Who We Are:
The Kootenay Society for Community Living was formed in the 1950's by family, friends, and community members. The first mandate began with establishing a school for children with developmental disAbilities that evolved into full integration of students into the mainstream of the public schools.
During the 1980's two houses were purchased for eight individuals. A Day Program was started which would become Community Options during the 90's.
KSCL has undergone many changes but most of those have occured since 2000. The Society has since purchased a 4 bed residence in Castlegar, a 2 bed residence in Grand Forks, established a Day Program in Nelson (Bigby Place) and in Grand Forks, has built a 5 bedroom home, and now supports numerous individuals either living independently or with roommates.
In order to accomodate expanding services, the main office and the Community Options program have moved to a new and larger location in 2003. KSCL continues to grow and change; while the main focus remains on supporting the needs of the individuals we provide service for.
Our Mission:
"We will give support, advocate and provide services for People which empowers them to control their lives and to gain acceptance and interdependence within their Community.
Our Philosophy:
All individuals, regardless of their ability, should be given the opportunity to live an independant and dignified life in their own community.
"If I accept you as you are, I will make you worse; however if I treat you as though you are what you are capable of becoming, I help you become that"
Johann Wolfgang Von Goethe