CARS – Etana Timeline

Meaning of Etana

The name Etana is of Hebrew origin and it means dedication, strength, and “strength of purpose”.

Stakeholders of CARS are dedicated to the individuals and families. Many individuals, staff, and board members have honoured the agency by being with us for many years. Our culture of caring and family; and our mission and vision is strong! “Enriching lives” describes our strength of purpose, coming together to enrich each other’s lives every day! The heart symbol in our logo symbolizes the warm and caring people at the agency. The individuals we serve are at the “heart of all we do”.

2020

Changed our official name to Etana Supports Society, rebranded as Etana

2019

Moved to current office location at 130, 2810 Bremner Ave.

2017

Celebrated the 40th Anniversary of Central Alberta Residence Society (CARS). A large celebration and banquet included individuals, family members, employees and dignitaries including local MLA’s, representatives from Disability Services and the City of Red Deer.

2015

Implementation of the Individual Support Teams. This flexible support model demonstrates unique ways of supporting individuals to live more independently but with access to support when needed.

2012

Purchased a new accessible van thanks to donations from the local ACT/UCT organization.

2011

Built brand new accessible home in Woodlea named “Chad’s Place” as a legacy to Chad Danielson.

2007

Participated in our first CARF Accreditations Survey, receiving a three year Accreditation and have remained accredited ever since.

2002

Purchased and renovated a home in Grandview named “Doreen’s Place” as a legacy to donations made by Doreen Befus.

2001

Development of a Self-Advocate group, the first within the region.

1997

Amended our name to Central Alberta Residence Society.

1990 - 1991

Developed the community options program as a result of decreased / eliminated vocational options due to funding cuts. We provided individuals access to community via volunteer recreational to prevent individuals from being isolated.

1988

Took over community-based services that Michener Center had been operating. With a new funding model, Individualized Residential Support was developed. At the same time, we developed the Adult Placement (proprietor / respite) program for adults.

1987 - 2012

From involvement with the “Fun in the Sun” program, we identified a need and developed the ‘Host Family program which was later renamed to “Family Support Program”.

1986 - 1988

Operated a summer day program called “Fun in the Sun” for children with Disabilities.

1986

Wells & West Park opened 2 spaces in each home for individuals that required additional supports to transition to community living.

1983 - 1984

Apartment Training Program launched. This was a bridge in service between a 24 hour residence and the ILS / ICS program. This program discontinued in 1991, people within went on to other services.

1980

Two additional residences (Children’s / Young Adults & Seniors), as well as a four-plex, were added. The ILS / ICS caseloads put in place. 

1977

Community members & government representatives join together to develop Central Alberta Community Residence Society (CARS). The Society was incorported on June 8, 1977.
Wells / Westpark project (first two homes) turned over to Central Alberta Community Residence Society for operation.