Association for Community Living-Manitoba Inc.
Association pour l'Integration Communautaire-Manitoba Inc.

The Association for Community Living-Manitoba Inc. (ACLMB), operating as Community Living Manitoba, is a Canadian nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing the rights, inclusion, and community participation of individuals with intellectual disabilities in Manitoba. Registered under the business number 130493364RR0001, the organization forms part of a national network advocating for inclusive policies and services.

History

Community Living Manitoba traces its origins to the 1950s when the Manitoba branch of the Canadian Association for Mentally Retarded (CAMR, now Community Living Canada) was established. Initially named the Association for Retarded Children (ARC), the organization pioneered educational advocacy, leading to the 1966 milestone where Manitobans with intellectual disabilities secured the right to attend public schools[1].

In 1980, two coalitions—Winnipeg Coalition of Residential Service Providers and Manitoba Coalition of Residential Service Providers—merged to create a unified provincial body focused on community-based residential and support services[1]. Over subsequent decades, the organization evolved into a family-led movement, partnering with over 100 local agencies to promote deinstitutionalization and community integration[1][3].

Mission and Activities

Community Living Manitoba operates under the principle of full inclusion, advocating for individuals with intellectual disabilities to access education, employment, housing, and social opportunities without barriers[3]. Key initiatives include:

• Policy Advocacy: Collaborating with provincial and federal governments to influence legislation and funding models.
• Local Branch Support: A network of 11 local branches provides direct services such as residential support, employment training, and independent living programs[3].
• Public Awareness: Campaigns to address stigma and promote understanding of intellectual disabilities.

Governance and Structure

The organization is governed by a board of directors comprising self-advocates, family members, and community representatives[3]. It functions as a grassroots movement, emphasizing partnerships with agencies like Inclusion Canada and Inclusion International to advance human rights globally[3].

Impact and Legacy

Community Living Manitoba has played a pivotal role in transitioning individuals from institutional care to community-based living, particularly through initiatives like the Supported Independent Living Program (modeled by affiliates such as ACL Beausejour in the 1980s)[4]. The organization continues to address emerging challenges, including equitable access to healthcare and lifelong learning[3].

Note: This article synthesizes publicly available data and does not represent an official endorsement by the organization.

[1] https://www.abilitiesmanitoba.org/about-us/history [2] https://www.aclmb.ca/about-us/ [3] https://www.aclmb.ca [4] https://aclbb.com/about-us/ [5] https://manitobaseniorcommunities.ca/OurHistory