Land Acknowledgement
CAC’s home office is in Edmonton, Alberta, or Amiskwaciwâskahikan in the Nehiyawewin (Cree) language. Amiskwaciwâskahikan (Edmonton) is proudly situated on the traditional territory of Treaty No. 6, which is the ancestral homelands, as well as a gathering place of Indigenous peoples since time immemorial and will continue to be so for generations to come. CAC is also honoured and privileged to work in many other traditional territories with various nations across multiple geographic regions, encompassing traditions throughout Turtle Island.
THE NUMBERS
CAC & Indigenous Communities
of all CAC-accredited programs carry the Indigenous designation
Indigenous Health centres accredited across Canada
Indigenous Treatment Centres accredited across Canada
OUR COMMITMENT
Our commitment to Indigenous communities isn’t a program or policy. It’s built into how we work .
Indigenous Voices at the table
CAC is committed to ensuring Indigenous perspectives shape our work. Indigenous representation is maintained on our Board, and every effort is made to include Indigenous membership across our committees, so that the standards guiding Indigenous programs reflect the communities they serve.
The Indigenous Designation
The Indigenous designation recognizes programs built around Indigenous values, cultural safety, and community, which defines the service delivery model. It’s available to Indigenous-governed organizations that serve Indigenous peoples or are working towards the Enhanced Indigenous or Cultural Safety Standards designation.
Evolving with Communities
We are actively engaged in research toward incorporating Indigenous Ways of Knowing into the 2027 Edition of our standards- a direct reflection of our ongoing commitment to authentic representation
COMMUNITY VOICES
In their own words
"CAC is the only accrediting body that supports the Indigenous community and Indigenous service delivery by having Indigenous program standards."
Donald Langford, Executive Director
Métis Child and Family Services Society, Alberta
WHERE WE SHOW UP
Present in the community
CAC participates in key Indigenous health and wellness conferences — building relationships, listening to communities, and learning from the people our accreditation serves.
YSAC Conference
February 24-27, 2026
Quality Improvement & Safety Network — First Nations Health Authority
February 24-25, 2026
First Nations Health Managers Association Conference
November 3-4, 2025
FOR INDIGENOUS ORGANIZATIONS
Is CAC accreditation right for your organization?
If your organization delivers health, wellness, addictions, child and family, or social services to Indigenous communities, CAC's Indigenous designation may be a meaningful fit.
Our coordinators understand the unique context of Indigenous service delivery. We don't apply a one-size-fits-all process — we work with your organization to understand your community, your values, and your goals.
Start a ConversationWhat to Expect
1
An unhurried conversation
We start by listening to you. You tell us about your organization and what accreditation could mean for your community.
2
A guided self-assessment
We work through the Indigenous standards together, identifying strengths, opportunities, and a realistic timeline that respects your organization's capacity. The goal is integration.
3
Support through every phase
Your coordinator is with you from application through designation and beyond. The relationship doesn't end when the review does.
Resources for You