Beginnings Family Services
Our History
How it all started
In the early 1980s, four visionaries—social workers and theologians—came together with a shared dream. Driven by faith and hope, they took the courageous step to address the lack of resources available for expectant mothers.
As Christians, they felt a strong calling to offer compassionate services to those in need, while adhering to professional standards and legislative guidelines. Their vision was child-centered, starting with support for pregnant women and expanding to encompass fathers, and extended families.
Established and incorporated with charitable status in 1984, Beginnings was granted a license from the Ontario Ministry of Children and Youth Services to deliver essential counselling, fostering, and private adoption services in line with the Child and Family Services Act. By the early 1990s, Beginnings expanded our offerings to include pregnancy counselling in locally supported care centres across three communities— Woodstock, Guelph and Cobourg (Northumberland). Guided by the visionary ideals of our founders and the steadfast commitment of dedicated volunteers, staff, and community partners, these centres focused on empowering expectant parents in crisis while providing compassionate services for parents in need of support.
In 2009, we changed our name from Beginnings Counselling and Adoption Services of Ontario (Inc.) to Beginnings Family Services to reflect the growth and dimension of the work we do. Family is at the centre of our work, supporting lasting connections and helping families thrive is the foundation of our services and programs.
Growth
Our continued growth is a testament to the unwavering commitment, passion, and dedication of previous leadership and those who have invested in Beginnings. Their tireless efforts have laid a strong foundation that enables us to thrive today. As a result, Beginnings has become the busiest adoption agency in Ontario, effectively supporting expectant parents and adoptive families throughout many regions.
In 2010, Beginnings launched the only open Embryo Program of its kind in Canada, offering people successful in IVF the opportunity to donate their remaining embryos to those struggling with infertility and hoping to become parents. Our Embryo Donor/Recipient Program continues to expand annually and has gained national recognition.
In 2019, we made a pivotal decision to transition our work in care centres to their respective communities. We are thrilled to continue to walk along side Dayspring Pregnancy & Family Support Centre as they offer free pregnancy and parenting programs and services throughout Oxford County making a meaningful impact in their community. For those who have supported our centres, from staff to volunteers, to churches, and organizations, the difference you have made is immeasurable and we are truly grateful.
Over the past four decades, we have remained committed to honoring each individual’s unique journey through programs and services that empower, uplift, and foster lasting connections. While much has changed over the years, including the evolving needs of the families we serve, the heart of our work remains unwavering. At Beginnings, we prioritize informed decision-making and strive to foster connections that unite families. Our logo—a sun rising over the horizon—symbolizes our mission of hope, new beginnings, and transformation.