We welcomed Lance Clark, Aspire Child Development Centre Board Chair. Aspire has grown from supporting 36 students in 1985 to providing services and support for over 2000 students and families in 2025. It is a charitable organization dedicated to supporting children with diverse needs and their families.  Using a unique multidisciplinary approach they simplify the coordination of services for families  by bringing together professionals under one roof.

Funding for programs is made possible with a a mix of community and public support with 11% from parent fees, 15% from fundraising efforts and 74% from government and contract funding.  

Three core programs offer a wide range of services to support children and families.

ACTS (Assessment, consultation, and training services) provide multi-disciplinary assessments, guidance and training to help children, families, and educators support every child's growth and success.  EASE (Early access to supportive education) is a specialized pre-school for children diagnosed with a developmental delay or disability.  60 families can be supported in this September-June program.  SFS (School and family services) provide consultation and assessment services across central Alberta in homes and schools.  Over 30 schools are involved in this program for students ranging from 2-18 years. 

Other programs include Triple P Parenting, providing parenting tips to support children's  behavior and emotional supports, and the Park It summer program.  The Park It program offers free inclusive family oriented playground activities around central Alberta.  During 2025, 463 parents and children participated.  

Aspire has outgrown its current facility and capacity is limited.  A 1 year wait list exists for programming The facility, located downtown, lacks outdoor play spaces, has very crowded classroom spaces and limited privacy and poor accessible access.  Efforts have begun to determine future plans but this requires large financial commitments and partnerships.  

Many members commented upon their very positive experiences with Aspire and expressed their support.