The amalgamation was directed by the Health Services Restructuring Commission and was intended to consolidate the clinical services, research, education and policy development of the four organizations in order to improve access to services for people suffering from mental illness and substance use problems. The Donwood site, although not formally celebrating an anniversary year, has 33 years of history to be recognized. Anniversaries are a time for reflection on past achievements, but also a time for looking ahead to the future. Organizations that survive are not the ones that remain static but are the ones that are able to evolve with the times and expand their reach.
History unveils how the founding partners have been shaped by events and people over time.
Today CAMH is the largest mental health and addiction facility in Canada. It started with a few extra-ordinary, enlightened people who persevered and transformed their visions into reality. But rarely do just a few individuals create a legacy. The strength and reputations of organizations typically derive from all those who work and thrive within. Perhaps the more difficult question is what not to include in such a book.