About us

Independence Begins With Being Seen, Heard and Respected.

Medak Independent Living Services grew from a mother’s love, lived experience and belief that every person deserves the chance to build a meaningful life with greater choice, confidence and independence.

Lilah smiling at a celebration in a floral dress
Lilah—the inspiration at the heart of Medak.

Our Story

Medak was inspired by founder Christina Savoie’s daughter, Lilah, who has Down syndrome, and Christina’s desire to help people like her learn, grow and move toward greater independence with meaningful support. We believe support should recognize the whole person—their personality, strengths, interests, relationships, culture, goals and hopes for the future. Every individual deserves dignity, meaningful choice and the opportunity to participate in their community in ways that matter to them.

Our Mission

To provide respectful, person-centred support that strengthens everyday skills, confidence, community connection and individual choice while helping people work toward greater independence.

Our Vision

A community where people of different abilities are valued, included and supported to pursue meaningful lives with greater choice, opportunity and independence.

Our Values

Dignity

Every person deserves to be treated with respect.

Choice

Individuals should have a meaningful voice in decisions affecting their lives.

Independence

Support should build capability and confidence wherever possible.

Inclusion

Everyone deserves opportunities to participate and belong.

Respect

We honour individual preferences, identities, boundaries and goals.

Growth

Progress is personal, and every meaningful step matters.

Connection

Healthy relationships and community belonging are important parts of a meaningful life.

What Medak Means in Practice

We do not believe in a one-size-fits-all model. We aim to work alongside individuals rather than doing everything for them. Support should adapt as skills, confidence, circumstances and goals change.

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