A Timeline of Our History
1974
A Place to Call Home
The Cedars was opened in 1974 and was the first group home of Communitas (then MCC BC Mental Health Committee.) Later that year, they opened their second home, Twin Firs. Both homes operated with a house-parent model.
1974
An Unchanged Mission
Our organization began in the 1970s and while many things have changed in the 50 years since then, our mission has stayed the same.
1978
Making Choices and Connections
Communitas’ longest running service began in 1978, supporting people in community. Read this inspiring story https://www.communitascare.com/stories/a-legacy-of-person-centred-care/
1980
Reclaiming Home
Communitas was part of the community living movement that brought people out of institution and into community
1984
A New Model for Home Living
Between 1984 and 1989, Communitas established four homes for people living with disabilities. Some, like the one pictured above, are still in use today.
1986
Day Services Begin
Our Community Living Program (CLP) was the first of many day services we offer today.
1990
Infant King Records begins
IKR recording label produced dozens of recordings, the sale of which supported Communitas’ services. This recording is from the West Coast Mennonite Chamber Choir’s album, titled “In a grain of sand.”
Listen
1990
Support Towards Employment Program Takes Its First STEPs
STEP supported people living with mental health challenges to find meaningful work through various social enterprises. It continues this work today.
1992
Journey to Wellness
Communitas was privileged to be a part of providing services and adapting to the needs of community mental health, something we continue to do today.
1992
MCCSCS Forms
In 1992, a separate legal entity was formed called Mennonite Central Committee Supportive Care Services (MCC SCS).
Visit MCCBC
1992-1999
Home Living Options Grow
The 90s saw enormous growth in Home Living Options with homes opening in the Fraser Valley, Okanagan, and the Fraser Valley
1992
Meaningful Contributions
Communitas Enterprises supports people living with diverse abilities as they look for meaningful work in their communities.
1995-1997
Branching Out
We expanded our services into North Vancouver Island and the Okanagan
1999
Acquired Brain Injury Supports Begin
Drop-In Centres for people living with ABI are established in Chilliwack and Abbotsford
2007
MCCSCS Becomes Communitas
2007 when MCC SCS officially changed its name to Communitas Supportive Care Society.
2012
Communities of Care
From children to adults, Communitas is creating communities of care, providing person-centred care throughout a person’s life.
2013
Matthew’s House Opens
In 2013, Communitas celebrated the opening of Matthew’s House, a respite home for families with children who have complex health care issues.
