Our Story
From one family's beginnings in Ariss to a network of 10 locations, respite services and community programs, Hopewell has continued to grow alongside the people and families it supports. What began as a commitment to children with disabilities has evolved into lifelong support for adults, youth and children across Guelph-Wellington.
Hover or tap each colour to meet the four pillars of our community.
Our Icon
Four pillars. One community.
Our icon is more than just a mark. Each shape and colour is one of the four groups of people who make a full life possible. Drawn together, they form one Hopewell.
Together, we make a community.
Since 1983
A family-founded beginning
Hopewell's story began in 1983, when the Oosterhuis family established an organization to support children living with disabilities in their community. From its beginnings in Ariss, Hopewell grew in response to the changing needs of the people and families it supported.
Over time, Hopewell expanded beyond children's residential services to provide supported living, respite and community-based programs for adults, youth and children living with developmental disabilities.
We create spaces where choice, belonging and joy are at the heart of each day.
Growing with our community
Growing alongside people and families
By the late 1990s, Hopewell was asked to expand its services to adults. With government support, a new home was created in Ariss for people moving out of large institutions as Ontario shifted toward community-based services.
Today Hopewell operates 10 locations and continues to develop programs that respond to changing needs across the stages of life.
A milestone in our story
A new name to reflect who we are today
Hopewell Children’s Homes Hopewell Support Services
In 2024, Hopewell Children’s Homes became Hopewell Support Services. The new name reflected Hopewell’s evolution into a lifelong support partner. Still here for children, and now walking alongside youth and adults through every stage of life.
Same people. Same values. Same Hopewell. A name that finally says who we support.
Our legacy
Four decades of belonging. Building what comes next.
Today, Hopewell carries forward more than four decades of community trust and experience. Our history is grounded in relationships, respect and the belief that every person deserves the opportunity to experience a full and fulfilling life, while our focus remains firmly on the people, families and communities we support today and into the future.
What our values look like in practice
Hear how our values come to life
Hear from a Hopewell Program Manager about what outstanding service means and how our values come to life in the support, relationships and everyday moments that matter most.
What it looks like today
Four decades later, our purpose is still lived every day.
Homes, programs, camps and community: the everyday moments that four decades of building made possible.
Our history
Four decades of belonging
From one farmhouse in Ariss to locations across the Guelph-Wellington region, a look back at the moments that shaped Hopewell.
- 1983
It all began with John and Joanne Oosterhuis, who set out to support families in their community, especially those raising a child with a disability. They bought a large farmhouse in Ariss, Ontario and welcomed their first four foster children. As word of their care spread, referrals poured in, and Hopewell Children's Homes was born.
- 1984
Earned licensing as an official group home, a first step toward something much bigger.
- 1990
Officially became a registered charity, opening the door to community support and growth.
- 2023
Celebrated 40 years of care, belonging, and community. Four decades and counting.
- 2024
Became Hopewell Support Services, a new name reflecting our support for people of all ages, not just children.
- 2025
Opened our newest respite location, creating even more space for families to find rest and relief.
- 2026
Opened our newest home and welcomed the people who now live there, bringing us to 10 service locations across the Guelph-Wellington region.
Help shape what comes next.
Your support helps Hopewell create more opportunities for choice, belonging and connection across Guelph-Wellington.