Welcome to Extend-A-Family!
At Hamilton & District Extend-A-Family, our goal is to provide a space in which everyone belongs. We believe that each individual, regardless of gender, ethnicity, or ability, deserves the right to respect and friendship, and our team is committed to growing connections around those in our community who are neurodivergent.
At Extend-A-Family, we believe that it “takes a village”, and each family, volunteer, board member and staff member commits to this ideal. We are a community! Together, we strive to provide a safe and inclusive space, foster connection, build relationships and allow opportunities for each of us to contribute.
We believe that each individual, given the proper support and opportunity, has the ability to shine. Through recreation and education programs, we are dedicated to providing these opportunities to our community. Our dedicated staff, generous donors, committed volunteers and incredible families all come together to prove that, through the strength of community, each of us can thrive.
“I raised 3 of my grandchildren. My grandson had significant problems. They were so helpful in providing the extra support and social outings that helped me to raise all three.”
Our Vision and Mission
Vision: All children with neurodivergencies and developmental delays will be accepted, supported, and integrated into their community.
Mission: As a non-profit community service, Extend-A-Family responds to the multiple and unique challenges of neurodivergent children and their families by providing respite, social opportunities and friendships.
Extend-A-Family’s Core Values
Every child with a neurodivergency and/or developmental delay should be socially integrated into the community.
Every child with a neurodivergency and/or developmental delay should be accepted and respected.
Every child with a neurodivergency and/or developmental delay should be recognized as a unique individual.
Families of children with a neurodivergency and/or developmental delay are entitled to support to assist with the increased demands that they face.
Our services have value to the community and the need for our services will be ongoing.
We can make a difference in the lives of our members.
Staff
Our staff consist of specially trained, dedicated and compassionate individuals.
Our Board of Directors
Our Board of Directors, with vision and commitment, continue to steer Extend-A-Family through their governance.
The History of Extend-a-family
Hamilton and District Extend-A-Family: Providing 40 years of friendship, recreation and respite!
Our Policies & Procedures
Hamilton & District Extend-A-Family has a zero tolerance policy regarding any act that knowingly and willingly denies diverse individuals access to opportunities and positive outcomes with our organization.
Discover our Programs
Hamilton and District Extend-A-Family offers many programs that serve the neurodivergent community.
How To Get Involved
Are you a compassionate, caring individual who has time to share a friendship with a neurodivergent child? Are you the guardian of a child looking for support or to get your child involved in fun and exciting opportunities?
Learn about Donating
Although we receive funding from the Ministry of Children Community and Social Services, we must raise additional funds to make up the shortfall. If you would like to see Hamilton & District Extend-A-Family continue to serve neurodivergent children and teens in this area as it has for 40 years, please give generously.
We provide receipts for donations of $20.00 or more.