Our History
Onward has provided affordable housing to Calgarians for five decades. Learn about our journey.
Current
In 2022, Horizon Housing and Forward Housing merged to create Onward (renamed in 2023), one of the largest and fastest-growing not-for-profit affordable housing providers in Calgary. But the story of this newly formed organization began several decades earlier…
1970s
Onward was created through the merger of Horizon Housing and Forward Housing, both of which trace origins back to the 1970s.
In the case of Forward Housing, the Roman Catholic Diocese of Calgary Association for Senior Citizens (RCDCASC) was established and registered as a non-profit entity in May 1976.
Horizon Housing originated through leaders of Calgary Region’s Canadian Mental Health Association creating Hari Housing Society and a model housing individuals with mental health challenges together with people having special needs such as physical disabilities. The objective was to reduce the stigma attached to any single group and promote acceptance and integration into the broader community.
1980s & 1990s
In 1984, Hari Housing Society was renamed Horizon Housing Society and in 1995, the Province of Alberta designated RCDCASC as the housing management body over several properties.
By 1999, the two entities constructed or acquired Crossroads Court, St. Paul’s Villa, Horizon Park, Antonian Court, St. James Court, Francis Klein Centre, Horizon West, Columbus Manor, Carroll Place and Horizon 14.
2000s
Horizon Housing and Forward Housing merged in 2022 to create Onward Home (renamed in 2023), one of the largest and fastest-growing not-for-profit affordable housing providers in Calgary.
In 2005, the RCDCASC changed its name to Bishop O’Byrne Housing for Seniors Association (BOBHSA) and later, in 2020, rebranded as Forward Housing.
Throughout the 2000s, the two housing providers collaborated with a number of organizations, referring partners, donors and initiatives such as the RESOLVE Campaign, McMan Youth, Family & Community Services, Calgary Homeless Foundation and the Calgary Home Builders Foundation to expand their portfolios with Horizon 8, Bob Ward Residence, Alice Bissett Place, Heritage Gardens, Columbus Place, Horizon View, Triwood, Bishop’s Manor, Horizon Ridge, The Elan, Horizon 12 and Place Cam Helene. In addition to these multi-storey apartment buildings, a number of houses in community added to the diversity of housing options provided.
Today
Onward is positioned well to grow and serve the critical need for affordable housing in the City of Calgary. Join us in advancing our efforts by becoming a member of our team or through donation