Petrolia, ON – April 14, 2025 – Lambton County Developmental Services (LCDS) is proud to celebrate 70 years of empowering people with developmental disabilities by hosting events and fundraisers throughout 2025, including a special online 50/50 Raffle fundraiser which launches today. These events not only commemorate LCDS’ remarkable journey since 1955 but also continues its mission of building inclusive communities across Lambton County.
From its humble beginnings as a grassroots initiative by local families, LCDS has grown into a cornerstone of support and advocacy for people with developmental disabilities in our community. Over the past seven decades, LCDS has expanded its services to include residential supports, employment programs, community supports, and family support services—always with a focus on empowerment, inclusion, and opportunity.
“Seventy years ago, a group of determined families came together with a vision of a better future for their loved ones,” said Nick Salaris, LCDS Executive Director of LCDS. “Today, we honour their legacy by continuing to innovate and advocate for the rights and inclusion of people with developmental disabilities in every aspect of community life.”
Special 70th Anniversary events and fundraisers coming up include:
- June 21, 2025 – The Hip Machine: A FREE Tragically Hip Tribute Show in Petrolia
- May 14 – August 27, 2027 – Online 50/50 Raffle
- July 24, 2025 – LCDS Charity Golf Tournament at the Kingswell Glen Golf Club, Petrolia
- August 24, 2025 – Family Fun Day & BBQ
- September 26, 2025 – LCDS & Petrolia Lion’s Fish Fry
- December 6, 2025 – Basement Boss Holiday Murder Mystery
All 70th Anniversary 50/50 Raffle Draw proceeds will support the purchase of accessibility assets – tools, devices, modifications and resources to help people with developmental disabilities in Lambton County navigate and interact within their environment more effectively.
Tickets are available now on the LCDS website, with the draw taking place on August 27, 2025.
Join us in celebrating 70 years of inclusivity, community, and empowerment. Together, we can continue to build a community where everyone belongs – one person at a time.
More information contact:
Diana Forbes
LCDS Communications & Engagement Manager
226-932-7873