Meet Matthew

Matthew, a neurodiverse job seeker with a passion for visual arts and graphic design, struggled to secure opportunities in retail despite his talents and determination. For him, working at Michaels wasn’t just any job—it was his dream job, perfectly aligned with his interests and creative passions.

When Matthew learned about Michaels’ “Makers Like Me” program, designed to create equal opportunities for talent with developmental disabilities, he saw his chance. Through Reena’s Supported Employment program, Matthew connected with the program at Michaels Downsview, where Assistant Store Manager Natasha interviewed him based on what mattered most: his abilities, attitude and motivation.

Matthew was thrilled when he received the job offer. From his first day, the entire Michaels team, led by Cathy and Natasha, welcomed him with open arms, providing comprehensive training and embracing the onsite job coaching that reinforced his workplace success.

Almost one year later, Matthew has built a successful career at Michaels. He’s become a valued team member who genuinely loves his work, gaining tremendous confidence and valuable experience in the competitive job market. His transformation from job seeker to successful employee demonstrates what’s possible when employers look beyond disabilities to see individual potential.

With gratitude to the management and staff at Michaels Billy Bishop Way, Reena awarded the store the Champion of Workplace Inclusion Certificate of Appreciation. Cathy and Natasha deserve this recognition for creating a safe, respectful and inclusive workplace that makes career dreams reality.

Matthew’s journey shows how inclusive workplaces don’t just change individual lives—they strengthen entire communities by recognizing that everyone has something valuable to contribute.

1,000+

Individuals supported by Reena

1,200+

Hours given by dedicated volunteers

860

Caring Employees

Unlimited

Impact

More Stories That Inspire

Building independence with Paige

Meet Paige, whose simple question “When do I get to live on my own like my sister?” sparked an incredible transformation. From overcoming early medical challenges to mastering life skills through Reena’s programs, Paige’s story shows that with the right support, every dream becomes possible.

More Stories on the Way

Each month brings a new story of empowerment and joy. Do you know someone whose life has been changed by Reena? Nominate them to be the next featured hero in our series!

Call to Action

Nominate Our Next Reena Hero

Centred Content

A Year of Impact

Every day we’re honoured to witness incredible transformations happening right in our community – and we couldn’t be more proud to spotlight these stories for you.

Our Year of Impact celebrates the real people behind our mission. From Paige building skills for independent living, to Matthew pursuing his career dreams, these stories showcase what happens when we believe in potential and provide the right support.

We’re proud of the life-changing moments we help create, of the confidence we help build, and the independence we help achieve. But most of all, we are proud of the incredible individuals we serve who inspire us every single day to keep creating possibilities. Thank you for the positive impact you leave on us.

How you can help make an impact

Donate image

Donate

Your support helps us to continue making an impact for those we serve and in our community.

See Ways to Donate
Volunteer image

Volunteer

By joining our volunteer team, you will directly contribute to the exceptional experiences and life-changing support we deliver every day.

Join Our Team
Share image

Share

Amplify the story of someone you know in our Reena community and share the life-changing impact of our programs.

Share Our Stories

Frequently Asked Questions

Reena supports over 1,000 individuals with developmental disabilities through a variety of services:

  • Housing: 32 group homes and 60+ supported independent living apartments
  • Community Programs: Flexible day programs tailored to individual interests and schedules
  • Employment Support: Job coaching and career development services
  • Respite Services: Short-term relief and support for families
  • Specialized programs: Services for autism, mental health challenges and other developmental disabilities

For more information about the services we offer, reach out to 905.889.6484 or info@reena.org

Your support directly helps fund transformational housing projects and vital programs, including day programs, respite services and employment support.

Your impact helps:

Housing: Helps address the 12,000+ person waitlist for specialized housing in Ontario

Programs: Funds equipment, activities, and services beyond the scope of government funding

Employment: Supports job coaching and career development services

Individual growth: Enables more journeys to independence and community engagement, helping all individuals to thrive

Thank you for your interest in volunteering with us! We are always looking for dedicated and caring individuals to join our team.

For full information on our volunteer recruitment process, visit reena.org/volunteer