The Community Access Naperville (CAN) Vocational and Recreational Program for Adults with Developmental Disabilities empowers people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to contribute to and enjoy their community. It is currently offered on weekdays, 50 weeks per year, as well as two Saturdays per month. Each session is guided by a Program Leader and a Program Assistant, who are experienced in special education, social service, and/or vocational rehabilitation. In a typical session, the day begins with vocational tasks, and then the group accesses the community for a recreational outing. Participants learn vocational and social skills while they volunteer for local non-profit organizations. The second half of the day provides recreational opportunities for exercise and enrichment. An important aspect of our program that differentiates us from others is our commitment to peer mentor involvement. Student volunteers and interns from local colleges assist with vocational tasks, participate in community outings, provide guidance and encouragement, and build relationships with the participants.
