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Youth Exploring Possibilities (YEP)

Youth Exploring Possibilities (YEP) offers community-based services for youth with developmental disabilities in Waterloo Region.

Whether you’re looking to make new friends, build life skills, explore your community, or prepare for greater independence, YEP provides fun, engaging experiences that help youth grow with confidence.

YEP Social

YEP Social brings young people together to have fun, build friendships, and stay connected throughout the year.

Activities run on weekday evenings, PD Days, March Break, and other school closures.

Activities are planned based on participants’ interests and may include:

  • Baking and cooking
  • Community outings
  • Using Grand River Transit (GRT)
  • Games and recreation
  • Seasonal activities
  • Exploring new places around Waterloo Region

YEP Social is open to youth ages 13 to 25.

YEP Skills

YEP Skills offers six-week courses that help youth prepare for greater independence and future success.

Through hands-on activities and guided learning, participants build practical life skills in a supportive environment.

Courses may focus on topics such as:

  • Independent living skills
  • Cooking and meal preparation
  • Budgeting and money management
  • Travel training
  • Communication and social skills
  • Workplace readiness
  • Problem-solving and decision-making

Each course is designed to help youth build confidence while developing skills they can use in everyday life.

YEP Skills is open to youth ages 13 to 25.

YEP Summer

YEP Summer is a nine-week summer session that runs throughout July and August.

Youth can register for as many weeks as they like, with activities and themes changing each week.

Participants enjoy:

  • Community recreation
  • Work readiness activities
  • Fitness and active living
  • Volunteer experiences
  • Community exploration using GRT
  • Group activities planned with youth input

YEP Summer is open to youth ages 13 to 21.

YEP Summer is offered based on annual funding.

Subscribe to the YEP email list
See what YEP opportunities are available
KW Habilitation Calendar of Events

YEP helps youth build the skills and confidence needed for adulthood by supporting:

  • Self-confidence

  • Independence

  • Leadership

  • Healthy living

  • Environmental awareness

  • Self-advocacy

  • Community participation

  • Friendship and relationship building

  • Volunteer and employment readiness

  • Safe use of Grand River Transit (GRT)

YEP is open to youth with developmental disabilities who live in Waterloo Region.

Age requirements:

  • YEP Social: Ages 13 to 25

  • YEP Skills: Ages 13 to 25

  • YEP Summer: Ages 13 to 21

Most activities begin at 99 Ottawa Street South, Kitchener before heading out into the community.

YEP often travels throughout Waterloo Region using Grand River Transit (GRT). If a planned activity begins at a different location, families will receive all the details in advance.

Registration opens throughout the year as new sessions and activities become available.

The best way to stay informed is to join the YEP mailing list, where you’ll receive updates about upcoming sessions, activities, registration dates, and special events.

Special Services at Home funding can be used for participants who are under 18.  Passport funding can be used for participants who are 18 years of age or older.

We’re happy to help you find the YEP activity that’s right for you and your family.

Contact our Community Supports team at 226-338-9635 to learn more about upcoming sessions, registration, or funding options.