervised job placements.

If you are interested, please visit the HBC website to learn about program details, cost, and how to register for their unique program.

Sincerely,

Jane Trakalo

Dean, School of Wellness, Public Safety and Community Studies

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When one door closes another door opens.

The Ottawa Family Support Network (OFSN) was established for the purpose of providing education, support and networking opportunities to parents and caregivers of adults with intellectual disabilities.

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