Helping young adults grow through learning, job experience, and daily life skills.
The Life Academy is a highly structured, two-year post-secondary program designed to provide a college experience for adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities. Over the course of 32 carefully designed courses, students develop essential skills in independence, employment, and community engagement.
After surveying guardians of our Life Academy participants, 90% of respondents said they would recommend Journey21 to others, with a 4.86 out of 5 average overall rating of the academy and a 4.95 out of 5 average rating of Journey21 staff.
What Our Program Offers
The program focuses on preparing students to lead fulfilling, productive lives by enhancing their personal, academic, and professional growth. Through hands-on learning, real-world experiences, and individualized support, Life Academy students gain the tools they need to become confident, contributing members of their communities.
The program includes:
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Social Skills & Relationship Building
- Self-awareness and developing self-confidence
- Develop communication, collaboration, and interpersonal skills
- Independent Daily Living Skills
- Learning technology basics
- Training in daily routines and independent living skills
- Employment/Vocational Skills Development
- Preparing for meaningful work opportunities
- Career exploration and supported employment
- Health, Wellness & Safety
- Maintaining physical and emotional well-being
- Gaining healthy lifestyle habits including growth mindset
- Personal Finances
- Managing money, budgeting, planning for the future
- Understanding the value of money
Student Internship Placements
Students participate in four separate 14-week internship placements, offering the opportunity to explore a variety of career paths. Internships are carefully matched to each student’s aptitudes, interests, and strengths, ensuring a meaningful and personalized experience.
Placements provide real-world work experience, helping students develop essential employability skills such as responsibility, teamwork, and professional communication. Students are supported throughout their internships by dedicated job coaches, guiding them as they build confidence and prepare for future employment opportunities.
Expected Outcomes
- Build confidence and belonging
- Student obtains competitive or supported employment, or is job-ready upon program completion
- The need to rely less on formal supports and more on their own abilities and community networks
- Demonstrates increased independence in daily living and advocates for needed supports
- Navigates the community safely and accesses community resources
