ABOUT US: Torchlight Services is a not-for-profit, charitable day program for adults with disabilities in Guelph. They offer person-centered programs focusing on holistic well-being and individual uniqueness. Activities include educational, social, recreational, and leisure programs. Participants are central to program development, guided by the principles of "my choice/my voice" and "nothing about me/without me." The organization of 50 years is partially funded by the ministry of children’s community and social services, and has three interconnected programs; The Reach Day Program, Ignite Social Enterprise and The Candlelight Social. Torchlight also supports community businesses and mentor’s students.
HISTORY: 50 years ago, Torchlight Services (then Torchlight Industries) was established to address the unique obstacles faced by adults with disabilities in finding and maintaining employment. Through different work contracts and partnerships with the community, Torchlight offered vocational opportunities focusing on the abilities of the person. In 2018, Torchlight transitioned from a Sheltered Workshop to an Adult Day Program with many participants making the move as well. In 2022, Torchlight then moved from its original location on Edinburgh and Crimea to downtown on Carden street. Today, Torchlight Services remains as an organization providing enriching community-based programs for adults with developmental disabilities on a limited budget. Moreover, Torchlight emphasizes fostering community inclusion and ensures that our participants actively participate in Guelph's local businesses and attractions.
PROGRAMS
Reach Day Program
The Torchlight’s Reach Day Program was created with the aim of empowering participants to grow and reach their full potential as valued members of the community. Through the Reach Program, participants benefit in various ways, focusing on the following pillars:
The program offers engaging activities that align with these pillars, including:
Physical Health: Heartbeats club, Yoga, Noodle Drumming, Hiking, Swimming, Baseball, Skating
Educational: Museum visits, Alpaca Farm tours, Community Safety, Butterfly Conservatory, Cooking classes
Recreational: Kitty Café visits, Boat tours, River Run Shows, Play with Clay, Bowling, Sleigh rides
Leisure: Dining out, games (air hockey, bingo, cards), Crafts, and celebrating special holidays
Ignite Social Enterprise:
The Ignite Social Enterprise program fosters financial independence, responsibility, and teamwork through crafting custom items for profit. Participants gain confidence, experience, and transferable skills while engaging in woodworking projects, greeting card creation, and more. The program promotes productivity, creativity, and inclusivity, providing unconventional work opportunities for all abilities.
The Candlelight Social:
This new program offers evening socializing opportunities with activities like arts and crafts, improv sessions, and movie nights. It includes dinner and refreshments, allowing participants to socialize and make new connections.
