History of Creative Community Living Services
In 1973, four men (Jon Nelson, Jim Esmeier, John Hunt and Joe Bissen) pioneered the concept for Creative Community Living Services, Inc. (CCLS). These four shared an innovative vision that people with disabilities deserved to live in the community – not in institutions. From that vision, CCLS (originally known as Christian Community Living Systems) was created to provide community-based living arrangements for people with disabilities.
CCLS was officially incorporated on October 3, 1973. Shortly thereafter, the first CCLS program opened when eight young women who had spent their lives in a state institution moved into a large house on Madison's east side. Today, CCLS serves consumers in more than 20 counties, providing highly individualized programs that range from one-to-one assistance in individual homes to all forms of personalized living arrangements in adult family homes and community based residential facilities. In addition, day services, recreational programs, nursing supports, case management and community vocational are services available.
Through the years, CCLS has experienced many changes. The company expanded and changed in many ways including corporate structure, geography, and scope of services. Today, CCLS is a non-stock Wisconsin corporation, which means that CCLS owns itself and all profit goes back into the company.
Throughout all of the growth and changes, CCLS has remained dedicated to its mission and to the vision of its founders. CCLS is one of the largest, most diverse service providers for people with special needs in the State of Wisconsin
As CCLS enters the age of statewide Family Care, it is at the helm of providing the most innovative, diverse services in at least ten of the planned consortiums with the desire and ability to provide services to all.
CCLS - Mission - Vision - Philosophy
Our Mission:
The Mission of Creative Community Living Services, Inc. is to establish and provide individualized community supports. These supports will preserve and enhance the dignity and rights of those who must rely on others as they seek their own level of independence.
Our Vision:
CCLS is the premier provider of creative and innovative services reflecting the highest standards of excellence and integrity.
Our Philosophy:
- We believe that every person is a valuable human being, and therefore must be treated with respect and dignity.
- We believe that there is dignity in risk, and that risks must be taken to grow beyond the safety of preconceived limitations.
- We believe that all people deserve to live in and be a part of the community.
- We believe that the physical environment of a community program reflects the dignity and worth of the individuals who live and work there, and therefore must be well maintained.
- We believe that all people deserve the right to choose, guide, and / or direct the way they live.
- We believe that all services must operate from a solid financial base, and we will negotiate contracts that will provide adequate funding.
