On January 28th, 1959, the Sunshine Coast Association for Community Living (SCACL) was officially incorporated as a Society, then known as the "Sechelt & District Association for Retarded Children". This marked the beginning of our commitment to supporting individuals with diverse abilities in our community.

On June 6th, 1985, our organization took a significant step towards inclusivity by changing its name from the Sechelt & District Association for Retarded Children to the Sunshine Association for the Handicapped. This name change reflected our evolving understanding and commitment to supporting individuals with diverse abilities in our community.

In the beginning, SCACL operated entirely on volunteer efforts, with no dedicated facilities for daytime activities or group homes. As the organization expanded, it established the Achievement Centre, a hub for community engagement and skill-building, particularly in woodworking projects.

Milestones:

• 1988: Fairview residence opened, providing supported living for 5 years
• 1991: Achievement Centre closed, marking a shift in service delivery
• 1993: Fairview residence closed, leading to new community living initiatives

These developments reflect SCACL's adaptability and commitment to evolving community needs in supporting individuals with diverse abilities.

In 1998, SCACL expanded its residential support services with the opening of Turnstone House. This multi-functional facility features:

• A two-story layout with 3 bedrooms on the upper floor
• 2 bedrooms and a suite on the ground floor
• Adaptable spaces to meet evolving community needs

Over time, Turnstone House has undergone strategic renovations to enhance its services:

• Consistent residential support on the upper floor
• An emergency respite room on the lower level, accessible via interior stairs
• A one-bedroom rental suite on the ground floor

These thoughtful adaptations demonstrate SCACL's commitment to providing flexible, person-centered living options for individuals with diverse abilities in our community.

In a significant milestone for SCACL, Glen McClughan assumed the role of Executive Director in 2000. This leadership change marked a new chapter in our organization's journey, bringing fresh perspectives and innovative approaches to our mission of fostering inclusive communities for individuals with diverse abilities.

Key highlights of Glen McClughan's appointment:

• Continued expansion of community-based programs
• Enhanced focus on person-centered support strategies
• Strengthened partnerships with local businesses and organizations

Under Glen's leadership, SCACL further solidified its position as a cornerstone of support for individuals with diverse abilities on the Sunshine Coast, paving the way for continued growth and impact in the years to come.

In 2000, SCACL expanded its inclusive housing options with the acquisition of Rosecliffe Residence. This single-story home offers:

• Accessible support for individuals with diverse mobility needs, including non-ambulatory residents
• Prime location in downtown Sechelt, promoting community integration
• Spacious garden for outdoor enjoyment and therapeutic activities

Recent renovations have enhanced Rosecliffe's capacity and functionality:

• 3 bedrooms to accommodate residents with varying support needs
• Additional rental suite, fostering independent living opportunities

Rosecliffe Residence exemplifies SCACL's commitment to providing person-centered, accessible living spaces that empower individuals with diverse abilities to thrive in their community.

On July 1, 2005, Community Living BC (CLBC) was established, marking a significant milestone in supporting individuals with diverse abilities. This groundbreaking initiative responded to the community's desire for greater autonomy and control over their lives.

Key Developments:

• Residential Options Project (2006): Introduced innovative approaches to residential support
• Homeshare: Emerged as the most popular residential option, promoting community integration
• Person-Centered Planning: Ensured tailored support for each individual's unique needs

CLBC's establishment revolutionized community living services, emphasizing choice, flexibility, and independence for individuals with diverse abilities and their families.

http://www.communitylivingbc.ca/about-us/history/

In 2007, SCACL collaborated with developers to create the Midtown project, a significant milestone in affordable housing. This innovative development features:

• 24 contemporary-designed loft units in prime downtown Sechelt location
• Barrier-free design for maximum accessibility
• 4 SCACL-owned suites providing stable, affordable housing for individuals we serve

The Midtown project exemplifies SCACL's commitment to inclusive, accessible living spaces that empower individuals with diverse abilities to thrive in the heart of their community.

In 2012, SCACL formed a strategic partnership with Persephone Brewery, a local craft beer producer. This collaboration led to:

• SCACL becoming shareholders in the brewery
• Involvement in various stages of beer production
• Development of Persephone Farms for hop cultivation and food production

Key Benefits:

• Sustainable Employment: The partnership creates diverse job opportunities for individuals supported by SCACL
• Skill Development: Participants gain valuable experience in agriculture and brewing industries
• Community Integration: The project fosters inclusion and visibility for individuals with diverse abilities

As demand grows annually, SCACL proudly offers increasing employment opportunities in this vibrant, inclusive setting, showcasing our commitment to meaningful work experiences for individuals with diverse abilities.

Persephone Brewery website

On April 1, 2014, SCACL made a significant investment in community support by acquiring Suite #104, previously owned by Samaritan Training. This strategic purchase has greatly enhanced our capacity to serve the community:

• Spacious Open Area: Ideal for hosting interactive workshops and larger community meetings
• Versatile Space: Adaptable for various programs and activities to support individuals with diverse abilities
• Central Location: Easily accessible, promoting increased community participation and engagement

This acquisition marks a pivotal step in SCACL's commitment to providing comprehensive support services and fostering a more inclusive community on the Sunshine Coast.

In July 2018, SCACL expanded its residential support services with the acquisition of Apple Orchard House. This strategic addition to our portfolio of group homes demonstrates our ongoing commitment to providing diverse, high-quality living options for individuals with diverse abilities.

Key features of Apple Orchard House:

• Comfortable, home-like environment promoting independence
• Tailored support services to meet individual needs
• Prime location fostering community integration

The addition of Apple Orchard House reinforces SCACL's dedication to creating inclusive, supportive living spaces that empower residents to thrive in their community.

The Board of Directors appointed Clarence Li as the new Executive Director in 2019. Li, bringing a unique blend of experience as both a former St. Hilda's Pastor and SCACL Board member, was chosen to lead the organization into its next chapter of community service and advocacy.

Key highlights of Clarence Li's appointment:

• Extensive background in community leadership and service
• Intimate knowledge of SCACL's mission and operations from board experience
• Vision for expanding SCACL's impact and inclusivity initiatives

Under Li's leadership, SCACL continues to strengthen its commitment to fostering an inclusive community for individuals with diverse abilities on the Sunshine Coast.