CVS was founded in 1978 to provide support and services to people with disabilities and their families.  Since then we have been helping people actively participate in a full range of community life through innovative programs: respite and children services, as well as adult personal supports; and we continue to lead the way in facilitating self-advocacy.


May 29, 1978

• The Society was incorporated as the Second Step Society for Physically Handicapped Adults
• The first service was a sheltered achievement centre:  thrift store, woodworking shop, and craft program were developed to provide training for vocational skills

1990

• Our name was changed to Community Ventures Society, with changes to our location and focus

Mid 90’s

• The organization began expanding to welcome individuals back home to their community from institutions like Woodlands

1992

• The Respite Program was created to serve and support 10 families in family-to-family respite

2003

•  The Association celebrated its 25th anniversary – a remarkable achievement!

2004

• 76 families were supported in family-to-family respite
• 40 individuals, with a variety of abilities and disabilities, were supported in community-based activities daily
• There were more service reductions due to reduced budgets, yet CVS still managed to maintain our high standards of service
• “Individualized Funding”, a new philosophy of service delivery, made its debut
• We successfully achieved our first-ever CARF accreditation 2008

2008

• Once again CARF approved three year accreditation for all CVS programs
• Our CVS Family celebrated 30 Years of Service to the Tri-City Communities.  The many people who have been faithful, devoted and diligent in helping CVS succeed over these years were brought together at a wonderful party for a night of joy and rejuvination.  Much dancing, laughter and love filled the lives of each in attendance.

2011