maih

I am maih

This is to see, invent and change our perceptions of what intellectual disability is. Each of us shares this new vision which strives to better integrate people with intellectual disability (with or without ASD) by leveraging the strengths and talents of each person.

This is to see, invent and change our perceptions of what intellectual disability is.

Since 1935

Social inclusion

The concept of social inclusion means having to examine, rethink and change our perceptions of intellectual disability. Each and every one of us has a stake in this new vision, which seeks to better integrate people with intellectual disabilities by focusing on their individual strengths and talents.

Who are we?

We are a community organization that has been around since 1935. Our mission is to accompany and support people with intellectual disabilities so that they can reach their full personal and social potential and find fulfilment.

We want each person with an intellectual disability to be recognized as a rightful member of our society at every stage of his or her life.

Our history

The Association was founded in 1935 by a small group of parents wanting better lives for their intellectually disabled children. At a time when the intellectually disabled were routinely institutionalized, these parents fought against the prevailing public opinion of the period, determined to try to provide a normal life for their children.

Over the years the MAIH started many new services for the intellectually disabled, including the first schools, workshops, camps and residences. In the 1970s, the provincial government accepted its responsibility for these basic services, and since that time the MAIH has turned its attention to developing new and innovative programs corresponding to the ever-evolving needs of people with intellectual disabilities and their families.

Encouraged by its history and experience, the MAIH is working harder than ever to see people with an intellectual disability living as fully participating members of their community.

Our areas of activity

The person with an intellectual disability

Starting from their experiences and needs
Reinforcing their skills and abilities
Facilitating their active participation in the community
Encouraging their civic involvement

The family

Starting from their experiences and needs
Providing information and support
Creating opportunities for the sharing of common experiences and offering mutual support
Supporting their active involvement

The community

Educating the community about intellectual disability
Creating opportunities for contact between people with an intellectual disability and the public
Sparking interest in encouraging and supporting the social inclusion of people with an intellectual disability