About Us

The Alternative Initiatives Parents Committee began to meet in early 1995 to look at the needs of people with intellectual disabilities whose barriers and challenges were excluding them from utilizing existing service provision.  Their desire was to develop partnerships with community services to work together to effectively serve people with disabilities regardless of their disabilities..  This lead to the realization that individuals planning must be the foundation on which to meet the needs of those we support.

In 1996, vocational/daytime supports were provided to several individuals utilizing only community facilities, activities and employment opportunities.

In 1997 Saskatchewan Alternative Initiatives (SAI) was incorporated as a non-profit Community Based Organization (CBO).

Mission: Saskatchewan Alternative Initiatives, in partnership with citizens who have disabilities, their personal networks and their communities, develop opportunities and freedom of informed choice through personal empowerment designed to meet individual needs.

Objectives:

  • To develop and coordinate lifestyle options for individuals through home, daytime and/or employment supports.
  • To support an individual regardless of their abilities when appropriate resources are available.
  • To ensure supports are designed to meet individual goals and needs.
  • To ensure a personal transition plan is developed with personal networks and other agencies to promote success.
  • To encourage and support families and personal networks.
  • To maintain a fiscally responsible organization.

Our services are provided in two areas:

Vocational/Daytime Supports:

In July 1996 SAI began providing individualized daytime supports in Saskatoon and area.  This support takes place in community settings and accesses local job markets for those seeking employment.  Each individual’s personal goals, interests and abilities are considered when developing this personalized support.

Home Supports:

In the fall of 1997 SAI began providing supports to people in their own homes, and assisting individuals in finding and maintaining their own home as well as looking for suitable roommates.

Each individuals personal goals, beliefs and life rituals are considered when developing this personalized support.

There are two criteria for Saskatchewan Alternative Initiatives to support an individual.

  1. The individual has a disability
  2. Funding supports can be negotiated for the designed supports.

SAI serves people who have a disability whose needs are not being met by existing services.  This service is based upon their personal needs, interests and abilities.

Therefore, there is no set program to fit any one into but rather and individually designed service.  Learning to make choices and to feel confident with their choice is an important aspect of each person’s day and quality of life.

Philosophy Statements

  • Every person is a unique individual and has the right to live a life of dignity and respect.
  • Every person has the same rights and responsibilities.
  • Every person has the right to be recognized as a participating citizen in their community.
  • Every person must have their independence respected; be encouraged and supported in making informed decisions and establishing goals.