STAR LEARNING - Summer Prospectus 2018 - A Project of the Louis L. Odette Family Urban Angel Fund for Homeless People - St. Michael's ...

A Project of the Louis L. Odette Family Urban Angel Fund for Homeless People

     STAR                               LEARNING
                                        CENTRE

                                Summer Prospectus 2018

Contents
Welcome 						1
Values and Philosophy
Peer Support and Leadership
Eligibility
How to Register					2
Individualized Learning Plans
STAR Learning Centre
Attendance Policy & Protocols 			   3
STAR Learning Centre Incident
Response Policy					5
STAR Learning Centre
Membership Agreement				7
Course and Workshop guide			        9
Partner Organizations				16

Welcome
What is the STAR Learning Centre?
The STAR (Supporting Transitions and Recovery) Learning Centre is an adult education program and the inaugural
project of the Louis L. Odette Family Urban Angel Fund for Homeless People at St. Michael’s Hospital. STAR is based in
the recovery education centre (REC) model, which provides recovery supports through education. RECs can be based
in a variety of settings, and emphasize functional recovery and the development of practical skills and knowledge that
enhance people’s ability to fully participate in society and in the activities of daily living.

What makes STAR unique?
As Canada’s first REC, STAR’s focus is on supporting the transition of currently or formerly homeless or housing insecure
individuals into successful housing tenure and attainment of wellness, educational and vocational goals. STAR is distinct
from a drop-in centre or a clubhouse in its emphasis on enabling rapid transitions from service-dependent lifestyles to
independent living in the wider community.

Values & Philosophy
    •    At STAR, participants are viewed as members of a learning community, not as patients.
    •    Members take courses rather than engage in therapy, and self-direct their learning plans and their paths
         towards recovery
    •    Members are involved in program and course development
    •    Recovery and health are viewed as holistic concepts, and courses are offered that support people in all areas
         of recovery, from understanding illness to developing life skills,vocational skills and personal interests

Peer Support and Leadership
STAR is based on a co-production model, with many of the course offerings being led or co-led by people with lived
experience. This includes Peer Support staff and STAR members, in collaboration with professionals from the health
care and social service sectors.

Eligibility
STAR Courses and workshops are free for anyone above the age of 16 who has recently experienced homelessness.
STAR Learning Centre does not have a catchment area and there is no cost to attend.

Course Information
We are continuing to offer courses in a range of community venues across the city. For exact session dates, please visit:
star.stmichaelshospital.com

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Opening hours
9:00am-5:00pm, Monday to Friday

How to Register
If you meet the eligibility criteria for STAR and are interested in becoming a member, please follow these steps to enroll
in the program:
Step 1: Call or email us at 647-302-STAR (7827) or STAR@smh.ca to schedule a Registration Appointment
Step 2: During the Registration Appointment, a STAR staff member will assist you in completing a Registration Form
and help you develop your Individualized Learning Plan. During the meeting, you will have an opportunity to identify a
list of STAR courses that you would like to enroll in.
Next Steps: Once you have completed a Registration Form and ILP, you will be registered for courses that you have
listed. If a course is fully booked you will be added to a wait list – this means if another member cancels or withdraws
from a class, you could be offered a place in the class.
Please note: Some STAR courses have prerequisites or may only be open to members from specific diversity groups,
gender specific or youth between the ages of 16-29. STAR Learning Centre reserves the right to cancel courses or change
course dates, times, and/or venues. Additional courses may be added, please visit our website star.stmichaelshospital.
com for the most up-to-date information.

Individualized Learning Plans
An Individualized Learning Plan (ILP) is designed to help STAR members track their progress in the program and work
towards their goals. The information each member provides in the ILP allows STAR staff to better understand each
member’s current situation and assist in meeting their individual needs. Each new member at STAR will be required to
complete an ILP upon registration and can request to review and update the ILP at any point. Members will be asked to
update their ILP prior to starting classes at the beginning of each new semester. STAR staff will then use this information
to suggest courses and workshops that may be relevant to your situation and goals. STAR members have no obligation
to register for classes suggested by STAR staff, as always each member is in charge of managing their goals and learning
at STAR, and identifying the courses that they would like to enroll in.

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STAR Learning Centre Attendance Policy & Protocols

Policy Statement:

   All individuals who attend a class at STAR Learning Centre must be
    registered as a STAR member and registered in each class they attend.

   All STAR members that are registered for a class are expected to attend
    that class.

Attendance Protocol:

   At the beginning of each class, attendance will be taken to confirm
    registered members are present.

   The attendance records will be used to determine eligibility for certificates
    of completion and identify absent members.

Absence Protocol:

   STAR members are expected to inform the STAR Learning Centre if they
    cannot attend a class in which they are registered.

   If a member is absent from a class and have not informed STAR Learning
    Centre of their absence, staff will contact the member regarding their
    absence.

   Members will be allowed two absences without notice each semester with
    no disruption to their course registrations
       o If a third absence without notice occurs, the member will be
          removed from all their current registrations
       o The member will be asked to come in and meet with the Team
          Leader to create a more sustainable schedule

   Members that have been removed from classes may be subject to waitlists
    if they chose to re-enroll in classes that are full

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 When a member misses the first class in a course that consists of more than
     one session, the staff will speak to the member about whether they are still
     eligible to attend that course.

    STAR members are expected to attend at least 75% of each course to be
     eligible to receive a certificate of completion
         o Some trainings and certifications may have different attendance
            criteria. STAR members will be made aware of this upon registration
            for that course.

Late Protocol:

    If a member is going to be late for class they must inform STAR Learning
     Centre as soon as possible. Where possible, STAR Learning Centre staff will
     work with the member to make accommodations.

    If a member is more than 15 minutes late for a class, the member’s
     participation will be at the facilitator’s discretion. The facilitator’s decision
     will be based on whether the member can join the class without
     compromising the learning experience for the members that arrived on
     time

          Members that arrive late and are not permitted to join the session
           will be marked as absent

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STAR Learning Centre Incident Response Policy

Policy Statement:

In order to maintain a safe learning environment, the STAR Learning Centre requires all
participants/members to sign the Membership Agreement before commencing their learning at
STAR. This agreement outlines the expectations required of STAR members. STAR Learning
Centre defines incidents as an occurrence where a member’s behaviour does not follow the
requirements in this agreement. The Incident Response Policy applies to all individuals that
attend STAR Learning Centre programming.

Incident Response Procedures

In most cases members will be redirected when not adhering to the membership agreement
and given the opportunity to correct their behaviour***.

After any incident where a member is not able to adhere to the agreements, the Team Leader
will be notified immediately by a STAR Learning Centre staff member. The incident will be
debriefed in the weekly team meeting-when required an additional team debriefing may be
arranged.

***For incidents that involve violence or that severely compromise a safe learning environment
(including but not limited to assault, death threat, theft), the member may be suspended
immediately from STAR Learning Centre for an indefinite period of time. The timeframe for
suspension will be determined by the STAR team.

First Incident:

An in-person verbal warning will be given to the member within one business day of the event
to communicate the concern that violates the STAR Membership Agreement and offer support
to enable the member to continue their learning at STAR. The next steps in the Incident
Response Policy will also be reviewed with the member to outline what will happen if another
incident occurs.

When an in-person verbal warning is not possible due to circumstances beyond STAR staff’s
control, the warning may be given over the phone.

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Second Incident:

A second verbal warning will be given to the participant within one business day, followed by a
written warning within 5 business days of the event. The member will again be offered support
options to continue their learning at STAR. The member will be provided with a copy of the
written warning, and another will be placed in the member’s file. The member will be asked to
complete an Action Plan as well as sign to confirm receipt of the written warning. The next
steps in the Incident Response Policy will again be reviewed with the member.

As with the first incident, if the verbal warning cannot be given in-person, the STAR staff will try
to reach the participant by phone. When the written warning and action plan cannot be given
to the participant in-person, the documents will be mailed to the member’s address provided
on the registration form. The Action Plan will be required to be completed and returned to the
Administrative Coordinator or Team Leader before attending and/or registering for any
additional classes.

Third Incident:

After the third incident, the member will be asked to take a leave from the STAR Learning
Centre (time determined by STAR Team Leader) and will not be permitted to attend or enroll in
classes during this time. This information will be provided verbally and in writing. A copy of the
letter will be given to the member and another placed in the member file.

During the leave, the member will be offered the option to participate in a return-to-class
process that will require regular meetings with a STAR staff member to ensure the member is
provided with support options that enable the member to return to a safe learning
environment for all.

If the member attempts to attend a STAR class during the suspension, they will be asked to
leave the classroom by a STAR staff member and potentially risk having more time added to
their suspension.

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STAR Learning Centre Membership Agreement

The Louis L. Odette Family Urban Angel Fund for Homeless People STAR Learning Centre is
committed to providing an environment that embraces diversity and respects the needs of
members, instructors and staff. This agreement was developed jointly by staff and members of
the STAR Learning Centre, and outlines STAR members’ commitments to one another. This
Membership Agreement also outlines what you what you can expect in your dealings with us,
and also lets you know your responsibilities as a member of STAR.

Expectations of the member:

      Show respect to all members, at all times.
      Respect confidentiality – what’s said in the group stays in the group. Do not discuss any
       information disclosed by other members or discuss other members’ participation in
       groups with other people.
      Respect other people’s viewpoint, regardless if you agree or disagree.
      Be respectful of other people’s personal space and property.
      Cell phones will be on silent or vibrate and put away while in class. If you need to take a
       call, leave the room. No texting or playing games during class.
      Use respectful language – no threatening, racist/discriminatory language or swearing at
       people. Try to minimize profanity.
      Listen when others are talking
      Avoid side conversations -- have conversations with the rest of the group.
      Share the air – give other people the opportunity to talk and be mindful of the amount
       you are talking.
      Participate in the group to the extent that you are comfortable and know that there are
       no wrong answers,
             Everyone has the right to pass.
      Give positive and constructive feedback to other members and facilitators.
             Positive feedback refers to communicating people’s strengths as opposed to
                shortcomings.
       Attend class on-time and let us know if you are running late or have to miss a class
       (please refer to attendance policy for more details).
      Stay for the full class, if you need to leave early please make arrangements with staff
       prior to class
      Understand that STAR exists as a learning centre, not a therapeutic or treatment facility.
      Do not hesitate to ask us for clarification if there is anything you are not sure about.

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What you can expect from us:

     Provide you with assistance with planning in developing an individualized learning plan.
     Provide you with support to monitor your progress and help you plan for the future.
     Support you if you inform us of any special needs (physical or mental health disabilities,
      language and literacy concerns, learning difficulties, etc.) that might affect your learning
      success.
     Celebrate your successes.
     Welcome your comments, feedback and ideas about how to improve the STAR Learning
      Centre.
     Maintain a focus on learning at all times, rather than on treatment or caretaking.
     Protect your privacy and confidentiality, and not disclose your personal information
      without your consent, except in cases where there is an immediate risk of harm to
      yourself or others.

For more information

Tel: 647-302-STAR (7827)
Tel: 1-855-592-7827 (Toll-free)

STAR@smh.ca
star.stmichaelshospital.com

Office Location:
40 Oak Street
Toronto, ON M5A 2C6

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Summer 2018 Course Descriptions

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Health & Wellbeing

Peer Mentoring Group
Come connect in this peer to peer support group designed to support new members at STAR by connecting
them with established members. Various issues and topics discuss each session.

WRAP Level 1 – w/ wellness electives (in collaboration with Health Out Loud)
WRAP (Wellness Recovery Action Plan) was developed in 1997 by people dealing with their own mental
health challenges, looking to lead a more fulfilling life. In this course, participants will design their own
plan to effectively deal with life’s challenges, improving health and quality of life over time. This course
also includes a weekly wellness elective component, with various guest speakers, fitness activities, and
nutritional information.

Self-Care
 In this workshop we will gain an understanding of self-care, identify the role it plays in our life, and put
together tools and techniques for our own self-care plan.

Telling Your Story
Our experiences can be inspirational and motivational to others. Looking back on them can help us see
how far we’ve come and help us continue our journey when times get tough. In this class, we will build
the tools to share the stories of our lives with others.

Youth Peer Support Group
Come connect with other youth peers (16 to 29 years of age) and discuss various topics and issues.

Fundamentals of Addiction
What is Addiction? What can be done to treat and/or prevent addictions? In this course members will learn
how biological, psychological, social factors, and more play a role in addiction while also gaining an
understanding of the effects of addictions, including gambling, psychoactive drug use, alcohol use, and other
forms of addictions. Participants will also learn about community resources and best practice approaches to
treatment as well as harm reduction strategies and initiatives.

A Holistic Me (STAR member developed course)
The session will cover holistic exercises for Mind, Body, and Spirit. We will learn to understand ourselves - our
very own unique self. Some breathing & relaxation techniques, Self-massage for relieving Stress & increasing
our concentration abilities.

Feelings & Needs
Through learning the practice of Non-violent communication, we will explore how our words and actions are
based in universal feelings and needs, how to identify them, and how to get our needs met. This course is
designed to help us get in touch with our natural state of compassion, leading to improved conflict
resolution, connection, and understanding of ourselves and others.

Mindfulness without Borders
Discuss mindfulness in its broader form and practice mindfulness breathing techniques. Members will learn
techniques they can incorporate easily into their daily routines.

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Gaining Autonomy with Medications
In this course we take a different look at the role medications play in our lives. Are they right for you?
What’s the right dose? Do you know how to talk to your doctor about medications? How do you manage side
effects? We will address these questions, while learning how to make more informed decisions about our
health.

                              Life Skills & Development
Building Self Confidence
Self-confidence can affect the way we relate to others and ourselves. In this course we will discuss what self-
confidence is and learn tools to cultivate stronger confidence in one’s self and the choices we make.

Boundary Setting
Do you know how to say “yes” or “no” in a way that is helpful to yourself and others? Do you sometimes
feel like a doormat or try to control everything around you? This course offers practical tips for
communicating and engaging effectively with the people in your life including family, friends, health
care teams, and other service workers.

Anger Management
Sometimes our emotions can spiral out of control. This course will help you recognize signs that you are
becoming angry, help you understand how to better control your responses, and take action in a
positive way.

Triggers
Do you know what events and circumstances trigger distress? Explore your own experiences to better
identify what your triggers are, and how to respond in a way that works for you.

Social Skills (STAR member developed course)
This group will focus on developing positive social skills, reading social cues, and developing positive
relationships.

Baking on a Budget
Learn more about baking in a h e a lth y a n d co st e ffe ctive w a y. We will review proper food safety,
skills/ techniques and recipes f o r simple and easy to prepare baked goods.

Communication Skills
How do you communicate and interact with other people? Would you like to improve your interpersonal
skills? These skills can help you develop strong relationships, advocate for your needs, and help support
others. It will focus on various tools you can use to better relate with others as well as learn tips for
communicating effectively with people in your life.

Getting the Future You Want
If you want to change your present, it’s important to learn how to look ahead to the future. In this course we
explore how to set and achieve goals and navigate barriers along the way. Take control of your life and see
that you can create change.

Intro to Culinary Arts
This program combines nutrition education, food skills and employment support. Participants develop job
skills, build social networks and learn about food safety and healthy eating.
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Healthy Eating 101
This class will focus on exploring healthy foods and how to include this into your daily life. Join us to explore
easy, affordable and healthy recipes and we cook as a group!

Vegan/Vegetarian 101
This food skills class will explore vegan/vegetarian foods and how to incorporate into your daily life.

Healthy Home Cooking under $5
Come learn how to prepare a variety of healthy and great tasting meals for under $5.

Borscht & Beyond (STAR member developed course)
Learn to cook 3 classic Russian dishes! Hearty & Healthy recipes, simplified.

Transitions and Community Connections
Do you know what resources, programs, and events are happening in your community? Join us for a
workshop that will include guest speakers from various other community organizations and programs
discussing how to get involved, field trips, and discussion focusing around getting more connected to tings in
your community.

Microsoft Office & Computer Basics
Whether you have no experience with computers or are looking to increase you skills, this course will help
you. Participants will explore the difference between hardware and software, the basics behind using a
computer, set up their own email account, and will be introduced to programs such as Microsoft Word, Excel,
and PowerPoint. Participants will also explore using the internet and how to safely search for information.

Financial Literacy
Do you feel your finances are out of control? Do you have difficulty living within your means? In this
workshop, you will learn tips on managing your finances. You will also learn where to open a bank account,
how to pay your bills, the potential impact of using cheque-cashing services, budgeting tips and tricks to
maximize your monthly income.

Nutrition 101: Various topics
Join Karley, your in-store dietitian at Loblaw’s on a journey through the grocery store to learn about quick
and easy meals to make. Karley will also talk about reading foods labels, and how to transform budget
friendly convenience items into a healthier meal. There will be a food demonstration with healthy foods for
you to try and recipes that are sure to inspire!

Mind Games (STAR member developed course)
Harness the amazing power of your mind with games like chess, puzzles, and crosswords. Come improve your
mental fitness and health with us.

Real Meals (STAR member developed course)
You don’t have to have a lot of money to eat well, come learn how to eat well on a budget.

Storytelling (STAR member developed course)
Learn how to write your tale with tips and tricks from an expert.

Master Plan (STAR member developed course)
In this workshop you will discuss skills for success through goal setting and organization.

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Vocational & Educational Skills
Facilitation Skills
If you have ever thought about facilitating groups, this is a great place to start. In this 10 week course you will
learn about facilitating workshops, classes, and meetings. In this class, we will cover the ins and outs of
supporting different group environments, developing materials, the importance of self-care, and how to
handle difficult situations. Participants will have an opportunity to create and facilitate a workshop at the end
of the course.

Peer Support Training – Level 1 (In collaboration with Mood Disorders Association of Ontario)
Participants in this course will gain an understanding of the foundations of the peer support. There will be
opportunities to learn about and practice one on one peer support, group facilitation, and communication
techniques. Prerequisite: To register for this course you must have completed the WRAP Level 1 and provide
proof of certification.

Doc & Talk
Come join us to watch educational and inspiring documentaries on various topics and then discuss them
afterwards.

Read, Write, Share
Read, Write and Share at STAR where members choose passages of a book they are currently reading and
share their reactions. Join us at the Reference Library, where we will discover the shelves and practice
writing. Members can bring their own or select a book from the library to use

CPR
In this 2-hour course, participants will learn the lifesaving skills of hands-only CPR for adults, children
and infants. The course also covers how to use an AED (automated external defibrillator) and how to
help adults, children or infants who are choking. Please note this course contains hands-on practice
rounds and is interactive.

Clinician Series
Various Healthcare professional will discuss their roles, how to access certain services, and what to
expect when accessing these types of services.

OW/ODSP: Hidden Benefits (In collaboration with Toronto Employment & Social Services)
Are you aware of all the current rules and regulations when it comes to OW and ODSP? In this workshop, we
will take a look at all the current policies in place that affect those who receive these supports.

Public Speaking
Build confidence, increase your ability to communicate effectively, and feel more comfortable talking in front
of others. Join us as we discover our hidden talents while learning how to speak to a group of people

WRAP Level 2 – Facilitation Training
This course is an opportunity to use the valuable tools you have developed and learned through WRAP level 1
through facilitating group discussions. Participants will learn the skills they need to effectively run a WRAP
Level 1 group. Prerequisite: To register for this course you must have completed the WRAP Level 1 training
and provide proof of certification.

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Kusama - Infinity: Film Screening (In collaboration with Toronto International Film Festival)
Kusama – Infinity explores contemporary artist Yayoi Kusama’s journey from a conservative upbringing in
Japan to her brush with fame in America during the 1960s — where she rivaled Andy Warhol for press
attention — and concludes with the international fame she finally achieved within the art world, in spite of
her battles with sexism, racism, and mental illness.

         Exercise, Recreation, & Community Engagement

Muay Thai
Come join us to learn about Muay Thai, in this beginners class open to youth participants.

Lift Up: CrossFit (In collaboration with Academy of Lions) **
Lift Up is catered to individuals looking to improve their lives through CrossFit and community. Lift Up is a
safe, supportive and physically active environment for those dealing with mental health and/or addiction
issues. Each week, participants will go through a casual group check-in, followed by a CrossFit WOD (work out
of the day!). These WODs are scalable and geared to any and all fitness levels.

Creative Expressions Series
Do you want to reinforce your recovery through artistic expression? Come join us as we explore the Creative
Works Studio* and learn how you can add the Arts to your growth. This class will focus on what is creativity,
where to find it and how to express it. Monthly course topics are:

    1. Medium Mashup: Join us as we use tactile mediums and other art activities.

    2. Origami: Origami is the art of paper folding, which is often associated with Japanese culture. Come
       learn how to transform paper in to works of art.

    3. Painting: (STAR member developed course) Express yourself through painting using various
       mediums. This class is open to all skill levels.

    4. Drawn Together: (STAR member developed course) Enjoy learning how to compose a drawing
       using a variety of fundamental techniques. This class is designed to introduce you to the basics of
       drawing. This course will use still-life setup, pictures, and/or our environment as sources of visual
       inspiration. A great class for beginners.

Hill/Cardio Training & Yoga **
Come build your physical and mental strength. This course involves a mix of cardio and strengthening
exercises designed to improve one’s overall health. Whether you are training for a race or just trying to build
endurance and strength this class is for everyone and is designed for all fitness levels. Or you can chose to
become more Zen and work on flexibility and mobility with our Peer led yoga class offered at the same time.
Please be aware that this course is weather dependent each week, if it is raining it will be cancelled that day.
If unsure due to bad weather call STAR to confirm the class is still on.

One Strength (In collaboration with One Academy) **
Join us for a mix of cardio and lifting/strengthening exercises designed to improve overall health. This 60 min
training session will challenge you but also make you feel stronger mentally and physically. This class is
designed for all fitness levels.

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Walk & Talk **
Did you know walking can be a great way to benefit your mind and body? Join us as we explore the City
of Toronto on foot. This is an opportunity to meet new people, share great conversation, get exercise,
and learn about the history of the city. Walking routes are intended to be accessible, leisurely, and low-
barrier.

End of Summer Celebration
Come celebrate yours and your fellow member’s successes as we wrap up the semester. Drinks and snacks
will be served as certificates will be awarded for all your hard work.

Field Trip: AGO (Art Gallery of Ontario)
Are you interested in the world of art? Join us for a tour of the Art Gallery of Ontario.

Field Trip: ROM (Royal Ontario Museum)
Join us for a tour of the Royal Ontario Museum as we explore our natural history through various eras,
civilizations and cultures.

Town Hall
Join us each month for our Town Hall meeting where we will discuss program related issues. What’s working
well, and what’s not. Come offer your input on how to improve current programming or help us develop new
programming to better meet the needs of our members.

Awakening Dance Movement (STAR member developed course)
Learn the basics of connecting to your body, mind, and spirit through dance, all fitness and mobility levels are
welcome.

* Please note: Creative Works Studio is not wheelchair accessible. If you need assistance with a
walker/stroller down the stairs, please contact STAR staff prior to session.

**Please note: As with all physical activity comes the risk of injury. If you have any health conditions that
would be of concern while participating, it is recommended you speak with your GP and/or your health care
team to make sure this type of physical activity is suitable for you.

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Partner Organizations

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STAR LEARNING CENTRE
Tel: 647-302-STAR (7827)
Tel: 1-855-592-7827 (Toll-free)
STAR@smh.ca
star.stmichaelshospital.com