The Supports for Community Living (SCL) program is committed to empowering individuals with acquired brain injuries to achieve their unique independence goals, recognizing that “independence” looks different for everyone. For some, it may mean gaining skills to feed themselves, while for others, it could be about booking and attending appointments, learning to manage a schedule, or building confidence in navigating community resources with supportive guidance. 

The SCL program is designed to help participants build essential life skills, including: 

• Health and Wellness: Foster physical and mental well-being by building habits that support recovery and daily functioning. 

• Self-Advocacy: Build confidence to communicate personal needs and preferences in various settings. 

• Daily Living Skills: Improve abilities needed for daily life, such as meal preparation, household management, and self-care routines. 

• Stress Management and Coping: Learn strategies to manage stress and adapt to changes resulting from acquired brain injuries. 

• Decision-Making and Problem-Solving: Strengthen the skills needed to make informed choices and handle unexpected situations.

 

Pathways to Independence

Participants receive support through one-on-one or group sessions at ARBI or directly within their community. The program includes flexible pathways to independence, such as: 

• Household Management: Learn to organize and manage household tasks, from meal preparation to maintaining personal spaces. 

• Community Access: Gain confidence and familiarity with local community centers and transit options, helping expand engagement within the community. 

• Technology Skills: Receive assistance with using technology for scheduling, booking rideshares, and connecting with friends and family. 
• Leisure and Recreation Activities: Discover or revisit hobbies and community activities to support social connection and personal enjoyment.

 

Sample Support Plans

Using Rideshare Services: If a client wants to use Uber or other rideshare services independently, ARBI staff assist with account setup, create step-by-step instructions, and accompany the client during trips to practice this skill. This could involve attending an aquasize class, booking a ride back, and ensuring the client returns home safely. 

Meal Preparation: For clients aiming to prepare simple meals, ARBI staff assess the kitchen setup and help remove or adapt any barriers. This may include adding visual labels, organizing supplies, and creating easy-to-follow guides or recommending step-by-step apps that provide visual and verbal instructions. 

Meal Planning and Grocery Shopping: For clients interested in planning meals and shopping independently, ARBI staff support with recipe selection, grocery list preparation, and store navigation, assisting with selection, checkout, and meal preparation at home

 

How to Apply

1. 1. Complete the SCL Application
   2. Submit the application/forms via email: Intake@arbi.ca
   3. ARBI’s intake team will review the application and may request relevant medical documentation (e.g., hospital discharge notes).
   4. An intake assessment with a Recreation Therapist will be scheduled.
   5. If deemed appropriate, you will be matched with a Community Recreation Assistant.

Eligibility Criteria for SCL

• Adult (18+) Albertan with an acquired brain injury 

• Not receiving funding from the Persons with Developmental Disabilities (PDD) Program 

• Canadian citizen or permanent resident 

• Facing barriers to community access 

• Can provide voluntary, informed consent 

• Not receiving overnight paid support, and not in hospital or acute care 

• Goals are attainable within 2 years

 

Each client can receive support through SCL for up to two years, allowing time for meaningful progress and sustainable skill development in their independence goals. If you’re curious about whether SCL can support your specific goals, please reach out to us at Intake@arbi.ca—we’re here to help you explore how the SCL program can meet your needs. 

The Community Access for People in Continuing Care (CAPCC) program is designed to enhance community involvement and reduce social isolation for individuals under 65 living in continuing care facilities. Through the CAPCC program, participants engage in meaningful outings and activities that foster social connection, allow for personal expression, and build confidence in a community setting. Supported by ARBI’s dedicated team, this program is free of charge and provides services for 8 months, followed by a 4-month break to allow new clients to join.

 

Connecting Through Community

Community Engagement: CAPCC outings are designed to reconnect individuals with activities they enjoy and to discover new ones. Past outings have included visits to the Calgary Zoo, scenic picnics at Glenmore Reservoir, and outings for haircuts or nail appointments. These experiences help participants rediscover joy in community participation and provide opportunities to experience Calgary’s cultural and recreational offerings. 

Personalized Outings and Social Activities: CAPCC supports a variety of outings based on each individual’s interests, which may include: 

• Leisure Outings: Explore favourite local spots like parks, zoos, or museums. 

• Self-Care and Personal Appointments: Visit a salon for a haircut, enjoy a manicure or shop for personal items. 

• Social Gatherings: Connect with family, friends, or community members in public settings or organized social events. 

• Volunteer or Community Events: Engage in activities with community groups or attend classes, allowing for skill development and new experiences. 

Comprehensive Support: A Community Recreation Assistant works closely with each participant to coordinate outings and provide personalized support, whether it’s arranging transportation, ensuring accessibility, or offering social encouragement throughout the experience.

 

How to Apply

1. Complete the CAPCC Application
2. Submit the application/forms via email: Intake@arbi.ca
3. ARBI’s intake team will review the application and may request relevant medical documentation (e.g., hospital discharge notes).
4. An intake assessment with a Recreation Therapist will be scheduled.
5. If deemed appropriate, you will be matched with a Community Recreation Assistant.

Eligibility Criteria

• Adult Albertan (18-64) with an acquired brain injury 

• Resides in a facility-based continuing care setting 

• Canadian citizen or permanent resident 

• Eligible for the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) 

• Able to communicate (verbally or non-verbally) preferences and actively participate in establishing and working toward goals

 

Through CAPCC, ARBI’s team is dedicated to helping clients find meaningful ways to connect, engage, and enjoy their community. For more information or to see if this program might be right for you, please contact us at Intake@arbi.ca.