About us

OCAPDD/Open Hands provides support to hundreds of persons with developmental disabilities, in every aspect of life whether seeking work opportunities, securing living arrangements or dealing with day-to-day tasks. Since fully a third of the people supported by OCAPDD are also affected by physical disabilities and other medical considerations, the scope of the organization's support is in direct response to level of need.

OCAPDD's and Open Hands' management team oversees the operation of several residential services, recreation programs and support services, which in turn are staffed by several hundred full-time and part-time employees who support individuals living either in family settings or independently. Residential programs are open 365 days a year, with night and relief staff playing a crucial role. A manager is on call at all times.

A volunteer board of directors, which includes parents of persons with developmental disabilities, ensures the continued health of the Association. Board members are also tireless advocates on behalf of all persons with developmental disabilities.  Other volunteers contribute literally hundreds of hours each month in every conceivable activity, from organizing outings, being a best buddy, tending gardens, servicing computers, mending clothes, and repairing and painting program facilities, to cite just a few examples. Volunteers are also a critical component of OCAPDD’s fund raising where they contribute hundreds of hours in activities such a planting and harvesting garlic and gift wrapping.

Silver Spring Farm Scholarship Award

In 2007, the Board of Directors of the Ottawa-Carleton Association for Persons with Developmental Disabilities (OCAPDD) established the Silver Spring Farm Scholarship Award. This Award was established in recognition of the effort and contributions of numerous community volunteers for having made the Silver Spring Farm Agricultural Project such a resounding success since its inception in 1995.
The Award provides two $2,500 scholarships each academic year, to assist students in their pursuit of a career in the developmental services sector.

Application Process:  Applications will be considered from students pursuing a degree or diploma in the field of Social Sciences or Human Services, at any of the following educational institutions in Eastern Ontario:

1. University of Ottawa 
2. Saint Paul University 
3. Queens’ University
4. Carleton University 
5. Algonquin College
6. Lawrence College
7. La Cité collégiale 

The successful recipients will be selected based upon a written application. All applicants will be requested to provide information on the following areas:

1. Volunteer experience 
2. Academic performance 
3. A personal commentary with respect to the reason for their career selection 
4. Two written & signed references

All applications must be received by OCAPDD no later than March 17, 2023.

Please email applications to ocapdd@ocapdd.on.ca