Life skills and community inclusion day program
Empowering independence, building confidence
our mission
At Café EXTRA Ordinaire, we believe that every individual deserves the opportunity to pursue their dreams and reach their full potential.
Our Life Skills Centre programs are designed specifically for independent individuals (18+) with Neurodevelopmental Disorders, to provide the practical tools and support needed to thrive in their everyday lives.
At Café EXTRA Ordinaire, we aim to empower these individuals by equipping them with essential life skills.
Through personalized coaching, hands-on experiences, and a supportive environment, we help individuals build the confidence and abilities to navigate the world on their own terms.
If you are or know an individual with a Neurodevelopmental Disorder who would benefit from our program please register below to receive more information and a fee schedule.
what are life skills?
Life skills encompass a wide range of abilities that help individuals function independently in their day-to-day lives. For individuals with learning disabilities, these skills can open doors to greater independence, self-sufficiency, and overall well-being. Our programs focus on:
Communication Skills
Expressing thoughts, emotions and needs clearly
Social Skills
Building relationships, understanding social cues and engaging in conversations
Financial Literacy
Managing money, budgeting and understanding basic banking
Personal Care
Grooming, hygiene and maintaining personal health
Household Management
Cooking, Cleaning and organizing Spaces
Time Management
Planning daily schedules and managing responsibilities
Job Readiness
Resume writing, interview techniques, appropriate workplace behaviours and training for real-world experiences
At Café EXTRA Ordinaire, we are committed to building a more inclusive society and empowering individuals to lead meaningful lives.
Christina Farrell and Rita Aprile, Co-Founders
our programs
Independent Living Skills
Our Independent Living Skills program helps participants manage daily tasks such as cooking, cleaning, and personal hygiene. Participants learn practical skills through interactive workshops and real-life scenarios, preparing them for independent living.
Social and COMMUNICATION Skills
This program focuses on building healthy relationships, navigating social settings, and understanding how to communicate effectively. Whether it’s making friends, maintaining family
relationships, or engaging in community activities, we provide the guidance and practice needed for success.
Financial Literacy
Managing money is a crucial skill for independence. Our financial literacy program teaches budgeting, saving, and basic banking. We also cover essential topics like understanding bills, credit, and making informed financial decisions.
Employment and Career Skills
We help participants with preparing for the workplace by offering job search support, resume building, interview practice, and on-the-job behaviours training. Our mission is to give our participants the confidence and tools to pursue meaningful employment.
Our Commitment to Inclusion
Inclusive Environment
At Café EXTRA Ordinaire, we are dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment where everyone is valued and respected. We believe that diversity is our strength, and we celebrate the unique talents and perspectives each individual brings to our team. Our commitment to inclusion extends to every aspect of our cafe, from our hiring practices to our customer service. We strive to create a welcoming and supportive atmosphere that encourages personal and professional growth for all members of our community.
If you wish to volunteer your services to help these individuals, we require the following:
Must be a minimum of 16 years of age (16-18 require permission from a parent/guardian)
A minimum of 4-hour availability/day between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m.
A minimum commitment of 2 months
Complete a Police Vulnerable Sector Check (PVSC)
Complete a Volunteer Application Form for either the Café or Life Skills Centre
If this is something that interests you, please follow the link below!
why choose us?
Customized Learning Plans: Every individual is unique, and so are their needs. We tailor our programs to meet the specific strengths and challenges of each participant.
Supportive Environment: Our team of experienced educators and mentors provides a nurturing, non-judgmental space where these participants can learn, grow, and feel empowered.
Real-World Application: We believe in hands-on learning, which is why our programs are focused on practical, real-world applications. We don’t just teach skills; we help participants practice them in everyday settings.
Are you an independent individual (18+) with a Neurodevelopmental Disorder and ready to take the next step toward independence?
Or are you the parent/caregiver looking for supportive resources?
Connect with us today to learn more about our programs and fee schedule.