August 1956:
A Gift of Land: Building a Home for Inclusion –
A defining moment in the history of Inclusion Chilliwack Society came when the Carter Family generously gifted four acres of land on Sunshine Drive to the organization. This generous donation provided a permanent home for many of the Society’s programs and services, and helped establish a lasting presence in the heart of the community.
Over the years, the Sunshine Drive property became a central hub for Inclusion Chilliwack Society’s work—supporting individuals with developmental disabilities and their families through a wide range of inclusive services. It also became home to the beloved Sunshine Community Garden, a vibrant space where individuals, families, and community members came together to grow food, build connections, and nurture a sense of belonging.
The Carter Family’s gift was more than a donation—it was a powerful act of belief in the mission of inclusion and community living. Today, the Sunshine Drive site remains a symbol of generosity, growth, and the enduring impact of community support.
In 2024, ICS was proud to co-present a powerful and thought-provoking exhibition at the Chilliwack Museum titled Our Journey for Inclusion: 70 Years of Innovation. Here is a video snippet of the tour, presented by Sarah Belley of the Chilliwack Museum and Archives: