Melly's Interactive Development Program
A Launchpad to Contribution and Independence
Melly’s Interactive Development Program is designed for adults 21+ with an intellectual or developmental disability who want to work in their community.
Some are looking for their first job. Others have worked before and want stronger skills, more support, or a better workplace fit to succeed long-term.
Over six months at Melly’s, apprentices build the personal and workplace skills that help people get a job and keep a job.
A three-stage approach, focused on building the skills, tools and habits that lead to long-term success in the workplace.
At Melly’s, the café, market and kitchen become the classroom.
Coaches work together with apprentices in hands-on activities that are person-centred and interactive.
We approach learning with movement, expression and real-world application, building both confidence and ability.
12 weeks
Caterpillar
Before someone can get a job, they need to understand workplace expectations and the soft skills required to succeed.
It is this knowledge that helps them keep the job.
8 Weeks
Cocoon
Once an apprentice has built the skills needed to keep a job, we shift the focus to doing the job, building the transferable workplace skills that strengthen their resume and inspire employer confidence.
8 Weeks
Butterfly
When apprentices are ready to keep and do a job in the community, we focus on building job-seeking skills with application and interview support, while they actively search for work with a coach.
Paid Work Opportunities
Apprentices also have the chance to apply for, interview, and work paid shifts in our café and market. Designed to simulate competitive employment, each role carries unique responsibilities and is performed independently—without a coach—followed by a performance review at the end of each shift.
These real-world experiences help develop confidence in job searching, onboarding, working autonomously, taking initiative, and reaching personal career goals.
Supportive Coaching
Our experienced coaches, each with extensive leadership backgrounds in customer-facing roles, facilitate every activity.
They bring firsthand insight into the skills needed for competitive employment, working closely with apprentices to enhance accuracy, efficiency, and fluency in common job tasks that exist in most hospitality and retail environments.
Work Integrated Learning
To create an immersive learning experience, we deliver lessons within a real cafe and market that mirror apprentices' future workplaces.
This work-integrated approach builds confidence, develops skills, and ensures a confident transfer of skills and abilities into their next workplace.
Turn learning into real workplace skills
400+ practical activities for all learning styles, all mapped to job-ready skill development. Created by Melly’s with employer and disability community feedback.
Over 200 hours of coaching and hands-on training in a working market and café.
From customer service to stocking and routines, every hour is designed to build workplace readiness and independence.
Paid Work Days that build your résumé.
Our Paid Work Days let you practice your skills on the job, building confidence and a stronger résumé.
Three sessions per week, designed to build workplace readiness.
- Weekly schedule shared through our app (updated every week)
- Rotating shift times: opening, mid-day, and closing
- Builds reliability, routine, and confidence across different business hours
Ongoing growth check-ins so progress stays on track.
Throughout the six-month program, we hold growth check-ins with parents, caregivers, and support workers to:
- confirm strengths and accommodations
- set and refine goals
- identify areas for growth and next steps
A person-centred approach
Coaches capture real-time focus notes and track progress on every activity, moving from accuracy to efficiency, then fluency. These notes shape the following week’s schedule and help us build individualized learning priorities for each apprentice.
I want to be a part of everything. Just like everyone else. A part of life. - Melly
FAQ
How long is the program?
Our Interactive Development Program is 6-months in length. Each apprentice attends 3 times per week, for 3 different sessions.
When are the sessions?
Each apprentice receives a new schedule each week with 3 different sessions. Each session has a different start time : 7am, 10am, 1pm. Apprentices must be available for all start times in order to access the entire curriculum.
How much does it cost?
The 6-month program is currently funded and delivered at no-cost to the apprentice.
Who can join this program?
Our Interactive Development Program is open to individuals with an intellectual and/or developmental disability. They must be 21+.
This program is best suited for candidates who are exploring employment opportunities and can (or are ready to) manage their own transportation by walking or using public transit. While personalized coaching is available, candidates should also feel confident working independently without needing direct supervision at all times.
Apply Now
Use the form below to apply for our Interactive Workplace Development Program. The application process starts with a tour and interview with the potential apprentice. A parent/guardian/caretaker can attend this tour.
This program is best suited for candidates who are exploring employment opportunities and can (or are ready to) manage their own transportation by walking or using public transit. While personalized coaching is available, candidates should also feel confident working independently without needing direct supervision at all times.
