CVS was founded in 1978 to provide supports 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 – including respite and children services, as well as adult personal supports. 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. A 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 made also 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 daily in community-based activities.
- 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.
2005
- We successfully achieved our first-ever CARF accreditation in 2005.
2008
- Once again, CARF awarded a 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 rejuvenation. Much dancing, laughter and love filled the lives of each in attendance.
2011
- Our core programs continue to grow and thrive in both Children's and Adult Services, and we have added several new ventures to our list of services: a Foster Family Program, Life Skills Program, Employment-Focused Community Inclusion Programs, and a Shared Living Program.
2014
- After many years, CVS purchased its first building located at 2322 St. John's Street in Port Moody.
2017
- CVS has grown into an organization that has doubled in size since 2013. CVS has also grown in skill and capacity in serving people with challenging behaviours.