Hi, I’m Darlene, founder of Heartful Abilities
Group Workshops for Seniors & Adults with IDDRecreation and life-skills programming for seniors and adults with developmental disabilities (IDD) in Ottawa and nearby Ontario communities. Adapted creative arts and culinary skills workshops for retirement homes, day programs, group homes and community agencies.
20+ years in developmental services · Vulnerable sector screened
One-on-one visits for individuals, or creative and wellness experiences for groups and the wider community — every path brings hands-on activities directly to you.
One-on-one, in-home activity visits for adults with developmental disabilities — in a private home or a group home, across Ottawa.
One-on-one, in-home activity visits for seniors — adapted for dexterity, memory, and pace, at home or in a retirement residence.
Creative, seasonal, wellness, and speaker-led experiences for groups, workplaces, faith communities, and public gatherings across Ottawa.
A realistic, step-by-step program for adults with developmental disabilities who want to turn what they love into a small business that is truly theirs. Learn from real experience: I built Heartful Abilities from the ground up, and I’ll walk beside you as you build yours.
Earn up to $1,000 a month in profit with no reduction to your ODSP income support.
$40 per group session · Passport funding may apply
“To bring creative, hands-on activities directly into the homes and communities of adults with developmental disabilities, seniors, and neighbours across Ottawa — building real relationships, one visit at a time.”
Every visit and workshop is led by a Heartful Guide: Darlene herself, or a caring, qualified guide she has personally chosen as our team grows. You get the warmth of one familiar face, backed by standards you can trust.
Darlene meets with you first, learns what matters to you, and matches you with the guide who fits best.
Every guide holds a current Vulnerable Sector Screening and First Aid & CPR, and is covered by liability insurance.
Guides are trained in our approach: ability first, adapted for dexterity and memory, and always at your pace.
Darlene checks in regularly, so you always have someone to call with questions, ideas or changes.
Holiday gatherings in Ottawa and a holiday jewelry art series you can join from home. Tap a flyer to see it full size.
Four evenings, four framed 5×5 keepsakes: Snowman, Holiday Tree, Holiday Bulb and Wreath. Your kit is mailed to you. 7:00–8:30 pm ET. $79 per class with kit, or all 4 for $279 (early bird $259 until Oct 20).
Make a framed jewelry-art keepsake gift before the holiday rush. Afternoon 12:30–4:30 pm or evening 5:00–9:00 pm. $70 per person, all materials included, 12 spots per session.
Make a holiday wreath or outdoor urn arrangement at The Well Café, 111 Church St., Almonte. 1:00–4:00 pm. Free to attend; please bring a non-perishable food item for the pantry at Lanark County Interval House. Evergreen is provided; bring a wreath or urn and your holiday decor. Space for 40, so reserve your free spot early.
A look at real pieces and real cooking sessions from past Heartful Experiences — browse the full galleries any time.
We're growing! We're building a list of warm, qualified people in the Ottawa area to join us as contract Heartful Guides as new visits and workshops come in. If you love helping others create, connect and feel they belong, we'd love to hear from you.
Not sure which Heartful Experience is the right fit? We'd love to help you find the perfect option.
Darlene Valentine
Founder • Community Builder • Experience Guide
📞 613-227-3633
✉️ darlene@heartfulabilities.com
🌐 www.heartfulabilities.com
📍 Ottawa, Ontario
Thursday, October 22 · Speak Your Soul Magicks, 5450 Canotek Rd., Unit 41, Ottawa. Create a 5×7 framed keepsake from vintage pieces, costume jewelry, pearls and crystals: holiday tree, angel, wreath, star or heart. $70 per person, all materials included. Only 12 spots per session. Choose your session:
Jewelry art, keepsakes, gifts and kits, handcrafted with heart.
