Community Living Association – Lanark County quietly celebrates six decades of supporting people with intellectual disabilities.
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This May, Community Living Association – Lanark County (CLA) quietly marks a major milestone: 60 years of walking alongside people with intellectual disabilities. Instead of a major celebration, CLA is embracing what matters most—being present, building relationships and finding meaning in the everyday.
“For us, Community Living Month isn’t about balloons or banners,” says CLA CEO Robert Eves. “It’s about honouring the relationships that define us and continuing the work of inclusion, one day at a time.”
Founded by local families in 1965, Community Living began as an act of advocacy—a call for a better life for their children with disabilities. Sixty years later, that same spirit endures. Families remain at the heart of the movement, working alongside staff and community partners to build a future grounded in equity, belonging and voice.
As CLA turns 60, it renews its promise: to stand with families and advocate for a developmental services sector that sees the full worth of every person and supports them to thrive.
Inclusion isn’t a program—it’s a way of being, shown daily through meaningful connections, purposeful support and shared successes. It’s seen in the lives of the people CLA supports as they work toward personal goals, build careers and pursue passions with confidence and purpose.
- Heather H., supported by CLA to follow her love of horses, has progressed from barn chores to therapeutic riding and training foals. She now dreams of owning a horse of her own. “I love my time at the barn,” she writes. “Horses have added a deep love to my whole being.”
- In downtown Carleton Place, Foundry Books & Novelties is redefining what a bookstore can be. Operated by people supported by CLA, the social enterprise offers employment, skill-building and a sense of purpose through meaningful work. One of its best-known ambassadors is Peterh, whose weekly video series, Peterh’s Pick, introduces customers to gently used books—promoting literacy, creativity and community connection.
- Chris, supported by CLA in his career journey, recently marked 29 years of employment at Canadian Tire in Carleton Place—a testament to the power of long-term job support and the value of meaningful work.
The people behind the promise
CLA’s staff are at the heart of this work. They support dreams, build relationships and help people live with dignity and pride. Whether helping someone move into their first apartment, organizing an inclusive event or simply showing up on a hard day, their care and commitment shine.
“Our staff find meaning in small, everyday moments,” says Amanda Matheson, CLA’s chief administrative officer. “That’s where real inclusion lives—in genuine, respectful human connection.”
As a member of the Lanark Community Alliance, CLA congratulates Carebridge Community Support on its 50th anniversary. For five decades, Carebridge has been a vital force in the community—creating opportunities for connection, care, housing and inclusion. CLA is proud to work alongside Carebridge and others to help build a stronger, more inclusive Lanark County.
After six decades, one thing remains clear: inclusion isn’t a trend or a one-time achievement. It’s a promise renewed each day—in homes, workplaces, barns, bookstores and quiet moments.
“This month, and every month, we stand with the people we support and their families,” says Eves. “We’ll keep building together. We’re just getting started.”
Community Living Association – Lanark County is a charity supporting individuals with intellectual disabilities to enable and assist them to live a quality life in their community with dignity and respect.
