This mentorship and awareness raising program helps individuals with intellectual disabilities take part in physical and recreational activities at the Hochelaga-Maisonneuve Y centre.

Going to a sports complex may seem like an impossible challenge for someone with intellectual disabilities. The difficulties they face only add to their isolation, obesity, and various mental and physical health problems. To remedy this situation, since 2005 the Hochelaga-Maisonneuve Y centre has been offering an integrated recreation program for the intellectually disabled.

To start with, the participant is accompanied by a volunteer mentor who helps them get to know the centre. The mentor explains the general rules of conduct and the basic notions involved in practicing their activity of choice. With time, the participant feels confident enough to carry on with the activity alone, either at the centre or in another recreational facility.

The results so far are encouraging. After a mentorship period of two to three months, participants in the program have achieved a significant amount of independence. For example, most of them keep coming to workout, can adjust the weight equipment themselves, and are able to get help from staff. Some of them have lost weight since they started going to the centre and say that staying in shape has become important for them. As well, it allows their families to have a welcome break.

For more information, please contact Julie Émond-Pelletier at the Hochelaga-Maisonneuve Y centre,
514 255-4651 ext. 2245.