Enrollment is OPEN! Secure Your Spot in Our New Skills Development Program Today
Following the incredible success of our inaugural 2025 launch, the Down Syndrome Foundation, in partnership with Ontario's Ministry of Labour, is thrilled to announce that applications are officially open for our expanded Skills Development training program!
Whether you are an eager applicant looking to build a career or a community supporter passionate about workplace inclusion, the wait is over: Enrollment officially opened on August 4th, 2026, and you can apply right now!
Our "Building Our Future" initiative was designed to tackle two vital challenges in Ontario: addressing the high demand for skilled labour in the low-rise construction sector and breaking down barriers to meaningful employment for adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD).
Through this program, trainees prepare for the specialized role of "Supported Co-Worker." Working side-by-side with skilled tradespeople, Supported Co-Workers handle essential, time-consuming tasks on job sites. This dynamic model allows tradespeople to focus on their specialized crafts, boosting site productivity while giving individuals with IDD fulfilling, empowering roles in the workforce.
Our comprehensive curriculum combines interactive classroom instruction with hands-on, real-world job-site experience. Trainees develop crucial employability skills and job-specific competencies under the guidance of dedicated trainers, ensuring every graduate enters the workforce confident, capable, and job-ready.
Eligibility: Applicants must be 21 years of age or older and eager to embark on a rewarding career path in the skilled trades.
Tracks & Schedules: We offer tailored training streams to match different interests and flexible cohort schedules. Visit skillsdevelopment.ca to explore all details on available training tracks and cohort dates.
Limited Spaces: Places in each cohort are limited to ensure personalized instruction and maximum hands-on support, so early application is strongly encouraged.
Don't wait to shape your future or support someone on their journey. Enrollment is open as of August 4th, 2026, and applications are actively being reviewed.
Head directly to skillsdevelopment.ca to complete your application today, or download the Down Syndrome Canada App on Google Play or the Apple App Store to apply directly from your phone.
Together, we’re strengthening Ontario's workforce and building a more inclusive future—one job site at a time!
By becoming part of our passion and dedication to the Down syndrome community. We invite you to join in making a significant difference that brings about positive change to individuals, impacts the lives of those we advocate for but also forge lifelong friendships in building a more compassionate world. Together we can create a brighter future!
Celebrate positive abilities and support a fulfilling inclusive life for individuals with Down syndrome across Canada.
