Our History 1968-1975

1968

As students graduated school they needed employment opportunities so they started the greenhouse and garden known as Sunrise Ranch. This gave rise to more vocational services and supports.
First Executive Director of the LACL, Len Wright, was hired. In 1973, he moved to Edmonton to take on the responsibilities of the Executive Director of the Alberta Association.
The first Auction was held at the Lethbridge Exhibition Park. Families raised $1475.
The Lethbridge Association coordinates transportation for family visits to and from Michener Center.

1969

Oliver House I is opened as a children’s residence. This was helpful to families who lived outside of Lethbridge. Their children could attend Dorothy Gooder during the week and the return home to be with their families on the weekends.
First Greenhouse built at Sunrise Ranch to serve adults who needed vocational services.
As students graduated from Dorothy Gooder School, parents allowed themselves to move onto the next step and allowed Lethbridge School District #51 take over the running of the Dorothy Gooder School.

1970

1971

1973

Com-Serv concept promoted for comprehensive Community Based Service System with families running services and fundraising.
Malcolm Jeffreys was Executive Director of LACL.

1974

Lethbridge became the first Experimental and Demonstrated Com-Serv Project in Canada for the next five years.
Bricks and mortar services are turned over to agencies. LACL (LAMR) continues monitoring, advocacy and advocacy and advisory role.
LAMR turned over operation of all facilities to Com-Serv Board.
LAMR now able to concentrate on support programs for people with developmental disabilities.
LAMR developing monitoring and advisory task forces to safeguard the quality of services provided.
The Parent to Parent Support group began.
Family and volunteer training and development was extensive as informed connected families proved to be the most effective advocates.

1975

Presidents