Organization History

In 1967, a group of parents and friends founded what is now known as Community Living Durham North. Our original purpose was to operate a school on Scugog Island for children who had intellectual disabilities, who, at that time, were not generally served by the public school system.

So much as changed since then. Today’s schools are inclusive, and the large, segregated institutions of the past have been closed.

The purpose of our organization today is to support people who have an intellectual disability to live, work and enjoy life in the community within which they live. We believe that people who have disabilities must be empowered to:

• Live as independently as possible, supported to the extent that is necessary to meet individual needs
• Make real choices, however those choices are expressed
• Enjoy real friendships and other naturally supportive relationships
• Experience the security of unquestioned inclusion in their community

Our vision is that all persons live in a state of dignity, share in all elements of living in the community and have the opportunity to participate effectively.