Who We Are
Durham Children’s Aid Society has been supporting families and protecting children in our community since 1905. We are responsible for providing child protection services to children and youth under the age of 18, and their families, who live in Durham Region.
We work with families and our community partners to help children grow up safe, healthy and happy. In most instances, we are able to keep children safe in their family home by working with parents to address any challenges they may be facing.
Our Vision: Families receive the support and resources needed to thrive in their cultures and communities.
Our Mission: Durham Children’s Aid Society works collaboratively with families, community members and service providers to overcome barriers to safe and healthy development of children and youth.
We are governed by a volunteer Board of Directors, and our Executive Director, Steve Woodman, is responsible for the operation of the Society.
We are mandated by, and receive funding from the Ontario Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services for the following services:
- Investigating allegations of child abuse and neglect
- Supporting families to help them keep children safe in their home
- Protecting children and youth when they are at risk of harm
- Supporting the needs of children and youth in our care
- Providing adoption services
- Providing information on past adoptions
For more information please read about our services or about how you can get involved as a volunteer, foster parent or Society member.
Striving for excellence: Strategic Plan, 2021-2025
In 2021-2022, we underwent an extensive community consultation in reviewing our services and practices to ensure that we are responsive to our community’s needs. In September 2021, we launched our Strategic Plan for 2021-2025. Our vision, mission and declarative statements were updated. The resulting strategic plan identifies priorities and directions that will guide us in delivering high quality services in response to evolving community needs.
Throughout our website you will find extensive information on our services and how you can get involved. Please contact us if you would like to learn more.
Your legal rights and feedback review process
If you or a family member are involved with a children’s aid society in Ontario, here is some information about your legal rights and available resources: English French
Durham CAS strives to provide the highest quality service to families and children. If you have concerns about our services, we want to work together with you to resolve them. Discuss your concern with your worker or his/her supervisor. If you are not satisfied following discussion with your worker and their supervisor, then you can file a formal complaint. Please submit your concerns in writing to your worker or their supervisor.
Additional information is available from the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services. There are two pamphlets that outline your options:
- Do you want a review a decision you have received from an Ontario Children’s Aid Society or licensee? French
- Do you have a complaint about services you have sought or received from an Ontario Children’s Aid Society? French