Our Mission
We enrich and celebrate the lives of infants, children and youth with disabilities to help abilities grow by providing child-focused, family-centred care.
Our Vision
As a provider of innovative services to children with disabilities, we are a centre of hope, support and inspiration, working together toward a future of empowerment, participation, and opportunity.
Our Values
Our values guide the work of the Centre:
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Collaboration
We believe that children live in relationships with their families, their communities and society. We are committed to collaboration with the people and organizations who provide support to the children we serve.
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Honesty
We believe that the best decisions and actions are taken with transparency and accountability. We are committed to honesty and openness in our work and in our interactions with others.
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Leadership
We believe that as practitioners, and as an organization, we play an important role in leading for change. We are committed to using our expertise to help build a better world for the children and families we serve.
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Innovation
We believe that our children and families deserve to have access to the best ideas and services. We are committed to seeking out new and better tools and techniques, and methods of engagement with our children, families and the community.
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Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
We believe that our work is made better when we listen to, include, and meet those who need our services where they are and remove barriers to participation. We are committed to being an equitable and just organization.
Honouring John McGivney
In Memory of Our Founding Father, September 27, 1922 – May 8, 2014
A Life of Service
John McGivney devoted nearly 60 years to making life better for children and families in Windsor-Essex. Humble, compassionate, and community-minded, he championed the rights of children with disabilities and helped transform local care.
His Journey
- Born: Manhattan, New York (1922)
- Education: Law degree from the University of Toronto
- Military Service: WWII pilot and flight navigator with the Royal Canadian Air Force
- Career: Corporate lawyer at Chrysler Canada (now FCA)
McGivney moved to Windsor in 1955, quickly immersing himself in community service through the Rotary Club of Windsor (1918).
Champion for Children
Appalled by the lack of support for children with disabilities, McGivney led the charge to build a new rehabilitation facility. As chair of the Rotary planning committee, he inspired donors and helped open the Children’s Rehabilitation Centre of Essex County in 1978.
He remained deeply involved—visiting families, improving services, and leading efforts for the Centre’s major expansion in 2010.
In recognition of his decades of service, the Centre was renamed the John McGivney Children’s Centre in 2006.
Legacy of Leadership
McGivney’s impact went far beyond the Centre:
- Rotary Club of Windsor (1918): Member (1955–2014), past president
- University of Windsor: Board of Governors (1975–1984), Clark Award (1994)
- United Way Windsor-Essex: Campaign Chair (1960s)
- Other Service: Windsor Chamber of Commerce, Windsor Police Commission, Princess Anne School, St. Mark’s by the Lake Anglican Church
In 2012, he was honoured with the Governor General’s Outstanding Canadian Award for his lifetime of service.
Our History
A Dream Takes Shape
A group of dedicated parents and community members advocate for local pediatric rehabilitation services in Windsor-Essex.
1970s
JMCC is Born
The Rotary Club of Windsor steps in to support the cause and the concept of a children’s treatment centre begins to take shape.
1977
A Place to Call Home
A purpose-built facility opens on Matchette Road to serve children and youth with physical, neurological and developmental needs.
1980s
A Growing Need
The Centre expands therapy and support services to meet growing community needs.
1990s
Community Connections
JMCC strengthens its partnerships with local school boards and hospitals to support children and families where they live, learn and play.
2000s
Leading the Way
JMCC becomes a recognized leader in pediatric rehabilitation, family engagement and advocacy.
2010s
A New Name
The Centre is renamed the John McGivney Children’s Centre to honour long-time advocate and champion for children, John McGivney.
2012
Preschool Integration
JMCC becomes a demonstration site for an integrated preschool education and therapy program in partnership with the City of Windsor and Children First.
2014
Navigating the Pandemic
The Centre adapts services to continue supporting families safely through COVID-19.
2020
Empowering Every Ability
JMCC continues to grow, innovate and partner to create an inclusive and supportive environment for all children and youth.