The MALE Program
Our Program
What is Failure to Launch Syndrome?
Failure to Launch Syndrome is a term used to describe young adults struggling with the transition to adulthood. These individuals often find it challenging to leave home and become self-sufficient, appearing "stuck" or not maturing in an age-appropriate way.
Psychology Today highlights that:
1. Young men in Canada face challenges transitioning into independent adulthood, often referred to as "failure to launch." For instance, around 1 in 4 Canadian boys do not graduate high school on time (which is significantly higher than the rate for girls), and men are underrepresented in tertiary education.
2. Young men are disproportionately represented in the "Not in Education, Employment, nor Training" (NEET) category. The unemployment rate for 25-29-year-old men is twice that of women in the same age group.
3. A significant number of young men in their late twenties are still living with their parents. Approximately 47% of Canadian men in their late twenties reside with their parents, compared to 38% of women.
4. Failure to Launch can have a detrimental impact on mental health. Young men experiencing this syndrome often face loneliness, lack of social capital, and financial instability. This can lead to higher rates of substance abuse, depression, and anxiety.
5. The lack of employment and educational participation can result in social isolation. Many young men feel disconnected from their peers and struggle to form meaningful relationships. (www.psychologytoday.com)
Addressing Failure to Launch Syndrome requires a multifaceted approach, including support for mental health, educational opportunities, and employment programs tailored to young men's needs and offer structured environments to help young men develop life skills, gain independence, and achieve their potential.
Core Program Components
These are the core components of the MALE Program:
1. Therapeutic Support
Psychological support is crucial. This includes individual, group, and sometimes family therapy sessions that address underlying mental health issues, enhance self-awareness, and help participants develop coping strategies for the real world.
2. Life Skills Training
Participants will receive coaching in essential life skills such as budgeting, cooking, time management, and job search techniques. This training will foster independence and build self-confidence.
3. Career and Educational Guidance
Counselors/Coaches will assist participants in setting and achieving educational and vocational goals tailored to their interests and abilities.
4. Social Skills Development
Programs to include components that enhance social skills to help build and maintain healthy relationships.
5. Physical Wellness
Physical health through regular exercise and nutritional counseling will also be a key element of the program.
The Treatment Program
Every young man has potential, but some need more support to unlock it. Regardless of their past or current circumstances, our expertly trained psychologists, coaches and proven techniques will prepare them for the real world in just three (3) months.
The three-month program will be conducted as a day program at our center, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday.
The program operates in four cycles throughout the year. Each cycle will last three months, allowing for focused and intensive support tailored to participants' needs. The program will maintain a low participant-to-staff ratio, enabling personalized attention and support.
The structure will allow participants to receive valuable support and engage in skill-building activities while still maintaining connections with their home environment. The Programme will include therapeutic support, life skills training, career and educational guidance, opportunities for social skill development, and mentorship. Additionally, physical wellness and mental health support will be integral components of the program.
To facilitate sustained growth and well-being, the MALE Program is committed to offering continued support to its participants beyond the 3-month program. Some of the services provided during the program will remain accessible for up to 6 months after completion. This includes access to counseling and therapy services. By extending these resources, the program seeks to ensure that participants have the support they need to build on their progress and achieve lasting success.
Key Benefits of the MALE Program
Some of the key benefits of the MALE Program:
1. Improved Mental Health
The Program hopes to provide a structured environment to address some mental health issues, that will help participants to break free from self-defeating cycles and build confidence.
2. Enhanced Independence
Participants will gain practical skills for independent living, such as budgeting and time management, which boost their confidence and self-reliance.
3. Educational and Career Advancement
Tailored guidance that will help participants identify and pursue educational and vocational opportunities aligned with their life goals.
4. Social Connectivity
Programs that will focus on developing social skills, to enable participants to form meaningful relationships and overcome isolation.
5. Hobbies and Interests
Whether participants pursue photography, woodworking, or volunteering, they will be encouraged to actively engage in the community pursuing their hobbies. Hobbies aren’t just something that is done for fun, but also valuable sources of focus, relaxation, and inspiration.
Admission Criteria
To be eligible for the MALE Program, applicants must meet the following criteria:
Age Requirement
Participants must be male within the age range of 18–29 years.
Motivation and Commitment
Applicants should demonstrate a strong desire for personal growth and active participation in the program.
Assessment Interview
Prospective participants must undergo an interview to assess suitability, goals, and alignment with the program's objectives.
Background Requirements
Applicants should be free from any pending legal disputes or obligations that may prevent full participation in the program.
Referral or Endorsement
A recommendation from a mentor, community leader, or organization.
Meet The Board of Directors
OLIVE ELLIS - PRESIDENT
Relationship Consultant - Olive P. Ellis Consulting Services
With extensive training and experience in Relationship Consulting and Mental Health, Olive has devoted her career to assisting clients in overcoming their relationship challenges and building fulfilling connections. Her work is enriched by a deep commitment to promoting effective communication, trust, and emotional well-being, all driven by a lifelong passion for psychology and the intricate beauty of human relationships.
VANITHA VENKATRAMAN - VICE PRESIDENT
Executive Director, Instepfloors
Vanitha is a dynamic and empathetic professional with a strong background in overseeing sales and marketing operations. She is widely known as Happivani, a certified Happiness and Mindfulness Coach specializing in workplace happiness and teen mindfulness.
DAVID PERRY - TREASURER
Chief Financial Officer, Motion LP
David is a multidimensional Executive and business partner, who has over 25 years proven expertise and innovation in general management, finance, strategic planning, information systems, manufacturing, logistics and business development.
MICHAEL GRANT - DIRECTOR
Michael serves as a Commissioner of Oaths for the Province of New Brunswick and is a multifaceted individual with a remarkable career as an entrepreneur, community leader, and IT professional. He is the Chairman and Founder of the Jamaican Canadian Association of New Brunswick, as well as a licensed Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) with extensive experience representing immigrants at the Immigration Refugee Board (IRB). Holding the distinguished L3 RCIC-IRB designation, Michael has passionately advocated for immigrants throughout his practice.
A former Military Officer in the Jamaica Defence Force, Michael retired as a Lieutenant (Lt) after serving as an Infantry Platoon Commander, among other significant roles. Dedicated to empowering future leaders, he continues to make a lasting impact through his diverse contributions to the community.
BILL GORDON - DIRECTOR
President and CEO, Bright Health Solutions
Bill, an experienced Electrical Engineer, has spent decades excelling as a manager and executive across sectors such as space technology, IOT, cybersecurity, and health IT. Beyond his professional achievements, he enjoys an active lifestyle filled with running, sailing, and exploring the great outdoors through backcountry travel and skiing.
NIKKI SANCHEZ - DIRECTOR
Founder/Director - Decolonize Together
Nikki is an award winning and sought-after Indigenous Media Maker, TEDx Speaker, Author and Trauma Informed JEDI Educator.
Get Involved
How Can You Get Involved?
How Can You Get Involved?
How Can You Get Involved?
The MALE program thrives on the dedication and generosity of individuals like you. There are several meaningful ways you can contribute to our mission of empowering young men aged 18–29 to achieve independence and create brighter futures.
By getting involved, you’re not just supporting the MALE program - you’re empowering the next generation of leaders to reach their full potential.
Together, we can foster resilience, confidence, and long-lasting success.
Sponsorship Opportunities
How Can You Get Involved?
How Can You Get Involved?
Partner with us as a sponsor and play a pivotal role in supporting our programs and initiatives. Your sponsorship helps fund essential resources, workshops, and events that make a lasting impact in the lives of young men across Ontario.
Together, we can foster resilience, confidence, and long-lasting success.
Donating
Volunteer
Volunteer
Every contribution, big or small, helps us meet our goals and support the young men in our program. Your donations allow us to provide free access to critical resources, life skills training, and personalized guidance for our participants.
By donating, you’re not just supporting the MALE program - you’re empowering the next generation of leaders to reach their full potential.
You can donate in the following ways:
- Click the button below to donate directly.
- Send an eTransfer to donate@themaleprogram.com.
- Write a cheque to the Motivation & Assistance for Leadership Empowerment Program.
Volunteer
Volunteer
Volunteer
Join our team as a Volunteer and directly contribute to the success of our program.
Whether you’re mentoring participants, assisting with events, or offering your professional expertise, your time and skills are invaluable in helping us make a difference.
Donate
Your support and contributions are essential in helping us reach our goals and create meaningful improvements. Every generous donation you make directly advances the mission of the MALE program, fostering empowerment and positive change.
