Day & Community Programs
Canaan Cares offers Day and Community Programs that help individuals build independence, learn new skills, make friends, and participate meaningfully in everyday life. Our programs focus on personal development, social connections, work readiness, and community engagement—always guided by the individual’s goals and the Individual Program Plan (IPP).
These programs help adults discover their strengths, explore new activities, and develop the confidence needed to build a fulfilling life.
Day Programs
Our Day Programs are designed to provide structured, supportive, and engaging opportunities throughout the day. These programs are built around personal interests, individualized needs, and the desire to increase independence.
Day Program Activities May Include:
Skill-Building Workshops
- Financial literacy
- Cooking and meal prep
- Safety skills
- Community navigation
- Communication and self-advocacy
Creative & Recreational Activities
- Art and music
- Exercise and wellness
- Gardening
- Special interest groups
Community Outings
- Museums, parks, beaches, libraries
- Local events and activities
- Shopping and errands
Social Skill Development
- Group discussions
- Relationship building
- Conflict resolution
- Social etiquette
Day programs offer a combination of learning, exploration, and social interaction that enhance everyday life skills.
Tailored Day Services - Education
Many individuals thrive when they can participate in real-world community activities. Canaan Cares provides community-based supports that help participants build comfort, confidence, and independence outside the home.
Supports May Include:
- Social outings and recreational activities
- Fitness, movement, and exercise programs
- Community classes (art, cooking, music, martial arts, etc.)
- Peer interaction and social groups
- Nature walks and outdoor adventures
- Visiting community centers and local organizations
- Life-skills practice in natural environments
These experiences help individuals learn how to navigate the community safely, interact with others, and build meaningful connections.
Canaan Cares proudly serves California Regional Centers throughout San Diego, Poway, Oceanside, Escondido, Carlsbad, El Cajon, Vista, Solana Beach, Encinitas, La Mesa, and Los Angeles, Orange, San Diego, and Riverside Counties.
Supported Employment: Basics & Beyond
Preparing Adults for Meaningful Work
Employment helps adults gain purpose, pride, structure, and community connection. Supported employment services provide the tools needed to explore career interests, prepare for work, and maintain employment long-term.
Supported Employment Includes:
Career Discovery & Assessment
- Identifying strengths, interests, and workplace preferences
- Exploring job settings (retail, food service, office work, custodial, etc.)
Job Readiness Training
- Resume building
- Interview preparation
- Workplace etiquette
- Time management
Job Coaching & On-the-Job Support
- Learning job duties step-by-step
- Building relationships with coworkers
- Communication strategies
- Problem-solving at work
Long-Term Support
- Support adjusting to job changes
- Advocacy for accommodations
- Checking in to ensure ongoing success
Employment is possible for nearly every adult with the right support structure.
Examples of Goals for Adults in Community Day & Tailored Day Programs
Examples of goals commonly supported through our programs include:
Skill-Building & Independence
- Learn to plan and prepare simple meals
- Develop money-handling or budgeting skills
- Increase personal safety awareness
- Improve time management
Social Skills & Communication
- Build confidence meeting new people
- Improve conversation and social etiquette
- Participate in group activities
Community Engagement
- Attend weekly community activities
- Learn to access local resources
- Practice using public transportation
Employment-Related Goals
- Create a resume
- Learn workplace expectations
- Practice job interview skills
- Explore volunteer or job opportunities
Every goal is individualized and built around the person’s preferences and strengths.
Volunteer Opportunities
Volunteering is an excellent way to:
- Build job skills
- Gain experience for future employment
- Meet new people
- Explore interests
- Contribute to the community
- Develop routines and structure
Examples of volunteer placements may include:
- Animal shelters
- Libraries
- Food distribution centers
- Thrift stores
- Community gardens
- Senior centers
- Local nonprofits
Canaan Cares supports individuals in finding volunteer roles that match their strengths and interests.
Tailored Day Services – Employment Preparation and Skill Building
For individuals who want to explore employment, our programs offer step-by-step support designed to build workplace confidence and job-related skills.
Job Readiness Activities May Include:
Employment Exploration
- Identifying personal strengths
- Understanding job types and settings
- Learning about workplace expectations
Employment Skills
- Resume writing
- Practicing interviews
- Workplace etiquette
- Time management
- Following instructions
Workplace Skills Training
- Task-specific practice
- Organization and productivity
- Communication strategies
- Problem-solving skills
Transition Support
- Coordinating with Supported Employment programs
- Preparing for job coaching
- Understanding transportation options
Our goal is to help individuals move through a natural employment pathway—from exploration to readiness to meaningful work opportunities.
There are many specialty services offered by Canaan Cares. Click here to see all of them.