From good intentions to documented practice
Accreditation did not change what the Edmonton Mentor Network could do. They already did great work, but it changed what the team could point to when asked how they do it.
The Edmonton Mentor Network serves youth,primarily Indigenous, many of whom have experienced some form of trauma, and thus, their work is trauma informed by design to meet these kiddos where they are at. Accreditation gave the Edmonton Mentor Network a structured way to confirm where they had strong practices, tighten up areas that were lacking and build safety into their policies.
Milestone 1: Decision to pursue accreditation
Funder requirements brings the Edmonton Mentor Netwwork to CAC. They thouroughly researched other accrediting bodies but found CAC to be more suited to their needs. Their motivation to providing care at the highest standard for the young people in their care and programs helped them stay the course.
Milestone 2: Relationship with a CAC coordinator is established
A CAC coordinator reached out and began to guide us through the self-study process from day one. The coordinator also provided access to the standards and documents we needed at this assessment just so we could clearly understand the full process.
Milestone 3: Our self- assesment is complete
We begin to review our policies, practices , and safety protocols against CAC standards.
Milestone 4: Time for our on-site review
Independent reviewers visit our organization, look through our documents and policies, and flag areas that require strengthening. They provided some time for us to respond to their findings (30 days). This was enough tim e to make needed changes and adjust where needed.
Milestone 5: Accreditation designation received
Now we are formally accredited. This is a well deserved decision as a lot of hard work was put into ensuring our policies meet the highest acceptes standard in Canada.
Where they are now
- Staff are better equipped with clear, actionable policies
- Youth safety practices have been prioritized and strengthened
- An ongoing coordinator relationship that extends well past the accreditation review itself
- Increased credibility with funders and the community
Our support coordinator has continued to check in on us to see how we are doing long after our designation. The support from CAC doesn't stop once you're accredited, even when the issue has nothing to do with accreditationJoshua oluwaleye, CEO, Edmonton mentor network