About Extend-A-Family Waterloo Region
Extend-A-Family Waterloo Region (EAFWR) came into being in 1981, founded by a group of parents who wanted their children who had developmental disabilities to have friends and be included in their community.
Out of this beginning came two foundational values, our commitment to inclusion and the recognition of the importance of relationships in the lives of those we serve.
A deep respect for the knowledge and expertise that is held by families underlies our desire to work in partnership with them, to work alongside and together with the families and adults we serve. This desire extends to working in partnership with others in the community. Our approach is person-centred, focused on the person we serve first and foremost paying close attention to their dreams, needs, abilities, hopes and contributions.
As an organization, Board and Staff, we believe strongly in Servant Leadership. We embrace continuous learning about how to improve the ways in which we serve and we believe and act in ways that are respectful and anti-oppressive.
Thank you for allowing us to serve you.
The organization receives the majority of its funding from the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services (MCCSS) and is governed by a volunteer board of directors made up of supported families and community members.
Read our 2024-2027 Strategic Plan
Mission Statement
“Extend-A-Family Waterloo Region champions an inclusive community for all by working with people with disabilities, their networks and the broader community.”
Vision Statement
“We envision a community where everyone belongs and is valued for their contributions.”
Values
Land Acknowledgment
Extend-A-Family Waterloo Region works directly with several neighbourhoods within our Region. In the spirit of inclusive neighbourhoods and a community of belonging, it is important for us to acknowledge the original community builders of this land.We would like to acknowledge the significant contributions and accomplishments of Indigenous Peoples. We acknowledge the enduring presence and deep traditional knowledge and philosophies of the Indigenous People with whom we share this land today. We respectfully acknowledge that the land on which we gather today is the traditional territory of the Anishnaabe, Haudenosaunee and Neutral peoples. We are currently on the Haldimand Tract, land promised to the Six Nations, which includes six miles on each side of the Grand River.
Discover some of the amazing people who work at Extend-A-Family Waterloo Region.
Learn more about the programs we have to offer.
Find out why we are dedicated to community development, and being grassroots.