1970s

Our story begins in the 1970s when Mennonite Central Committee British Columbia (MCC BC) was approached by a parent-initiated organization called "The Samaritan Society for Comfort and Cheer."  This organization asked for help to establish homes for their sons and daughters who lived with a disability. MCC BC agreed to help and opened its first two group homes in 1974. The focus was to nurture people toward greater independence and interdependence in a supportive Christian environment.

1980s

The 80s brought an invitation from the Province of British Columbia to assist with the de-institutionalization of its provincial facilities accommodating individuals with a disability. During this decade another change occurred when the house-parent model switched to a "come and go" staffing model. These two paradigm shifts resulted in significant growth, providing more service opportunities to more residents and clients.

1990s

Our vision continued to grow and our ministry thrived resulting in a decision made in 1992 to establish a separate legal entity called Mennonite Central Committee Supportive Care Services (MCC SCS). During this decade we also began supporting individuals who have a diagnosed mental illness and those who live with an acquired brain injury. Pre-employment and work readiness programs for individuals living with a mental illness were implemented. We experienced geographic growth meeting various needs of those living in the North Vancouver Island and Okanagan regions of British Columbia.

2000s

As we entered the 21st century, other avenues of service were pursued and added to our program portfolio. We expanded our borders beyond British Columbia to include a new partnership with the Florence Centre, a community development organization in the Ukraine. Support for individuals living with a fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) and care for people who are seniors were welcome additions.

In 2007 another milestone was achieved when MCC SCS officially changed its name to Communitas Supportive Care Society. Communitas, a Latin noun, is rich in meaning and significance. Its meaning includes an understanding of "a community where all people are equal." While our name has changed, our philosophy and culture of care, service, support and accountability remain the same.

Today

Today, we are enjoying our 35th year of serving residents and clients in British Columbia. We continue to look for new and creative ways to address the needs of seniors and assist adults with disabilities.