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About Us

DeafBlind Ontario Services supports people who are deafblind, as well as those living with a developmental disability who are Deaf, hard of hearing or use non-traditional forms of communication. Specialized services are customized to each person’s unique needs, method of communication, and goals to live their best life.

Our reach extends into remote communities and urban centres across the province with supported living homes and community services.

Our History

In 1989, a group of parents lobbied the provincial government of Ontario as advocates for their children with deafblindness in an attempt to secure funding for community based supported living programs to commence when the children completed their education.

Independent Living Residences for the Deafblind in Ontario (ILRDBO), was born out of this movement; on April 6, 1989 we were incorporated as a not-for-profit organization. Initially there were three homes in York Region with three individuals with congenital deafblindness residing in each.

Toward the end of 2007, ILRDBO changed its name to DeafBlind Ontario Services.

On April 1, 2021, DeafBlind Ontario Services officially amalgamated with Array Services to enhance specialized services for people who are deafblind, as well as those living with a developmental disability who are Deaf, hard of hearing or use non-traditional forms of communication across Ontario.  By coming together as one as DeafBlind Ontario Services, we will be able to increase capacity, serve more people and use resources more effectively.  Our combined expertise in serving those who are deafblind, as well as those living with a developmental disability who are Deaf, hard of hearing or use non-traditional forms of communication is a natural fit.

We’re excited by our future and working better together.

Founding Members:

  • Gerry & Dorothy Brogan
  • Adrienne & Mike Caruso
  • Lynne Faltash
  • Steven Gaylord
  • Carol & William Hurtick
  • Charles Kelliher
  • Connie Southall
  • Dorothy Wilcox
Intervenor assists woman with pouring laundry detergent.
Intervenor sits with the woman she is supporting at a kitchen table, the two interact as the woman writes in a notebook.
Intervenor sits with person supported on a couch, looking at a booklet. Person supported smiles at the camera.

Mission, Vision and Values

Mission

DeafBlind Ontario Services is focused on individuals who are Deaf, hard of hearing, non-verbal and deafblind.  We offer an array of services that support people to live their best lives.

Vision

Enriching lives one touch and sign at a time.

Foundational Principles and Core Values

Foundational Principles: This is our ‘why’ – the deep purpose and inspiration behind everything we do a DeafBlind Ontario Services.

Person-Centered Dedication

At the heart of everything we do, we place the Individual. We allow their voice, choices, and experiences to guide our actions. We are committed to deeply knowing each individual – understanding their history, dreams, strengths, and needs – so that our support is as unique as they are.

Infinite Possibilities

We are driven by an unwavering belief that every person, regardless of their abilities or challenges, possesses ‘Infinite Possibilities’. At it’s core, this belief ensures that our services are not just about meeting needs but about unlocking potential – paving the way for all individuals to live their best lives.

Core Values: This is our ‘how’ – the guide to our day-to-day interactions, decisions, and practices.

Pursuit of Excellence

  • Adhering to high organizational standards and accountability
  • Stepping out of comfort zones with continuous learning and growth
  • Delivering high-quality care while maintaining the dignity of people supported

Accountability in Action

  • Acting with integrity and transparency, learning from mistakes
  • Recognizing the impact of behaviors and committing to improvement 
  • Valuing feedback as a learning and growth opportunity

 Fearless Empowerment

  • Championing autonomy and potential of individuals
  • Boldly removing barriers and advocating for rights and needs 
  • Viewing successes and failures as learning opportunities

Collective Success

  • Fostering a positive, inclusive, and psychologically safe environment
  • Ensuring transparent and consistent communication for meaningful outcomes
  • Empowering employees to thrive through leadership and support

 

 

DeafBlind Ontario Services is a proud member of Deafblind International (open in new tab).

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