Our Impact
Our vision for the future is simple: to see individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities actively engaged and represented in all facets of community life as both employees and customers, fully integrated and participating. With the right support, everyone can find their place in the world of work, contributing to a more inclusive and diverse society.
This is how we're getting there.
Into your hearts and hands
Over the past two years, our organization has witnessed remarkable growth and impact, driven by the dedication of our participants with intellectual and developmental disabilities and the unwavering support of our community.
In 2022, our participants handcrafted and served over 3,100 beverages to our community. Each of these interactions was an opportunity to challenge perceptions and showcase the immense talent within the disability community.
In 2023, our impact soared even higher. A remarkable 9,000 meticulously crafted beverages found their way into the hands and hearts of those who recognize and celebrate the ability.
As we conclude 2024, we are closing out the year with significant accomplishments. Thanks to our wonderful community, we've already created 10,000 opportunities to learn, grow, and connect through delicious handmade beverages crafted by our participants. Your continued support not only provides real work opportunities but also helps change perceptions.
Together, we're making a difference—one handcrafted beverage at a time.
A platform for growth
Our mission is to forge pathways for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to integrate into the workforce or start a business, and that journey starts at Melly’s with our expansive programming that includes 16 modules focused on workplace and work skills and 16 pillars focused on personal development.
So far, 43 adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities have participated in our programming and developed their confidence and skills in a safe, welcoming environment that is dedicatedto their growth.
Additionally, 15 teens participated in our transformative 9-week Summer Development program, opening doors to new confidence and dreams.
$15K Back to Disability-Driven Businesses
Beyond our direct initiatives, we have dedicated ourselves to showcasing and supporting businesses that are disability-owned or that hire individuals with disabilities. Our market features eight such enterprises, and by purchasing directly from them, we've funneled over $15,000 back into their hands. This support not only bolsters their ventures but also amplifies the message of the incredible talent within the disability community.
Melly's Bridge
The power of collaboration cannot be understated.
Six remarkable business inclusion partnerships—Crossfit Oshawa, Pingles, LCBO, Aspire Climbing Whitby, Unique Town Boutique, and Eat my Shortbread—stand as symbols of progress and unity.
Each business hired and mentored graduates from our program. Together, we're forging a path towards an inclusive society where everyone's contributions are recognized and valued.
Employment
Perhaps one of the most impactful results is the Fifteen unique employment opportunities outside of our own establishment.
Our graduates have stepped confidently into the workforce, carrying with them the skills, experiences, and determination cultivated through our program.
But that's not all, during the week, our Interactive Development Program is in full swing behind the scenes. Participants work with a coach, tackling hundreds of activities across 16 workplace development modules (how to get the job) and 16 personal development modules (how to keep the job). But on Saturdays, we flip the script!
No coaches, no guided lessons—just work. Every Saturday, participants apply for jobs, go through interviews, bring in their paperwork, follow job descriptions, track their hours, and complete a performance review with their supervisor. It’s their chance to shine, apply what they’ve learned, and build independence.
To everyone visiting us on Saturdays—thank you! Your support means the world as our participants step into these roles and prove they’ve got what it takes. Plus, they earn some well-deserved pay along the way!
Melly's Workday is new, but we've already scheduled over 150 shifts for our participants! Melly's participants LOVE to work.
Raising the Bar
Engaging with the community has been the cornerstone of our commitment to our vision. We have organized and participated in 20+ events that bring people of all abilities together for various activities and collaborations.
By fostering inclusivity and breaking down barriers, these gatherings have not only created joy and camaraderie but have also played a significant role in building our incredibly supportive community.
You may have joined us at one of our "Raise the Bar" events, focused on skill-building and initiating conversations about work and contributions from kids and teens with disabilities. Perhaps you've attended a school tour or a presentation at our facility. We've also been active across the Durham Region and Toronto, visiting different businesses, events, and celebrations with our team to advocate for inclusion in the workplace.
Through these efforts, we continue to foster a community where everyone is valued, abilities are celebrated, and real inclusion is possible.
Our impact goes beyond numbers; it's a story of empowerment, growth, and the unwavering spirit of our participants. As we continue on this path, we're excited about the future we're shaping—one where opportunities for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities are limitless.