2024 Top-Rated Nonprofit

CHAMPLAIN COMMUNITY SERVICES INC

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Nonprofit Overview

Causes: Centers to Support the Independence of Specific Populations, Human Services

Mission: Champlain Community Services provides essential supports to people with intellectual disabilities and autism, building a community where everyone participates and everyone belongs.

Community Stories

69 Stories from Volunteers, Donors & Supporters

peggyday Client Served

Rating: 5

01/13/2025

My son has received FANTASTIC help and support in obtaining and maintaining part time employment - CCS folks are AMAZING, kind, thoughtful, supportive, knowledgeable, and REALLLLY great at what they do!

Previous Stories

Board Member

Rating: 5

10/12/2021

CCS has the most caring, dedicated staff EVER. Always willing to go above and beyond for others. Even though we can't pay them even close to how much they are worth!

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elizabethl General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

06/26/2024

CCS is a wonderful organization with amazing opportunities for the population it serves! Just wonderful!

arilagattolla General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

06/26/2024

I have several family members who utilize CCS . The amount of opportunities they have available for self advocacy, recreation , and the different conferences and luncheons are amazing. I can also see from how kind and friendly that the direct support professionals are that this is a program that truly cares about the population it serves.

mtalasko General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

06/26/2024

I am happy to say I have been able to attend some CCS events! Such dedication and commitment was shared. The support was very strong. Thank you CCS-VT

mariastam General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

06/26/2024

Wonderful staff! Staff dedication is outstanding!!

puzzleking Client Served

Rating: 5

06/25/2024

My name is John. CCS helps me everyday. I like being independent and CCS listens to me. CCS is a nice place.

Benniboy Client Served

Rating: 5

06/25/2024

I like CCS and have fun bowling, swimming, have friends and go on field trips.

I like CCS, Ben

lastamat Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

06/25/2024

I cannot express my profound thanks for the thoughtful caring and support CCS-VT has shown my adult family members. Although we are new to CCS - VT my Son and Daughter have transformed into vibrant, confident, and independent individuals who have grown so much. Thanks to the staff who have created an environment and dedicated themselves to fostering ALL individuals the ability to SHINE!!

It is beautiful to watch - Thank You CCS-VT

billybrock Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

06/25/2024

Great place, great people! Staff are very dedicated,personable, and professional.

I would HIGHLY recommend CCS-VT if you, family or community member are in need of supportive services. This agency is TOPS!

mdstar Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

06/25/2024

CCS is not just a place of work, it is a family! Wonderful place to make you feel like you can make a difference for the community in the best way!

divamarissa Client Served

Rating: 5

06/25/2024

I want to rate CCS with 99 stars because they teach me alot of things and i have fun every day.

CCS helps me learn how to cook and I am writing my own cookbook!

CCS is right up my alley. CCS is awesome.
Diva (aka marissa)

jkevinkremer Donor

Rating: 5

06/24/2024

I was introduced to Champlain Community Services just over a year ago and have been continually impressed with the opportunities they provide those with intellectual challenges. Individuals are treated with dignity and presented opportunities to engage in and investigate many unique experiences. CCS is a fantastic organization committed to providing good in this world.

sdeboute Board Member

Rating: 5

11/27/2023

Not only is Champlain Community Services a great place to work, it's a wonderful community to be a part of. They treat their employees, their clients, and their board members like family.

Saranoff General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/31/2023

CCS offers exceptional services for high school students and adults with disabilities around the greater Burlington Vermont area. I know their jobs program is highly regarded and I've met some of the students where I volunteer. Great organization and part of United Way I believe.

liz117 General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/26/2023

Having first hand experience attending various CCS events, I only wish my brother (who lives in PA) had an opportunity like the one for which the CCS's clients benefit. The respectful manner and professional approach to services are special and genuine assets. Thanks for including the WHOLE community!

NtyGrty General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/21/2023

My wife and I have been to a few CCs events over the years and have always been impressed with the friendliness and professionalism of the Staff.
The family feel towards the people with intellectual disabilities is amazing.
We are so lucky to have folks who are so dedicated.

JoshPalace Donor

Rating: 5

09/15/2023

I have worked with Beth and the wonderful staff setting up a special event. In addition, my company always donates to this very worthy cause. Helping people with disabilities, such as autism, and helping them live productive lives is extremly benificial for all. Most important, the people. Whenever I am asked to help, promote or donate, I do my best.

BKuster General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

08/02/2023

We've had the privilege of collaborating with CCS on various initiatives, including educational events and workforce development efforts. CCS is a vital asset to the families and individuals they serve, as well as the broader community. They have been a great partner to us, providing invaluable feedback to enhance the accessibility and impact of our services.

The genuine passion the CCS team has for their work and clients is evident in every interaction. We are excited to continue our joint efforts to further uplift and serve Vermonters.

Jdix Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

07/19/2023

While working in this field, Champlain Community Services (CCS) is one of the best if not the best agency. Their commitment to their clients as well as to their employees is like no other. Highly recommend working with, or for, CCS.

skrumholz18 Volunteer

Rating: 5

06/08/2023

I had the fortunate opportunity to work with CCS through a public health project at UVM medical school. Through this experience I was able to see first hand the incredible dedication and passion CSS staff have for their consumers. It was undeniably clear this organization takes great pride in providing the best support for the families and consumers who use their services.

tangierine Volunteer

Rating: 5

06/07/2023

I had the privilege of working with CCS for 6 months as a member of a medical student public health project. During the project, the staff at CCS was extremely helpful in answering questions and allowed us incredible access. They are providing an outstanding service to the community and this was evident from the first day that we started working with them.

JacquelynRose Volunteer

Rating: 5

06/06/2023

CCS offers a plethora of valuable services to those with intellectual disabilities. They are a great organization that truly cares about working to improve the lives of those in need.

hb99 Volunteer

Rating: 5

06/06/2023

This nonprofit is amazing! I worked with them for one semester of school where I volunteered on a public health project. It was such an honor to work with such an incredible organization, committing to serve some of our most vulnerable populations in Vermont. You could never go wrong with supporting this organization. The staff care so deeply about their roles.

cogSLP Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

10/28/2022

As a Speech-Language Pathologist, I am very familiar with the needs of our vulnerable adult population. CCS services are top-notch, and staff is knowledgable and caring. Keep up the good work!

emmidave General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/24/2022

CCS works hard to expand opportunities and rights for people with developmental disabilities. Their jobs programs are especially important.

nosilat93 General Member of the Public

Rating: 4

10/17/2022

This is a great agency helping people with intellectual disabilities find and keep good jobs and connect to community resources. Strong leadership and dedicated team of support workers!

Carecompadre Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

09/30/2022

I have worked with folks with special needs since 1986. CCS ceases to amaze me. They are all in for the individuals they provide care for. A shining example of how good care giving can get.

richamber2003yahoocom Board Member

Rating: 5

09/30/2022

Champlain Community Services has wonderfully committed leadership and staff and are great stewards for the local community. I have the utmost respect for their team.

suemowrer Donor

Rating: 5

09/29/2022

I've been happy to support CCV and attend events that they put on. They are doing very important and empowering work on behalf of Vermonters with intellectual disabilities. I cannot say enough good about this nonprofit!

Odie123 General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

07/26/2022

This past spring, a group of fellow medical students at the University of Vermont Larner College of Medicine and I worked with Mike Reilly and Champlain Community Services to highlight the experiences of individuals who use CCS services experiences' in acute healthcare settings and identify means to improve the experiences of CCS consumers and their direct support professionals in the healthcare environment. Mike and the CCS staff were always so pleasant and helpful in terms of assisting us in fulfilling our project goals while also advocating for the needs of their consumer population throughout the process. It was truly an honor to chat with many consumers and direct support professionals as well.

cevans8 Volunteer

Rating: 5

07/25/2022

Incredibly kind and dedicated people! I worked mostly with Mike Reilly but also a couple direct support staff, and all were very respectful and opened my eyes to what can be accomplished by a local non-profit like CCS.

Tbevs Volunteer

Rating: 5

07/25/2022

CCS goes above and beyond in its commitment to the Vermont community. Not only do they excel in their work within their own institution but, they also work with Larner College Medicine students annually to work on Public Healh projects that affect health care nationally.

asarathy Volunteer

Rating: 5

07/25/2022

I have volunteered with Champlain Community Services for the past year. This organization is led by a team of committed and passionate volunteers who prioritize the needs of the consumers they serve. I have witnessed the incredible work that they do, and I highly recommend that anyone seeking their services to get in touch with them!

davefromthewave Volunteer

Rating: 4

10/17/2021

They are really great in proving support for me both at home and work.

They are a great support for my son which enables him to live on his own, They have great communication with me as a guardian and with him. I know that staff shortage has been challenging for them but they still continue to provide services in a very professional way.
They are like family.

pmh192056 General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/13/2021

I have heard of and seen these dedicated people in action.empathy and compassion are their goalposts

kpdi General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/13/2021

I have a friend who works for Champlain Community Services and am continually impressed by her commitment to the organization and the people they serve. She works tireless hours however she feels fulfilled and grateful the opportunity to be able do such meaningful work. She has been inspired by her colleagues and those they support. We need more Champlain Community Services- type organizations. Thank you for the great work!

ZiggyO16 General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/13/2021

The services provided by Champlain Community Services are invaluable to the community. As a family we are fortunate that we don't require assistance, however we have firsthand seen the level of passion and commitment given (a huge shout out to Pat N). Keep up the good work.

joanvan General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/13/2021

One of your therapist that I know is extremely knowledgeable and helpful . She listens and has well thought out solutions.

intaz General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/13/2021

I have heard about CCS's work in the community from friends. CCS employees serve selflessly, tirelessly, and with good humor. The community is lucky to have CCS's support and recognizes CCS's positive impact on many lives.

bethputeskajones Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 4

10/13/2021

I have spoken with employees of Champlain Community Services and been very impressed with their dedication and the services they provide.

mar5657 General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/13/2021

A neighbor of mine works at CCS. She is one of the hardest working woman I know and she tells me some of the stories of clients who depend on CCS. She works all hours of the day and goes above and beyond to help these individuals live a better and more secure life.
CCS is a very valuable resource for those in VT who need support, I don’t know where they would turn otherwise.

erico General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/13/2021

We support the important work you people do and know first hand how much effort you put into your work.

jnormie General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/13/2021

CCS does an awesome job for their clients in the Burlington Region. A very dedicated staff that goes above and beyond.

32Perchbay General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/12/2021

From what I understand regarding this organization - the personnel and their focus is working for those requiring it. The service providers work hard everyday to help their clients and family. They care!!!!

amywoody General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/12/2021

A woman I know works for Champlain Community Services, and I am continually amazed at her dedication to serve her clients to the best of her ability. Every week she goes above and beyond sometimes for hours past the end of the day. For the clients, she has fears, yes, but also the most sincere determination to help them live their best lives. Knowing how important it is to make a difference, she's glad to have the support of her co-workers, who are equally dedicated. 5 stars!!

MorMor Donor

Rating: 5

10/12/2021

I have spent several wonderful opportunities to support CCS' fund raising events and to interact with staff and many consumers of their services. Each opportunity includes more information about their many innovative programs., (e.g. Way to Work).
Every event reinforces the remarkable cohesiveness of the staff and each feels like a family visit.

Previous Stories

Donor

Rating: 5

07/07/2020

I recently read in the Vermont Business Magazine that for the second consecutive year CCS has been chosen as one of Vermont's 51 Best Places to Work. The designation is given following extensive interviews of all staff members. I think that aptly describes the unique strength of the agency. CCS' mission is a demanding one, requiring the extreme dedication of its staff within the parameters of very modest remuneration. That the staff expresses their pleasure in that sometimes stressful working environment is remarkable. The CCS leadership promotes a committed and compassionate role model for each employee. As a result of this harmonious environment the people they serve receive the greatest possible level of support and guidance. Parents and Caregivers of those who receive services through CCS are likewise comforted by the dedicated and professional care given to their loved ones.
It is difficult to quantify but any visitor is immediately aware of a feeling of family cohesiveness among staff and those whom they support during any visit to its welcoming workplace.
CCS is a remarkably unique agency.

Read more

marycarter13 Board Member

Rating: 5

10/12/2021

One of the most incredible organizations I know. I am constantly impressed by the Executive Director and all the staff members I have met here. They treat one another and the people they serve with respect and loyalty, provide amazing resources to the community and work to advocate with and for a population of folks who need it. Thank you CCS for all you do!

mmekhail General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/23/2020

A great agency: smart, innovative and well-run. They really put the needs of the client first and have also received awards for being a great place to work in the state of Vermont. An outstanding group of dedicated individuals and an invaluable resource for the community.

pwebber Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/11/2020

It has been my pleasure to be a volunteer and supporter of CCS. I’ve been most impressed by the dedication of CCS staff to their clients and client families. I also know that CCS employees, board members and volunteers work diligently—and have over many years—to produce a wide range innovative programs and services. CCS certainly exhibits the mark of an outstanding organization in this field through their ability to tailor their programs and services to individual client situations, as well as to be flexible in our ever-changing world. The people at CCS are amazing and generous—joyfully going the extra mile when the opportunities present themselves.

rosewood General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/11/2020

Champlain Community Services offers unique education and employment opportunities for people with developmental disabilities in a personal and friendly way. I support their mission to build a community where everyone participates & belongs.

kdonivan General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

09/25/2020

We need more agencies like this!! Main goal to help disadvantaged individuals, everyone who works there is an angel!

Keep up the good work!

Liz Moore R. General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

09/24/2020

I've personally witnessed how the organization supports and assists, as appropriate, people with various differences. Great mission, but met so well because of caring people and effective training, too! I have especially loved the summer picnics that they sponsor (and paring with community resources.) The clients and their families have a blast while celebrating the mission and the people.

vsg173 General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

09/24/2020

Champlain Community Services is well known for its employment programs for people with developmental disabilities, and I support programs that help to make sure everyone gets a chance to work. It’s a member agency at our local United Way, and works with businesses and schools throughout Chittenden County (and maybe beyond) to help match people with disabilities to good jobs with good pay and benefits.

pman1p General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

09/24/2020

As a member of the Greater Burlington community, I have attended a number of CCS community and fundraising events. I’ve gotten to know more about the agency’s work to provide important services for Vermonters with disabilities, and I support the CCS mission to make sure our community is welcoming to people of all abilities. CCS also has a reputation as a great place to work.

tinag General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

07/06/2020

I love that this organization treats its employees with the same heaps of love and respect with which it treats its clients. It well deserves its spot on the Best Places to Work in Vermont list.

JDEL Board Member

Rating: 5

05/27/2020

Champlain Community Services is relentless in its mission and is driven by a passionate leadership group and staff. CCS provides important services to the individuals who make up the greater Burlington community and are leaders in the field at a national level. Vermont should be proud to be the home of such a professional and dedicated agency.

dbogdan Board Member

Rating: 5

10/27/2019

Champlain Community Services is a Specialized Service Agency in Vermont providing essential services to people with intellectual disabilities or autism. In addition to providing excellent core services of home, community and work supports, CCS excels at several focused programs.

Way2Work - a program that focuses on partnering with local businesses to show the value of employees with differences and helping with job placement and training.

School2Work - a contractual program with local high schools to prepare students with intellectual disabilities or autism for the workforce and help with job placement and training.

Bridging – a contractual program with local high schools to provide students with intellectual disabilities or autism activities to learn about community and workplace opportunities available after leaving school including arts, entertainment, recreation and jobs.

Homeward – a service matching shared living provider homes with seniors and people with physical disabilities who cannot live alone.

jodiwhalen Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/27/2019

I’ve had the pleasure of volunteering for CCS for a number of years. I’m always impressed by their dedication to the people they serve, and their broader, long-range goals of changing the way society as a whole includes people with disabilities. This is an outstanding agency.

ChamplainServices Board Member

Rating: 5

10/25/2019

Champlain Community Services is a unique agency with dedicated, compassionate and creative staff. Meeting the people involved in CCS, hearing their stories and laughter and watching them support each other through celebrations and challenges confirms the commitment everyone has to the CCS stated mission and vision. CCS contributes to making our community healthier and happier.

Kate Taylor H. General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/24/2019

All the CCS people that I’ve ever met are wonderful—remarkably compassionate, caring, upbeat, resilient and professional. CCS is such a boon to the community, both as a stellar employer, but also as a jewel in Vermont’s crown when it comes to caretaking of vulnerable citizens. Their support and empowerment of those with intellectual disabilities is a joy to witness. Their work to make important changes within the state and nation inspires.

SaRaSa Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

10/22/2019

I cannot speak highly enough about the services CCS provides. Their staff is well trained and attentive to the needs of consumers while taking a team approach to insure all have a voice including guardians and care providers. The size of CCS allows for the perfect mix of professionalism and personal touch larger agencies cannot match.

run4vermont General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/22/2019

CCS is the “Little Engine that could.” It may not have the same level of resources as larger agencies, but the quality of service that it delivers is second to none. The staff of CCS is very committed and compassionate to the clients they serve!

Zoltan S.1 Board Member

Rating: 5

10/18/2019

I have been on the CCS Board of Directors for nearly nine years, president the past three. Over my tenure, I have seen the organization's budget grow from about $3M to over $6M. Since we are not chasing profits, in non-profit terms, what does that mean? Simply, people want to be a part of the CCS ecosystem. As people in need of services migrate to us, we provide spiritually meaningful employment to our staff. It is remarkable: The CCS "secret sauce" (in the making over our 52-year history), is passed from generation to generation. As best we can, we insulate our employees and the people we serve from perennial State funding challenges. We consistently earn high marks from both groups. Personally, I have learned so much about inclusion and the richness folks bring to the table.

PMcDougall Board Member

Rating: 5

10/16/2019

Champlain Community Services is an amazing organization that provides essential services to people with intellectual disabilities and autism. The Way 2 Work program at CCS is a national model for supported employment. Vermont is fortunate to have CCS!

BDague Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

10/13/2019

I've been involved with CCS for about 27 years and have seen them transform their services from a segregated sheltered workshop to a thriving agency providing excellent community-based employment and community-based services. Individuals and families receive exceptional service and benefit from a full life in the community with support as needed. CCS is very innovative and is constantly seeking ways to improve their services. They often serve as a national role model for other agencies.

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