Our Story
Rooted in Community. Driven by Hope. Built on Possibility.
The story of the Centre of Dreams and Hopes (CDH) began long before its official incorporation in 2006. It began with a group of parents, a shared vision, and a determination to create a more inclusive future for their children.
Our Beginnings: 1999
In March 1999, a social worker from a local CLSC brought together parents of neurodivergent children in Montreal’s East End. Through these conversations, families quickly recognized a significant gap in accessible English-language services and specialized support for their children.
Rather than waiting for change, these parents decided to create it.
In May 1999, they established the East Foundation, a grassroots initiative built on determination, collaboration, and the belief that every individual deserves opportunities to learn, connect, and thrive.
With no formal funding, the founding families pooled their resources and rented space beneath a church, where they began offering music therapy. As the demand for services grew, one parent made space available in their daycare facility, allowing the Foundation to expand its weekend programming to include speech and occupational therapy.
Growing Together: 2001–2005
By 2001, families identified a growing need for inclusive summer camp opportunities. In response, the East Foundation collaborated in establishing an integrated camp program at Collège Marie-Victorin, creating opportunities for children with diverse abilities to participate in meaningful recreational experiences.
As the community continued to grow, so did the Foundation’s programs and partnerships.
In 2004, the organization expanded its services and joined the Leonardo da Vinci Centre’s summer camp, further strengthening its commitment to accessible recreation, social connection, and inclusion.
A New Chapter: 2006–2009
In 2006, the Centre of Dreams and Hopes was officially born and incorporated as a non-profit organization.
What began as a small, parent-led initiative had evolved into a growing community organization with a vision of providing comprehensive, inclusive services to individuals and families.
Through the generosity of funders, community partners, and dedicated supporters, CDH reached a significant milestone in 2009: opening its first dedicated building.
This new space allowed CDH to expand its impact through respite services for families, adult education in collaboration with the English Montreal School Board (EMSB), social outings, and other therapeutic, recreational, and community-based programs.
Expanding Our Impact: 2021–Present
In 2021, CDH reached another important milestone with the opening of its second building, creating new opportunities to respond to the evolving needs of the community.
This expansion supported the development and growth of CDH’s mental health department, alternative adult education program, respite services, and additional programs designed to promote well-being, independence, personal development, and community participation.
Today, CDH continues to evolve while remaining deeply connected to the values that inspired its founding: compassion, collaboration, advocacy, and the belief that everyone deserves a place to belong.
Our Commitment Today
Based in Tiohtià:ke/Montreal, the Centre of Dreams and Hopes is a community-driven non-profit organization dedicated to empowering individuals of diverse abilities and supporting their families through inclusive programs, therapeutic services, education, and meaningful social experiences.
We believe inclusion is more than providing access. It is about creating opportunities, amplifying voices, celebrating individuality, and challenging the barriers that prevent people from fully participating in their communities.
From a small group of parents gathered around a shared concern to a growing organization serving its community, our journey is a testament to what can happen when people come together with purpose.
Our story began with parents who dared to envision something better. Today, we continue building on that dream—creating spaces where every individual is valued, every voice matters, and everyone has the opportunity to thrive.