NOCLS was registered as a non-profit Society April 30, 1984.  The Society was established due to de-institutionalization.  The non-profit Society was formed to meet needs of Vernon citizens who were to be re-established in the community.  The goal was and continues to be an innovative leader in the care and development of mentally and physically challenged individuals to enable them to achieve their highest potential.

NOCLS operates three homes, three semi-independent apartments and a Day Center.  Four individuals live in each home, two in each apartment and all are located throughout the Vernon area. The homes are staffed by caregivers 365 days a year. As well, NOCLS operates a day center.  The TEAM Center is located at 2400-46 Avenue, and provides specialized training and recreational activities.

NOCLS continuously struggles to maintain its identity.  Governments change, policies change, bureaucrats move on, staff change, yet those who receive our services change very little.  We must continually challenge the status quo, communicate needs, and educate the shared vision that is so imperative in the everyday lives of people with disabilities.

NOCLS’ values consist of being a person rather than a disability.  By striving for that goal, the individuals we support will be treated with dignity and respect.  By knowing the needs of individuals, we can move on to community participation in every capacity.  This can be achieved through supports or individually and may occur anytime