Our History

Growing alongside communities for over four decades.

Founded in 1983 by William John Stelmaschuk, WJS Canada, now Taproot, began with a mission to provide adaptable, culturally responsive support across Canada.

Starting with services in adult corrections and youth justice, we soon expanded to meet the growing needs of communities, including disability programs, youth services, and family support.

In 2008, WJS Canada transitioned to an employee-owned model, empowering our staff to shape the organization’s future. We continued to grow, acquiring Spirit of Our Youth Homes in 2012 and earning B Corp certification in 2018 for our commitment to sustainable, people-centred practices.

In 2025, WJS Canada rebranded as Taproot Community Support Services, aligning our name with our purpose and values. Today, we serve communities throughout over 70 locations in British Columbia, Alberta, and Ontario, and we are dedicated to making a positive impact through compassionate, high-quality support.

Taproot History Timeline

WJS Canada is founded, inspired by a vision to provide personalized, culturally responsive care across Canada.
1983
Officially incorporates, taking on its first contracts in adult corrections and youth justice in British Columbia.
1984
Establishes the Northern Youth Center in Kenora, Ontario.
1986
Expands to disability services in Alberta, beginning in Two Hills, and forms a national Senior Management Team.
1987
Broadens its services to include Youth Services, Family Support, and Behaviour Outreach programs.
1988-1989
Launches Aboriginal Drug & Alcohol and Spirituality programs in the Pacific Region Federal Corrections.
Early 1990s
Establishes the WJS Training Institute to consolidate and elevate its training initiatives.
Early 1996
Founder Bill Stelmaschuk steps down; Peter Farnden becomes CEO, guiding the organization’s growth.
2002
Launches the first Acquired Brain Injury Program in Edmonton, Alberta.
2004
A management buyout signifies a new era of employee ownership, as Bill Stelmaschuk retires.
2008
Acquires Spirit of Our Youth Homes in Edmonton, expanding care for Indigenous youth.
2012
Peter Farnden retires; Caroline Bonesky takes on the role of CEO.
2016
Achieves B Corp certification, recognizing a commitment to inclusive and sustainable business practices.
2018
Welcomes Mike Fotheringham as CEO, initiating a new chapter of growth and innovation. This year also marks WJS Canada's 40th anniversary, a celebration of four decades of nurturing change and healing in communities across Canada.
2023
Rebrands to Taproot Community Support Services to better align with its purpose and reflect its true identity at heart.
2025
Taproot Community Support Services, including Spirit of Our Youth, employs around 700 staff across over 70 locations, with a commitment to community support and excellence guiding ongoing impact.
Present

WJS Canada is now Taproot Community Support Services.​

Same committed people and services with a fresh name and rebrand.​