About

Diverse Abilities NS (DANS) is a voluntary, non-profit association established to raise awareness and educate the public on the needs of persons with disabilities. Collectively, DANS provides a wide array of services and support to more than 600 individuals; including residential services, supported employment, day programs, independent living support, respite services, education and social programs, and outreach support.

DANS adheres to a person-directed, trauma informed, and human rights-based approach to all services we provide. This is assured.

Our teams are educated and specialized experts in the sector and rely on the latest evidence and best practices. We invest in opportunities and encourage our employees to gain education and knowledge which contributes to a high standard of support and service. We also have the resources to co-design and implement solutions that allow the people we serve to live the best lives possible.

What does being a DANS member mean?

Being part of DANS means standing together as:

Advocates: We give voice to the rights and needs of persons with disabilities, ensuring their perspectives guide the solutions that shape their lives.
Innovators: For many years, our members have developed creative and evidence-based supports that have improved lives – from closing the first institution in Nova Scotia, housing models and employment programs to community-based services that promote independence and dignity.
Collaborators: We actively contribute our knowledge and expertise at provincial tables and committees, working alongside government, partners, and families to influence policy and practice.
Champions of Change: Most importantly, we are champions of change. We are committed to building communities where people with varying abilities can live good lives – safely, with dignity, and with real choice.

The DANS membership is made up of the following organizations, representing every region across the province of Nova Scotia:

Zone 1 – Western

The Meadows Community, Bridgetown
https://www.mountainsandmeadows.ca/

Balsam Care, Bridgewater
https://www.balsamcare.ca

CORE Support Services, Waterville
http://www.krrc.ns.ca

Zone 2 – Northern

Riverview Home Corporation, Stellarton
http://riverviewhome.ca/

Sunset Community, Pugwash
http://thesunsetcommunity.ca/

Zone 3 – Eastern

Breton Ability, Sydney
https://bretonability.ca

Zone 4 – Central

Quest, Halifax
http://www.questsociety.ca/