Message from Cindy Xavier, CVCDA Executive Director…
As you might recall from our May CVCDA Circle eNews, we had a very busy spring! We are enjoying the community and tourist reactions to our new Global Roots Mural Mosaic. It has been a fantastic addition to our agency.
What was going on behind the scenes during this time was the CVCDA was undergoing our three-year accreditation with CARF (Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities). “CARF is required by British Columbia’s Ministry of Children and Family Development (MCFD) and Community Living British Columbia (CLBC) for both contracted community living agencies and child, youth, and family services.”
For the general public, being CARF Accredited may not have much meaning. For agencies like the CVCDA it is an important, comprehensive evaluation of our organization’s policies, practice and services where we are evaluated against international standards developed by industry experts. Our agency undertakes a rigorous review against a set of standards established by CARF which are designed to promote quality assurance, credibility and accountability, evidence based outcomes and continuous service improvement. An agency who is CARF Accredited has fully demonstrated a commitment to providing the highest level of care and services their clients.
During the CVCDA CARF Accreditation process the team of three CARF Accreditors reviewed over sixteen hundred policies, standards, procedures and documents during a three day period. Our Board of Directors, Program Leads and Team Members across all programs are involved. It is a busy time!
Why should families care about CARF Accreditation? It shows that an agency has established excellence in the provision of services, meeting the strict regulations and standards required by CARF; and is continually working to improve services. To achieve CARF Accreditation an agency must demonstrate a focus on person-centred care (family centered) where services are designed to meet the unique needs and goals of each child and family in a respectful, supportive environment.
Safety and accountability are paramount to the accreditation process with proven risk management standards which ensure the safety and well being of employees and clients. All CARF Accredited agencies are required to employ qualified, trained staff who are committed to delivering quality services which are collaborative and prioritize family empowerment.
I am very pleased to share that CVCDA has once again achieved our three-year CARF Accreditation! Families who receive services through the CVCDA have the knowledge and peace of mind knowing the agency and professionals they are receiving services from have met the standards for the highest quality of care. Our ultimate goal at the Comox Valley Child Development Association is to provide every child and their family with services that meet their individual needs.
And now, onto our upcoming September AGM!
Congratulations Cindy, on receiving a three year accreditation from CARF. This is testimony to the good work that you, and your team do on a daily basis. I appreciate the opportunity to conduct this survey with you, and the team and commend your learning spirit. Wish you all the very best, as you continue working with persons in most need.