The 25-Year History of COTS, 1982-2007

In the fall of 2007, as COTS embarked on its 25th year, we delved into the rich history of COTS, exploring board documents, service records, and boxes of papers and photos. Our goal was to compile a written record of how COTS came to be, and how this community rallied to respond so positively to the crisis of homelessness.

Our research led us to one simple truth: that the history of COTS is really the story of who we are as a community. Community members from all walks of life came together to make COTS happen, contributing their time, expertise and financial support toward the as-yet-elusive goal of eliminating homelessness.

In March 2008, we published a 16-page narrative of this story, The Story of COTS: 25 Years of Courage, Compassion & Community," which can be downloaded here. Once again, this was a project made possible by community members from all walks of life who contributed their time, talents and financial support to make it happen.

Author Stephen Kiernan contributed the initial writing, Lisa Cadieux of Liquid Studio created the publication's inviting look, Susan Teare provided the excellent photography, Paw Print & Mail donated a portion of the printing costs, and our 25th Year sponsors-- lead sponsor Citizens Bank , with Eley Financial Management, Merchants Bank, and Seventh Generation -- underwrote this and other 25th-Year events.

In the best world, of course, there would be no need for an organization like COTS today, and COTS would have disbanded years ago. But the crisis of homelessness has not gone away, and indeed as the cost of housing and other basic needs continues to soar, the need is greater today than ever.

As Rita Markley states in her introductory comments, "The heart of this organization has maintained its fundamental commitment to humanity and the belief that everyone deserves a home. We carry forward our founders’ abiding faith in a better world and their unwavering belief in the dignity and the infinite promise of every human life."