About Taking Strides
Taking Strides is a charity based in Canada, with locations in Calgary, Edmonton, and Vancouver. Our mission is to promote inclusivity and provide opportunities for children with disabilities to engage in physical activities and lead an active lifestyle. We are dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of these children and their families. Our team is committed to creating safe and supportive environments where children can thrive.
Our History
2016
Taking Strides was born
Taking Strides had its humble beginning in February of 2016, when the initial “Dryland” program was created by several 2nd-year undergraduate students from the University of Calgary. Shortly after, several other programs were started by Taking Strides Calgary including Aquatics, Adaptive Climbing, Rhythm & Strength and Teen Program.
2017
Expansion
In October 2017, Taking Strides expanded its roots to Edmonton where a group of University of Alberta undergraduate students established Taking Strides Edmonton. Starting with their Adaptive Sport Program and later expanding to include Aquatics and Adaptive Climbing.
2018
Incorporation
The Taking Strides program was incorporated by the Societies Act of Alberta as a non-profit corporation in 2018, now known as the Taking Strides Children’s Foundation.
2019-2020
Pandemic, Charitable Organization Status
Throughout the pandemic, Taking Strides Children’s Foundation ran virtual, one-on-one programs commenced via Zoom. We also developed follow-along video guided physical literacy sessions for our community, and became a registered Charitable Organization with the CRA.
2022-2023
Return to session, expansion to Vancouver
Following the pandemic, we rebuilt our executive team to be stronger than ever and resumed 5 different program sessions. In January 2023, Taking Strides Vancouver was launched by a group of amazing students at UBC.
Ongoing
Development
Taking Strides Children’s Foundation continues to develop and improve programming, increase accessibility, and foster a supportive community for participants, volunteers and executives of all abilities.
Our Mission
We believe that every child deserves the opportunity to participate in physical activities, regardless of their abilities. Taking Strides runs active living programs for children with disabilities, providing them with the chance to develop their physical skills and social connections. Our programs are designed to be inclusive and adaptive, ensuring that all children can participate to the best of their abilities.
Our Vision
At Taking Strides, we envision a world where all children have the opportunity to lead active and fulfilling lives. We strive to promote inclusivity and inspire positive change in the disability community. Our goal is to create a future where children with disabilities have access to the same opportunities as their peers, and where differences are celebrated and embraced.