The History of ARTC

Who We Are

The organization was established in the early 1970’s when the Public Health Unit recognized the social isolation of people with disabilities living at home and that an in home-visiting program was not enough.

In June of 1971 the need to offer more support to a growing number of persons living with compromised health who were becoming more and more isolated and discouraged was identified by Norine Rowley, Public Health Nurse and Mary McGraw, individual living with Multiple Sclerosis.

The purpose was to develop a mutual support system which belonged to the people involved. The group would invite the help of professionals as a resource.

ARTC Timeline

  • September 1971 the group organized and was officially named “the Family Living Group” with the motto “we help ourselves by helping others”
  • 1972 under the auspices of the Brantford General Hospital Mutual Support Centre, activities were offered to members of the FLG, and to hospital in-patients. Volunteers contributed to the program’s success.
  • Numerous Local Initiative Grants were applied for by the group to hire staff and to provide transportation to the program. This was the start of Brantford’s first accessible transportation service, Brantford Lift
  • 1975 FLG moves from the hospital out into community space, thrive with craft sale and Charity Bingo revenue and support of volunteers
  • 1983 incorporates as the Family Living Group
  • 1984 Move to Newport Street
  • 1997 Move to Morton Avenue
  • 1999 Move to Henry Street. Legally re-name to “Adult Recreation Therapy Centre, financial struggles as a result of Charity Bingo closing- almost had to dissolve organization but became funded through united way, and eventually some dollars from MOH
  • 2001 introduction of a formalized “Aphasia “Program supported financially through a grant from the Rotary Club of Brantford Sunrise
  • 2005 received increase in base funding from MOH to address increased demand for day program service
  • 2006 opened satellite program in the county of Brantford at the Willett site
  • 2012 introduced SAFE Zone our community-based exercise and falls prevention program
  • 2015 moved to new building at 58 Easton Road made possible by our many partners

Join us in making a difference!

Your contribution can help the Adult Recreation Therapy Centre continue its 50+ years of empowering seniors, disabled adults, families, and caregivers in Brantford and beyond.

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