Employment Programs

The MindShift Academy 8-Week Community-Based Job Shadowing Program

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

At The MindShift Academy, we support young adults with learning differences by providing structured exposure to real-life work environments. Our 8-week Job Shadowing Program blends hands-on experience with in-house preparation to build confidence, routine, and a sense of purpose.

This program is ideal for individuals who are ready to explore meaningful roles in their communities while being supported every step of the way.

WHO IS THIS PROGRAM FOR

• This program is designed for young adults with learning differences who are eager to gain real-world work experience and develop practical skills in a supportive, structured environment.

  What You’ll Need to Participate:

  Commitment to learning: You will actively engage in assessments and activities to help identify your strengths, interests, and areas for growth. These will guide your participation and help create a tailored pathway to employment.

  Open to feedback: You’ll work closely with staff to receive guidance, develop new skills, and get constructive feedback to improve.

  Willingness to participate: Whether through hands-on activities, job-related tasks, or community engagement, you will take part in real-life experiences that support your growth.

PROGRAM STRUCTURE

WEEKS 1 & 2, 3:

Onboarding & Preparation (At The MindShift Academy)

Practice routines (e.g., clocking in/out, wearing uniforms, greetings)

Role-play real workplace scenarios

Use visual tools like checklists and social stories.

Learn communication strategies (e.g., how to ask for help)

Reflect daily with The MindShift Academy coaches

Employers receive support on:

Clear, step-by-step communication

Sensory awareness

How to give supportive feedback

WEEKS 4, 5 & 6:

Community Job Shadowing (3–4 Days/Week, 2–4 Hours/Day) 80 - 100 volunteer hours

Observe and assist with real workplace tasks.

Work alongside a mentor or staff buddy

Reflect with a The MindShift Academy coach each day

Sample Tasks Based on Placement Type:

Café/Bakery: Stocking, folding napkins, taking trays out.

Animal Shelter: Feeding animals, walking dogs, cleaning enclosures.

Library: Shelving books, organizing materials

Florist/Garden Centre: Watering plants, sorting tools

Thrift Shop: Tagging donations, restocking shelves.

Office Support: Filing, photocopying, data entry, greeting guests.

WEEK 7 & 8:

Task Practice & Mini-Project, Resume writing and Job search within the required field

Complete small routines with less support

Take ownership of a mini project (e.g., prep a display, assist with event setup all depends on the field they are working in)

End with:

A short reflection presentation

Certificate of Completion

Optional reference letter from business