NextGen Program
Championing an inclusive city and creating recreation skill development for young people with disabilities.
What is NextGen?
As part of Vaughan’s commitment to inclusion, the City introduced the NextGen work-placement program this year for youth and young adults (ages 16 to 24 years old) who are living with disabilities. They are offered customized training tools and resources to prepare them for employment in the recreation sector.
Vaughan’s Recreation Services department was awarded funding from the Ontario Government’s EnAbling Change Program, which is administered by the Ministry for Seniors and Accessibility, to develop and implement this program at the City.
Why it matters
NextGen program bridges the gap between high school and employment, while offering specialized tools and resources tailored to the individuals’ needs to help them succeed.
The program provided participants with the opportunity to:
- develop valuable employment skills while building the confidence to make meaningful contributions to the community.
- build job skills in a supportive and inclusive environment.
- enhance employment prospects in the recreation sector.
- gain practical skills through hands-on training.
- unlock the opportunity for an eight-week placement at a Vaughan community centre upon program completion.
Out of 30 applicants, 13 were selected to participate in the program this year, which included 34 in-person interactive workshops and guest speakers over 17 weeks.
Contact Us
Recreation Services department - Inclusion and Support Services
Vaughan City Hall, Level 300
2141 Major Mackenzie Dr.
Vaughan, ON L6A 1T1
Phone: 905-832-2281, ext. 7408
Email: inclusion@vaughan.ca
Frequently Asked Questions
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Answer
To qualify, participants must:
- be between 16 and 24 years old
- be a graduate or current student of a York Region Disctrict School Board or York Catholic District School Board school.
- be referred by a teacher or caseworker (if connected with a community service organization).
- commit to attending the full program and placement duration.
- be independent and have access to a computer and internet.
- have basic literacy, computer and communication skills, with the ability to follow directions and complete tasks independently.
- have the ability to independently self-administer medication and manage personal hygiene as required.
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Answer
Applications for the NextGen program are now closed. Please join our waitlist to be informed about future opportunities.