Calgary Quest Children’s Society (CQCS) is a non-profit organization that was created in 1980 by a group of caring parents of students with challenges. These parents formed a non-profit society and wrote a philosophy for Quest School that continues to this day. In 1995, Calgary Quest School (CQS) was accredited by Alberta Education as a Designated Special Education Private School (DSEPS). At CQS, the focus is on the ability within disability. Our team of teachers, therapists, instructional assistants, and support staff create a caring and safe environment which respects each student’s ability and supports them in reaching their potential. Today more than 20% of the student population is either First Nations, Metis, or Inuit (FNMI representation is 12.3%) or a visible minority as our focus is on building an inclusive environment for all students.

Today CQCS is expanding service offerings based on input from parents, staff and community partners during the strategic planning process in late 2018. The Society recently launched a community access program, the Calgary Quest Resources Centre for Opportunity, which will provide participants ages 18 to 25 diagnosed with moderate to severe developmental disabilities the chance to maximize their potential by providing a holistic approach to the development of life skills, including the enhancement of self-reliance at home and in the community, health and wellness and self-development, as well as offering programs specific to the development of employment skills, supporting long term community integration and inspiring a dedication to volunteerism.

CQCS will be launching its Quest Adventure Camp and Before and After Care Program beginning in late June. These additional services are all focused on supporting parents and families to provide more opportunities for children and youth ages 6 to 19. The Society is working tirelessly to provide more opportunities to maximize the potential of children and youth with moderate to severe disabilities.