FACE (Families of Alberta for Conductive Education) is a charitable organization that offers programs for children and young adults with Cerebral Palsy and various neuromotor disorders.
Today, we spoke to Executive Director Kimberly Millis to reveal the background of the initiative established in 1996 and its evolution into a vibrant organization supporting Calgary’s neurodiverse population. She addresses the difficulties encountered by people with intricate neuromotor disorders, the growth of FACE’s programs in recent years, and the organization’s bold “FACE Forward” initiative focused on enhancing capacity and ensuring long-term sustainability. Kimberly additionally describes how community members can participate, whether through raising awareness, volunteering, donating, or linking families to programs that can create a significant impact.
Describe your charity/non-profit/volunteer work in a few sentences.
FACE fills a crucial gap in Calgary’s special needs community by providing specialized support for individuals with moderate to severe neuromotor conditions. While Calgary offers various programs for people with disabilities, FACE’s unique approach using Conductive Education sets it apart. This holistic method combines physical rehabilitation with cognitive learning, empowering participants to achieve greater independence and functional skills.
What problem does it aim to solve?
Many existing programs cannot adequately meet the enhanced needs of individuals with complex neuromotor conditions, especially those with degenerative disorders. FACE’s programs, with our strong emphasis on physical therapy and individualized attention, are invaluable for maintaining and improving participants’ abilities, quality of life, and long-term well-being. By offering tailored support from preschool through adulthood, FACE ensures continuous care and development for a vulnerable population often underserved by traditional programs.
When did you start/join it?
FACE was formed as a grassroots parent-led program in 1996, and Kimberly joined in April 2021.
What made you want to get involved?
Kimberly greatly believed in FACE’s mission, held a deep passion for helping Calgary youth with special needs, and recognized the need for dedicated organizational support during our critical time of transition.
What was the situation like when you started?
Kimberly joined FACE during a pivotal expansion phase, as it launched a full-time Young Adult day program, relocated to a larger facility, and broadened its program scope and operations—from a grassroots charity to today’s dynamic organization—requiring her specialized expertise for a seamless transition.
How has it changed since?
Since Kimberly joined FACE, the organization has expanded program offerings and capacity, outfitted a custom, fully adapted facility with ongoing renovations, grown and trained staff, implemented stronger governance and control systems, launched dynamic donor outreach, and built collaborative ties with Calgary charities and schools serving similar neuromotor cohorts.
What more needs to be done?
With a generous grant from Calgary Foundation, FACE has launched the “FACE Forward” initiative to address two critical and complementary objectives: expanding program capacity to serve the growing number of neurodiverse children and young adults in Calgary and achieving financial self-sufficiency to secure the organization’s long-term sustainability. Our growth strategy will require modest facility upgrades, new equipment, and the hiring of additional staff to expand program offerings while maintaining the quality and individualized attention central to FACE’s approach.
Key to FACE Forward is proactive community outreach. Long under-marketed in Calgary’s special needs community, FACE is now launching a targeted marketing campaign to ensure every neurodiverse family knows about our Conductive Education programs: boosting enrollment to both serve more families in need and support financial stability, while raising donor awareness for sustained growth.
How can our readers help?
Readers can help FACE thrive by following us on social media, sharing our story with families facing neuromotor challenges, donating, volunteering, or making introductions to potential partner organizations. Most critically, spreading the word—via personal networks or community connections—boosts our profile, enrollment, and long-term success.
Do you have any events coming up?
Marking FACE’s 30th anniversary serving Calgary’s neurodiverse community, exciting events are ahead—stay tuned! This summer’s inclusive Summer Funday Carnival doubles as an open house for families to tour our facility and discover our Conductive Education programs, while our annual fully accessible Winter Market in early December celebrates our impact and raises vital funds. Open houses will follow renovations—visit anytime to learn more!
Where can we follow you?
Website | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | YouTube
PAY IT FORWARD: What is an awesome local charity that you love?
Kimberly would like to highlight the Calgary Family Therapy Centre, who offer free counseling for families in Calgary with a belief that no family should be denied therapy because of cost.
