Wood's Homes is celebrating the 100-year legacy of its Bowness Campus and making preparations for another century to come. Over the last 100 years, Wood's Homes has evolved from a small orphanage to a leading mental health organization, serving more than 20,000 at-risk children, young people, and families annually at multiple locations across Calgary and six other municipalities in Alberta.
A Century of Service
“This year marks 100 years since Wood’s Homes established roots in this amazing community — a century of walking alongside children, young people and families through some of life’s most challenging moments,” said Wood’s Homes CEO Bjorn Johansson.
Originally called Wood’s Christian Home, the orphanage was founded by Reverend George Wood after the unexpected death of his wife in 1914. After Wood, his daughter Anne, and his mother moved to Innisfail, a soldier asked Wood to care for his two children when he went to war. Wood began to take in other orphaned children or those whose families were struggling. In need of more space, the home relocated to an acreage in Olds, where Wood married social worker Annie, known as “Mother Wood.” The home soon outgrew that location, and in 1926, George, Annie, and 32 children moved to what is now the Bowness Campus.
Evolution and Commitment
“Over the last 100 years, much has changed. The needs of children and families have evolved, our services have grown, and our understanding of mental health, trauma, and recovery has advanced and changed how we do our work,” Johansson said. “But one thing remains constant: our commitment to helping young people and families thrive and heal.”
Wood’s Homes marked the centennial with an event bringing together community members, alumni, government, and community partners, whom Johansson said the milestone would not have been possible without. The event celebrated both the legacy and future growth, including a $46-million capital campaign to update and expand facilities and services.
Future Growth
“The need for mental health and family support services continues to grow, and Wood’s Homes is committed to being part of the future of care in our province, continuing to innovate, to evolve, and to respond to the needs of children, young people, and their families for generations to come,” Johansson said.
Earlier Thursday, the province announced a $4-million contribution to the project. Children and Family Services Minister Searle Turton said the funding would support expansion and modernization of the Bowness Campus. “This includes upgrading existing buildings to create a more modern space for youth, including those who need higher levels of care, and replacing older buildings with new and purpose-built facilities that better support safety, treatment, and daily living,” he said.
