KIWANIS AND THE HISTORY OF AVATIL
“Over the 50 years of our existence, the parents who started the organization obtained 3 buildings. This was important in order to help fulfill our mission of preparing and supporting young persons with mild cognitive challenges to live on their own in the community and help them avoid social isolation.
Kiwanis House is a cozy setting for 3-4 persons who need more time to practise their new independent living skills. We had noticed over the years that after completing the 2 year "Transition to Independent Living Program" at our 40th avenue duplex, not every person was ready to immediately live on their own in the community. So a transitional living residence was needed. Since we were able to obtain Kiwanis House in 2001, graduates of the above program have been able to choose to live at Kiwanis House for a few years if needed. This has allowed more time for them to transition to full independent living in their own apartment in the community.”
- Marjie Rutherford, President, AVATIL