Our Resource Hub
Connecting you with the support and services you need through social prescribing
What is Social Prescribing?
Social prescribing connects people to non-medical support in the community to improve their health and wellbeing. It's a holistic approach that recognizes that health is influenced by a range of social, economic, and environmental factors.
Through social prescribing, youth with special needs and their caregivers can be connected to various community resources such as:
Social Connection
Peer support groups, community events, and social clubs
Skill Development
Workshops, classes, and training opportunities
Creative Activities
Arts, music, and other creative outlets
Resource Database
Filter Resources
| Organization Name | Form of Social Prescribing | Description | Region of Ottawa | Location / Frequency | Accessibility | Price Point |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ottawa Youth Services | Social Connection | Weekly peer support groups for youth with special needs | Downtown Ottawa | Every Tuesday, 4-6pm | Wheelchair accessible | Free |
| Creative Minds Studio | Creative & Recreational Activities | Art therapy sessions for youth with anxiety and depression | Westboro | Mondays and Wednesdays, 5-7pm | Wheelchair accessible Virtual Option | Low |
| Tech Buddies | Skill Development | Computer coding classes for youth with autism | Kanata | Saturdays, 10am-12pm | Virtual Option | High |
| Outdoor Adventures | Outdoor & Nature-Based | Accessible hiking and nature exploration for youth with mobility challenges | Nepean | Monthly outings, weekends | Wheelchair accessible | Low |
| Study Buddies | Academic Support | Tutoring services for youth with learning disabilities | Centretown | Weekdays after school, 3-6pm | Virtual Option | Free |
| Sensory Space | Specific Needs Support | Sensory-friendly play space for youth with sensory processing disorders | Orleans | Open daily, 9am-7pm | Wheelchair accessible | Low |
| Youth Voices | Issue-Based Services | Advocacy training for youth with disabilities | Downtown Ottawa | Bi-weekly workshops, Thursdays 5-7pm | Wheelchair accessible Virtual Option | Free |
| Community Helpers | Volunteering | Inclusive volunteer opportunities for youth with special needs | Barrhaven | Flexible schedule, year-round | Wheelchair accessible | Free |
Resources For Everyone
For Caregivers
Support resources, self-care tools, and community connections for parents and caregivers.
- Respite care options
- Support groups
- Educational workshops
For Youth
Programs, activities, and support services designed specifically for youth with special needs.
- Recreational activities
- Peer connection programs
- Skill-building opportunities
For Community
Information and resources for community members who want to create more inclusive spaces.
- Accessibility guidelines
- Inclusion training
- Volunteer opportunities
Downloadable Resources
Resource Navigation Guide
A comprehensive guide to help you navigate available resources for youth with special needs in Ottawa.
Download PDFCaregiver Self-Care Toolkit
Practical strategies and resources to support the wellbeing of caregivers of youth with special needs.
Download PDFAccessibility Checklist
A checklist for community organizations to assess and improve the accessibility of their programs and spaces.
Download PDFTransition Planning Workbook
A workbook to help youth with special needs and their caregivers plan for transitions between schools, programs, or into adulthood.
Download PDFNeed Help Finding Resources?
Our Resource Coordinator can help you navigate available services and find the right support for your specific needs.