Adolescence & Adulthood

Rights & Self-Advocacy

• Rights (Abilities Manitoba) - Video-based eLearning covering the foundations of rights, dignity of risk, rights restrictions, and how to support people in being in charge of their own stories. Captioned and available with ASL.
• Decision-Making & Choice (Abilities Manitoba) - Resources and activities to help build decision-making skills and support people in exercising real choice and control in their daily lives.

Employment

People with Down syndrome have the right to meaningful employment in their communities - working alongside people of all abilities and earning fair compensation. With the right supports and opportunities, individuals with Down syndrome can pursue rewarding careers and make valuable contributions in the workplace.

• Employment Toolkit (Abilities Manitoba) - A comprehensive guide for service providers and teams on supporting people with intellectual disabilities toward meaningful, inclusive employment. Covers everything from what real employment looks like to rights, transportation, and workplace accommodations.
• Manitoba Possible - Employment Preparation Centre (EPC) Manitoba Possible's Employment Preparation Centre supports individuals with disabilities in finding and maintaining meaningful employment in Manitoba. Their team provides job coaching, skills training, and employer connections.
• NDSS Adolescence Resource Hub (NDSS) - A broad collection of resources on education, health, caregiving, and more for this life stage.
• CDSS Employment Planning Hub The Canadian Down Syndrome Society's Employment Planning Hub is a comprehensive resource designed for self-advocates, families, and employment service providers. It covers everything from self-discovery and career exploration to resume development, job searching, and succeeding in a new role.
• CDSS Employment Planning Workbook Whether your loved one is a teenager thinking about a part-time job or an adult looking to change career paths, this easy-read workbook helps individuals with Down syndrome and their families start conversations about work and begin preparing for the workforce.
• Inployable Inployable is the world's first Down syndrome employment network on LinkedIn - a free platform where job seekers with Down syndrome can connect with employers who are committed to inclusive hiring.

Additional Employment Resources

• Ready Willing & Able - A national program increasing labour force participation for people with intellectual disabilities
• Canadian Association for Supported Employment (CASE) - National resources on supported and inclusive employment

Government of Canada: Hiring Persons with Disabilities - Resources for employers on building inclusive workplaces

Housing

When the time comes for an adult with Down syndrome to explore living arrangements, there are many options available. The most important thing is to involve your loved one in every decision about where and how they live, and to choose an arrangement that reflects their individual needs, abilities, and preferences.

Types of Living Arrangements

Independent Living - Some individuals with Down syndrome are capable of living independently, either on their own or with some informal support from friends and family.

Supportive Roommate - A popular option where the individual lives with a paid or informal supportive roommate who assists with daily tasks and planning while respecting the individual's independence.

Group Homes - A shared living arrangement with other individuals with disabilities, supported by qualified care staff. A good fit for those who enjoy social living and need regular daily support.

Family Home - Many families choose to have their loved one continue living at home in a familiar, supportive environment. It is important for families to plan ahead and consider long-term care needs as circumstances change.

Long-Term Care - For individuals in their later years who require higher levels of daily support or medical care.

Tips for Transitioning Between Living Arrangements

Moving can be stressful. Help prepare your loved one by giving advance notice using a calendar, talking about the change frequently, and visiting the new space multiple times before the move.

Housing Resources

• CDSS Housing Resources - Overview of housing options and stories from adults with Down syndrome living independently across Canada
• Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) - Information on affordable and accessible housing options across Canada
• ConnectABILITY: Steps to Independence - A practical guide to independent living for individuals with disabilities
• Living Independently Easy Read - Down Syndrome Australia - An accessible easy-read guide to independent living