About CUPS
Empowering our community through an integrated, holistic approach.
At CUPS, we know that no challenge exists on its own. That’s why we provide integrated, wrap-around support, connecting people to a wide range of services that meet both immediate and long-term needs. By looking at the bigger picture, we help individuals and families gain stability, and independence, and build pathways to long-term well-being.
What is Integrated Care?
As an approach to service delivery, Integrated Care means that clients receiving services at CUPS receive trauma-informed, holistic, and low-barrier access to support. It is rooted in the understanding that our brains are shaped by our experiences, and that through meaningful relationships, skill building, and reducing stressors, we can build capacity and improve well-being. This approach is personalized, adapting to everyone’s unique needs and circumstances, and is embedded into all aspects of our service delivery.
Collaborative and responsive programs
Participants have multiple, complex needs that often cannot be fully addressed by a single program, service, or service provider. To respond effectively, we have developed intentional, evidence-based programs and services that work together and complement one another to meet a variety of needs. We deliver services and programming within three main areas: health, family and child development, and basic needs and housing, ensuring comprehensive and responsive support. CUPS prides itself on being attuned to the ever-changing needs of the individuals and communities we support and being nimble and responsive to ensure our programs and services align with the needs of our community.
Our Theory of Change
CUPS’ Theory of Change is unique in that it describes the experience a client can expect when engaging with us. No matter which programs or services they access, or where they begin their journey with CUPS, this shared experience remains at the core. This journey has a destination, but we understand that individuals may need to pause, exit, or re-engage along their journey with CUPS. What remains consistent is CUPS’ approach to empowering and walking alongside clients through this process.
Readiness
Participants have increased capacity of knowledge and skills, connections to community supports, and feel equipped to manage future challenges. They know how to re-access services if needed and appreciate that they no longer “need” CUPS.
Achieve
Participants develop and follow the plan they have created to achieve their goals, identify potential challenges, and create solutions. Along the way, they recognize and celebrate progress, adapt their plan when needed, and celebrate their successes along the way. CUPS works closely with individuals here to ensure they are building skills to continue this work in the future.
Create
Participants understand that achieving their goals is a multi-step process. Through their relationships and work with CUPS staff, they begin to believe their goals are attainable and recognize their own personal strengths and barriers. We support them in identifying important goals for themselves and build the skills needed to do this work.
Empower
It is critical for all the work that follows, that participants feel safe, seen, and heard at CUPS. We do this by building meaningful relationships with our participants, and this is often the first step as they begin to recognize that change is possible and become more aware of the opportunities available to support their journey forward.
Brain Story
At CUPS, we integrate brain science into every part of our work. We understand that early experiences shape brain development and lifelong well-being, so we design impactful and responsive programs to nurture lifelong stability. In collaboration with Alberta Family Wellness and Harvard’s Center on the Developing Child, every CUPS staff member is Brain Story Certified, ensuring our team is equipped to provide trauma-informed, research-driven care.
“When I first came to CUPS, I was broken, I was beat. I was financially bankrupt, spiritually bankrupt; I was looking for a way out and looking for support. I didn’t want to give up — they gave me so much hope, so many options, so many referrals. The support from CUPS has been amazing.”
CUPS Client
Our Strategic Plan
Our Strategic Plan is guided by our statement of purpose: Navigate Complexities. Create Change. Together. At CUPS, we believe real change happens when we move forward with intention, purpose, and a clear ambition. Our five-year strategic plan is more than an innovative roadmap, it’s a commitment to deepening our impact, collaborating with our community partners and ensuring those we support have the resources, opportunities, and support to empower lasting change.
Donate
Your support fuels integrated, evidence-based care that transforms lives. By giving today, you help individuals and families access the resources they need to build healthier, more stable futures.
Get involved
Join us in building better systems and a stronger community! Whether you volunteer, work with us, complete a practicum, take a tour, or contribute through research, there are many ways to get involved.