Respect - Sharing - Flourishing
The Zénith Academy is a non-profit organization that is also considered a charitable entity. Currently, thirty young adults benefit from our services, not to mention the families of these individuals to whom we offer respite and support. There is no similar organization in the region.
WHO WE ARE
Our center welcomes, free of charge on weekdays, individuals aged 21 and over with intellectual disabilities, with or without pervasive developmental disorders, and with or without physical disabilities. At all times, 12 places are reserved for clients maintaining skills and 8 places for clients with severe or profound intellectual disabilities, with or without multiple disabilities. Therefore, depending on the respective needs of the users, the number of users attending the center daily can vary.
To better understand who we are, read this article (in French) by Patrick Lagacé, columnist for La Presse.
HISTORY
The Zénith Academy was initiated by Maryse Tessier, mother of a young disabled man. Realizing with astonishment the scarce resources available for her son after the age of 21, she worked with courage and determination for over four years with the help of Jean-Guy Pelletier. It was in February 2014 that the Zénith Academy finally opened its doors to about thirty users in fully adapted premises of 5400 sq ft.
Here are some key achievements:
- November 18, 2011: Incorporation of the Zénith Academy.
- April and June 2012: Recognition of the Zénith Academy by both levels of government as a charitable organization that can issue receipts for charity donations.
- March 2013: Recognition of the Zénith Academy as a community organization by the Health Agency of Montérégie-East.
- January 6, 2014: Signing of a lease and beginning of the premises’ setup.
- January 30, 2014: Signing of a service agreement with CSSS Champlain Charles-LeMoyne and Pierre-Boucher, CRDITED, and the Montérégie Rehabilitation Center (see section 3.2 for more details).
- February 2014: Completion of the work and staff hiring.
- February 24, 2014: Official opening of the Zénith Academy's day activity service.
- March 31, 2014: Approval of revised general regulations and election of nine (9) board members by participants at the annual general meeting.
MISSION & VALUES
OUR MISSION
To offer a stimulating and flourishing living environment for people aged 21 and over with intellectual disabilities and/or ASD, with or without physical disabilities.
OUR VISION
To change the lives of disabled adults and their families.
OUR VALUES
Respect – Sharing – Flourishing
