Mountain Industries - Atelier la Montagne - The Stepping Stone

On Oct. 2nd, 1978, Mountain Industries opened its doors in Notre Dame de
Lourdes, MB. Mountain Industries was developed in order to provide the
opportunity for 5 or 6 participants with special needs, to have a Day
Program. To this day, it provides basic work skills, life skills and social skills
to over 25 participants.

In over 30 years, the building has expanded with 2 more additions. These
additions include a woodworking area and a craft area, where products are
made with precision and care. It has allowed the original building to now be
a store front that is open to the public.

In 1996, Mountain Industries also opened a satellite program in Carman
called "The Stepping Stone". This program provides supportive employment
to 6 participants with special needs, along with 3 staff. Products made from
Mountain Industries in Notre Dame, along with other consigned craft
products are sold there.

The Stepping Stone provides a great opportunity for the participants to be
involved within the community. Since the store opened in 1996, the
Community of Carman has been extremely supportive and helps provide
employment to our participants allowing them to grow.

After great growth through the 30 years, Mountain Industries now provides
opportunity for work placements in the Notre Dame community for some of
the participants. Also in 2001, Mountain Industries started an informal
recreation and leisure program geared towards aging participants, called
"Golden Links Program".