Our Beginning
STEPs on Arthur Foundation (previously Colchester Community Workshops Foundation) was created in May 2000, and its initial Board of Directors consisted of 16 members, including Eleanor Norrie (president), Bob MacKinnon (vice-president), John Rafferty (secretary), Reg Sabean (treasurer), Allan Bruce, Kay Ivany, Gordon Jeffery, Andrea MacAdam, Beth McKay, Jud Pearson, Sheila Rafferty, Scott Scheneider, Karen Yuill, Reverend David MacNaughton, Ruth Pulsifer and Ann Wight.
STEPs on Arthur Foundation was created to generate and receive funds to assist STEPs on Arthur in carrying out its objectives to purchase land and/or premises and equipment for its expanding operations.
Our Goal
“The purpose of life is not to be happy. It is to be useful, to be honorable, to be compassionate, to have it make some difference that you have lived and lived well.”
― Ralph Waldo Emerson
Rotary House
In 2004, the Foundation’s fundraising efforts reached their goal of raising $2 million and providing STEPs on Arthur with a building that would be able to accommodate its operational needs.
The construction of the new building occurred through the summer and fall of 2004. In January 2005, STEPs on Arthur officially opened the doors of Rotary House for staff and clients.
“When we give cheerfully and accept gratefully, everyone is blessed.”
Delaney House
As STEPs on Arthur continued to expand its programs and clientele, the need for more space became evident.
In 2019, the Foundation started a capital campaign with the goal to raise close to $5 million to restore an adjacent building.
Renovations commenced in 2020. Many delays were experienced during the 2 years of construction due to ramifications from the COVID pandemic. The grand opening of the new building, Delaney House, occurred in August 2022.
Our Purpose
STEPs believes that every person has the right to full engagement in their community and it supports people in their own personal plan of participation.
20+
Years of Service
9
Board Members
10+
Volunteers