A New Name
From 1972 until 2010, we operated under the name Hope Centre Inc. In June 2010, we began using our new name - EPIC OPPORTUNITIES.
The Beginning
The Christian Reformed Churches of Winnipeg founded Hope Centre in 1972 to provide ministry and outreach to people living in the north end of Winnipeg. The first programs included Sunday School for children and Bible Studies for women.
The original location on Alfred Avenue was torn down in 1981. Using grant money from the City of Winnipeg, a new location was built at 240 Powers Street.
Establishing Services
In 1976, a needs assessment showed that more programs and an informal church structure were needed for people with an intellectual disability. The Christian Reformed Church called in a pastoral team from their Home Missions Program. The first service was held at Hope Centre Church in September of 1977.
Day Services
In 1981, the board of directors worked with the Province of Manitoba to develop our first day service for adults. It was located in the basement of Aberdeen Mennonite Church until construction at 240 Powers was completed. Services are now offered at four locations in Winnipeg. Each location offers:
- Self-Development and Life Long Learning
- Connecting and Contributing in the Community
- Career Exploration
Living In Community
In 1987, Hope Centre began supporting four people to live in a house of their own. By 2010, people were being supported in more than 40 locations in Winnipeg. A unique aspect of our service history is that we generally have fewer than four people living in one home. This has enabled us to provide quality person centred supports in warm home environments. Our services expanded to include Independent Living in 1991 and Connections in 1995
Restructuring
By 1983, the organization had grown so much that it was necessary to re-structure into Hope Centre Health Care, Hope Centre Ministries and Hope Centre Inc. (now Epic Opportunities). We share a common history and enjoy friendly relationships with these organizations, but we operate independently.