In 2003 a group of local mothers (our four founding mothers: Debbie Brown, Carol Cain, Nancy Gowing & Nancy Tew-Seberras) wanted something different for their children living with developmental disabilities. At the age of 21, their children had aged out of the public school system. Unfortunately, the next stages of life, including post-secondary education, independent living, or obtaining employment, were not manageable or available for them. These forward-thinking mothers wanted more for their children. They wanted affordable programs offering lifelong learning, a social and welcoming environment and inclusive community experiences.
In November of 2003, with the help of a Trillium Foundation grant, with just two staff and 10 participants, CABLC opened its doors at 25 Bell Lane and started delivering on its original mission “to provide dynamic programs and opportunities designed to maximize individual potential for adults living with developmental challenges.”
In addition to our regular programming, employment is offered through CABLC’s social enterprise Shredding Barriers, a safe and secure document destruction service. Launched in 2016, Shredding Barriers provides part-time employment to 22 individuals living with varying abilities, providing them with the opportunity to earn a pay cheque and demonstrate their abilities in a business environment.
In April 2018 CABLC moved to its new location at 65 Sky Acres Drive. To make the dream of owning our own space a reality, the Connections Capital Campaign launched on May 4, 2018, with a goal to raise $2.5 million to purchase and upgrade an old elementary school as the permanent home of Crossing All Bridges Learning Centre and Shredding Barriers. After leasing for over 16 years, owning our own space provides long-term stability and opportunity for growth.
Crossing All Bridges Learning Centre receives no government funding for its operations. Revenue is generated entirely through tuition, grants, donations and fund raising.