Network Business Plan Edmonton and area Fetal Alcohol Network Society

Transcription

1 Network Business Plan Edmonton and area Fetal Alcohol Network Society

2 Table of Contents Network Information 3 Network Vision and Priority Areas 5 Network Priorities and Rationale 17 Strength, Weaknesses, Opportunity, and 20 Threats Analysis Environmental Scan 21 Community Needs Assessment 23 Service Delivery Strategies 26 Network Operational Priorities and 39 Strategies Priorities for Additional Funding 40

3 Network Information Edmonton and area Fetal Alcohol Network Society Network Co-Chairs: Denise Plesuk Carol Tabone Executive Board: Network Leadership Team: Bernadene Mallon Dani Curial Laurel Fitzsimonds Balascak, Deneka Baxter, Ashley Danielson, Brittany Dilorenzo, Micheline Driscoll, Lisa Gowers, Corrine Gross, Sue Maxfield, Aimee Meikle, Nadine Reiter, Lori Richardson, Heather Rogozinsky, Lisa Simon, Lisa Sinclair, Toni Skidmore, Jamie St.Germaine, Mark Tabone, Carol Telford, Laura Verbonac, Tracey Wilson, Fay Network Catchment Area The catchment area follows the Edmonton Capital Region boundaries and includes the following municipalities: five cities: Edmonton, Fort Saskatchewan, Leduc, St.Albert, and Spruce Grove; one specialized municipality, Strathcona County, which includes Sherwood Park; three municipal districts: Leduc County, Parkland County, and Sturgeon County; 3

4 ten towns: Beaumont, Bon Accord, Bruderheim, Calmar, Devon, Gibbons, Legal, Morinville, Redwater, and Stony Plain; four villages: Spring Lake, Thorsby, Wabamun, and Warburg; eight summer villages: Betula Beach, Golden Days, Itaska Beach, Kapasiwin, Lakeview, Point Alison, Seba Beach, and Sundance Beach; four Indian Reserves for three First Nations: Alexander 134 of the Alexander First Nation, Stony Plain 135 of the Enoch Cree Nation, and Wabamun 133A and 133B of the Paul First Nation. Fiscal Year (Upcoming) April 1, 2016 March 31, 2017 Business Plan Submission Date: January 15,

5 Network Vison Our Vision A future free of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder. Our Mission Educating and supporting communities. The Edmonton and area Fetal Alcohol Network Society works to enhance the capacity of our community to prevent Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) and support those impacted by an FASD through education, service delivery and advocacy. The origins of EFAN go back to 1998 when the efforts of a number of people came together. At that time no specific services existed for people impacted by an FASD and many agencies were frustrated with their ability to meet the needs of their clients. It become obvious to staff that in order to provide support to their clients they needed to support one another. In any community initiative champions play a central role in taking an idea and making it into something. In Edmonton there were and continue to be several champions. From its inception as the Region 6 Steering Committee to present day, EFAN has been committed to the prevention and awareness of FASD and supporting individuals and families. 3

6 The Society operates according to and is guided by the following values: Collaboration The Society will partner through formal and informal relationships with individuals, families, and communities. Responsiveness The Society, inspired by the needs of the community and guided by best-practice, aims to provide lifelong, strength-based supports and services to individuals and families impacted by FASD. Diversity The Society respects and is inclusive of individual differences and diversity within our communities. Accountability The Society operates with a maximum level of responsibility and transparency for its actions and decisions The Society has five priority areas in educating and supporting communities for a future free of FASD. 1. Supports and Services To provide individuals, families and communities with a range of holistic supports and services that meet their needs across the lifespan. 4. Advocacy To help create a voice for and with people impacted by an FASD. 2. Information and Education To provide access to information and resources while developing and delivering evidence-based education and training opportunities to the community. 5. Research To inform, participate and disseminate research and contribute to the development of bestpractice interventions. 3. Building Relationships To nurture and maintain connections and partnerships with communities, agencies and all levels of government. 4

7 The Network will address FASD and work with the community in the following activities with the noted expected outcomes: Supports and Services Activities: Survey individuals, families and communities to determine current needs and gaps for persons impacted by FASD. Develop and implement a feedback process on client experiences. Continue to offer referral support and links to community services through the Network Coordinator. Continue to provide funding for supports for individuals and caregivers, assessment and diagnostic services and prevention supports. Develop a series of groups for adults impacted by FASD: drop-in group, support group, and lifeskills group. Provide case management consultations when requested. Supports and Services Outcomes: 1. Individuals, families and communities affected by FASD have coordinated access to supports and services that meet their needs. These include access to supports for individuals and caregivers, assessment and diagnosis services and prevention supports. 2. Individuals, families and communities have knowledge of and access community resources. 3. Individuals, families and communities have knowledge about FASD. 4. Individuals, families and communities experience an increase in well-being. 5. Individuals and families experience a decrease level of stress and in increased ability to cope. 6. Interdisciplinary teams collaborate in informed approaches. 7. Clients are satisfied with their program involvement. 8. Supports and services are provided with a lense of understanding of trauma, child development, grief and loss, and gender-based analysis. 5

8 Information and Education Activities: Survey the community to determine education and training needs. Make available a directory of FASD specific supports and services. With community partners develop and deliver targeted education and training sessions to all sectors of the population. Develop curriculum for sessions in trauma, child development, and grief and loss. Develop information and training sessions in gender-based analysis plus. Evaluate effectiveness of training and education opportunities and refine based on results. Host targeted community initiatives/events to raise awareness of FASD information and prevention. Develop information and education resources that can be cross-purposed across media platforms. Develop and maintain a database of resources. Develop and maintain the Society website and social media sites. Information and Education Outcomes: 1. The community has an increased knowledge about the effects of alcohol use in pregnancy. 2. The community has an increased understanding of FASD that includes caring for and supporting individuals with FASD. 3. The community has an increased understanding of trauma, child development, grief and loss, and gender-based analysis. 4. There is a change in attitude/stigma attached to FASD. 5. A full range of resources (electronic and print) is available. 6. Service providers and programs integrate knowledge of FASD into their practices. 7. Service providers have the abilities to provide effective and holistic supports to individuals, families and communities impacted by FASD. 6

9 8. Government and service providers have an increased capacity to identify individuals with FASD, understand the unique needs and deliver and/or refer to appropriate services. Building Relationships Activities: Develop a communication strategy that aims to disseminate information and provide opportunities that facilitate relationship building. This will include an FASD Frontline Newsletter, monthly Society meetings, and continued improvement to website and social media design. Host yearly an interagency resource fair. Participate in and present at key events and conferences. Provide avenues to create new and formalize existing partnerships. Promote FASD awareness and prevention by engaging with all levels of government and the community. Building Realtionships Outcomes: 1. New relationships and partnerships are expanded. 2. Existing relationships and partnerships are strengthened. 3. Mechanisms are in place to facilitate and encourage stakeholder and community engagement. 4. Effective lines of communication with stakeholders and policy makers are in place. 5. The profile of the Network at local, provincial, national and international levels is strong. 6. An increased number of initiatives, programs and service agencies are working to prevent FASD and support individuals and families impacted by FASD. 7

10 Advocacy Activities: Consult with municipal, provincial and federal governments on issues related to FASD. Consult with stakeholders to enable individuals and families impacted by FASD to contribute to Society planning. Establish targeted advisory groups of individuals and families impacted by FASD to inform and guide Society strategies. Develop an advocacy tool for individuals and families impacted by FASD that will empower their communication of needs to government and service agencies. In collaboration with stakeholders develop policy papers on issues related to FASD and the prevention of FASD. Advocacy Outcomes: 1. FASD is recognized as a public health matter that impacts all public sectors and broad policy. 2. FASD is recognized as a community issue that requires a community response. 3. FASD is recognized as a disability that requires specific supports and services that are best practice and evidence based. Research Activities: Apply appropriate evaluation tools to assess effectiveness of Society funded supports and services. Monitor current provincial, national and international resources and information, including research, and distribute broadly via communication channels. Respond where necessary to provincial, national and international resources and information. Provide forums where valid research is presented and the impacts on best practice are discussed. Participate and contribute to research initiatives. 8

11 Research Outcomes: 1. The Network activities are evaluated. 2. Research findings, including those from monitoring and evaluation systems, are used to inform Society strategic planning, services, and programs. 3. Stakeholders and the community have knowledge of and accessto research and leading practice. Planned strategies of continued development within the Network this year and in future years includes: Timeline January April 2016 Plan Gender Based Analysis Plus: - Revise policies and procedures to include oversight role of gender-based analysis plus to Network Coordinator position. - Revise policies and procedures to include the following policy statement in regards to GBA+: Policy Statement The Network is committed to integrating into its governance and management a gender-based analysis plus (GBA+) that informs both its policies and practices. It is essential that gender factors and gender equality issues be recognized and analyzed in order to be mitigated and/or resolved within the work of the Edmonton and area Fetal Alcohol Network Society. To implement a GBA+, the Network commits to: Develop and apply tools to conduct a GBA+. Provide training to Network members and funded service providers in GBA+. Build the capacity of stakeholders to incorporate GBA+ into their services by developing and delivering tools that guide and support their efforts. Develop indicators to assess and monitor progress of GBA+ implementation at Network and service level. Collect and use gender-disaggregated data to inform and guide practices. Evaluate the effectiveness of the gender-based analysis process. - Develop two main tools for training: the first is a PowerPoint presentation on demographics and impact 9

12 within a GBA+ context, the second is to create a full day workshop for frontline staff, including the GBA+ introduction and how GBA+ can be put into practice. - Complete pilot project on the First Steps Program on the application of GBA+. Project will include: STEP 1: Identifying the Issue How are gender/race/class/etc realities similar and different and therefore need to be taken into account during this project? Given these similarities and differences, what would be the main GBA+ dimensions of this project? What assumptions are you making? Who could be left out? Eg. How do Indigenous women experience pregnancy and alcohol use differently than other populations? STEP 2: Defining desired/anticipated outcomes In view of the similarities and differences from STEP 1, what would be reasonable project outcomes? Are there project outcomes that need to be changes/adapted? Are there project outcomes that are missing in order to address differences? STEP 3: Information Gathering What do we need to know to ensure desired/anticipated outcomes? What are the possible sources of qualitative and quantitative data? Identify sources of data through research and consultation. STEP 4: Development and Analysis of Options Taking into account all that you learned from steps 1-3 above, what options do you have for policies, procedures or delivery of the program that will allow you to reach your desired outcomes? What could be the diversity implications on the development or implementation of the options? STEP 5: Knowledge Translation Create a communication plan for disseminating the new policies/procedures/delivery protocol. How will changes affect your clients? How will you inform leaders of various organizations that are a part of the project? How will you inform organizations you report to (CMC, Network meetings, etc)? How will you inform the general population (if necessary)? Are there other groups/individuals that you need to inform? STEP 6: Evaluation and Monitoring Ensure that you have clear indicators for measuring the GBA+ outcomes. Ensure that you have relevant and sensitive methods of gathering data for each indicator. What is the key indicator of project success in terms of GBA+ equality? 10

13 - Ongoing Monitoring of Progress: EFAN will need to determine general outcomes and indicators for those outcomes for the Network. These outcomes and indicators will likely become clear once EFAN has conducted its pilot project and conducts GBA+ on other projects. EFAN conducts bi-annual contract management with all the agencies that it funds. In order to monitor the progress of GBA+ initiatives, EFAN will add the following questions to the contract management process: What are specific examples of the application of GBA+ to initiatives in your organization? Has GBA+ resulted in changes to policy, program, diagnostic services or communications? What measures have been taken to ensure the sustainability of GBA+ in your organization? (Eg. New policies, monitoring, training, etc) Has your organization gathered or generated genderdisaggregated data or undertaken research related to gender? In addition to the bi-annual contract management with agencies, EFAN will put GBA+ as a standing item on all its board meetings. January - March January/August Strategic Planning Session: - Identify future members. - Determine prioritized goals and outcomes of the Network, action plans and methods to access outcomes. - Determine funding priority areas for the succeeding years funding proposal. - Review and determine the activities required to produce the Service Network Program deliverables, including content and timing of the activities. - Review Policies and Procedures, Terms of Reference, Bylaws and any other Network documents and adjust as needed. - Reflect on the Network s past year recognizing strengths and weaknesses. - Review and evaluate progress mid-year. SWOT Analysis, Needs Assessment, Environmental Scan: - The Network will complete an analysis of its strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats experienced during the past year. 11

14 - The Network will perform a needs assessment on services currently being offered and identify service related gaps within the region. - The Network will examine the economic, provincial, cultural, demographic and technological factors that impact the functioning of the Network. September April September Information Management: - The Network will utilize and review its process for information management in data collection, monitoring services and information dissemination. Reporting mechanisms, report content, and information flows will be examined to ensure the communication of program requirements. - Review and revise Network communication plan as required. - Develop and maintain a Network file management system through standardizing changes to improve and modernize current file management systems. Services, Supports, Operations: - Fund previously contracted FASD programs that have fulfilled service level outcomes specified within their Service Level Agreements. - Review and revise funding priorities on an annual basis to be used when additional sources of funding are received. - Review Network strategic documents and adjust funding based on community needs and requirements. - Complete bi-annually the Service Quality and Compliance Review on each funded program to ensure direct service deliverables are met. - Complete yearly the Service Quality Review on Network operational positions (Network Banker and Network Contract Manager) to ensure operational directives are met. - Develop and maintain a succession-planning program to prepare the Network for the future through the development of members for key leadership positions when a vacancy occurs. Annual General Meeting: - Receive and consider minutes of the preceding General Meetings. - Receive and consider the audited financial statement 12

15 signed by the Network accounting administrator of the preceding fiscal year. - Receive and consider reports of the Board and of any committee of the Board. - Elect Officers to the Executive Board. - Transact other business under the Edmonton and area Fetal Alcohol Network Society Bylaws and Societies Act. - Make return to the Registrar containing: Society address, full name/addresses/occupation of each officer and director of the Society and audited financial report. Monthly Monthly General Meetings: In order to safeguard the work of the Network and ensure continued momentum and commitment from the Network membership, monthly General Meetings, the first Tuesday of each month are scheduled. The Standing Monthly Network Agenda includes: Call to order, roll call Approval of last meeting minutes FASD-CMC Update FASD-CMC Councils Update Supports and Services Update Financial Update Membership Review Agency/External Committee Update Supports and Services Meetings: All Network funded service providers are required to attend the monthly Supports and Services Team meetings, the first Tuesday of each month. The meetings serve to assure that the supports and services provided meet the Service Level Agreements of each agency but more importantly provide opportunities to support, encourage and collaborate with one another. The Standing Agenda includes: Call to order, roll call Approval of last meeting minutes FASD-CMC Update Network Operation Review Reporting Review Financial Update Funded Services Update 13

16 In alignment with and support to the Government of Alberta s FASD 10-Year Strategic Plan, FASD Service Network Program Guidelines and Outcomes Based Management Plan, the Network has developed a strategic and operational blueprint of projects and activities for the upcoming and future years that fit within each of the FASD Strategic Pillars. The actions of the Network work towards achieving through measurable outcomes the FASD goals of the Alberta Government, the Network and community. The FASD Strategic Pillars prioritized within this ground plan include: 1. Awareness and Prevention 2. Assessment and Diagnosis 3. Support for Individuals and Caregivers 4. Learning Organization The infrastructure of the Network continues to develop and promote collective considerations and organizational learnings that allow for: continuous monitoring and assessment, the Network to make informed decisions, take appropriate action with respect to programming and operations, and provide effective and relevant reporting to the Network Stakeholders. The Network continues to endorse through specific funding measures current FASD program initiatives. Fundamental to the success of the Network and Service Network agenda is the continued capacity building around services available to those individuals impacted by an FASD. This important component requires advocating for existing and new funding to grow the FASD programs in size and type in order to better provide a well-rounded approach throughout the life span. The Network provides model, life long, culturally-sensitive, seamless service delivery and supports either directly through fund allocations and partnerships and/or indirectly through referrals to other service providers. Changing community needs and capacity are identified bi-annually via strategic documents (SWOT Analysis, Environmental Scan, and Community Needs Assessment), thus evaluating the effectiveness and outcomes of the service programs and highlighting any needed shifts in service delivery. New and existing programs are evaluated through the Network Contract Manager bi-annually to ensure that they are compliant with their Service Level Agreements and that their activities and deliverables continue to meet the needs of the community, those impacted by FASD, the Alberta FASD Service Network Program and the Network. The Network has prioritized the following: 1. Albertans who may be affected by an FASD have access to timely and affordable assessment and diagnostic services. The Network has and will continue to increase the capacity of FASD Clinics to provide affordable and timely access to multidisciplinary diagnoses and assessments across the lifespan to individuals suspected of having a Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder. With direction and assistance through the clinic process, implementation of clinic recommendations and in partnership with Network member agencies, individuals and their families will have an 14

17 understanding of how FASD impacts them and the services available in the catchment area. 2. Individuals suspected or with a Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder and their families have coordinated access to supports and services based on their needs. The Network will provide a variety of support services that include but are not limited to mentorship, support groups, advocacy, crisis management, respite, and education and resources to individuals and families. Organized access through Network member agencies to services assist to reduce the impact and presence of secondary disabilities associated with an FASD, increase client and family understanding of the disorder, and ensure lifelong seamless service provision. 3. Alcohol use during pregnancy is eliminated, preventing the profound personal and societal cost of an FASD. The Network will actively participate in Nancy Poole s Level 1 and 2 Model of Prevention with its work through the FASD Prevention Conversation: A Shared Responsibility. With the efforts of the Prevention Conversation Facilitator, health and social service workers will be provided the tools to screen and intervene for alcohol use in pregnancy appropriately and effectively. Resource and knowledge dissemination will ensure that women of child-bearing age, their partners and communities are aware of the effects of drinking alcohol during pregnancy and the community resources available for those who may be concerned about alcohol consumption during pregnancy. The Network will sustain Level 3 and 4 Prevention efforts through funding Parent- Child Assistance Programs within the catchment area. Culturally sensitive support services for women with alcohol problems and related issues and care for women to develop or maintain healthy changes pre and post pregnancies will support women to have alcohol free pregnancies thus reducing the births of children at risk of having a Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder. 4. The community understands that alcohol use during pregnancy can cause Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder, which can be prevented through abstinence, and has an understanding of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders and the associated issues. Through social media enhancements, website design, resource development, public awareness initiatives, and marketing the Network will increase the understanding, knowledge and capacity of agencies, caregivers and individuals to support persons suspected or with a Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder while systematically promoting attitudes of acceptance and understanding. Active participation with the FASD, The Prevention Conversation, A Shared Responsibility, will increase the knowledge and capacity of service providers to support women and their families to make healthy choices in their pregnancies while increasing community awareness of the effects of alcohol consumption during pregnancy. 15

18 5. Stakeholders collaborate to develop and mobilize knowledge based on research and best practice to continuously transform Alberta s FASD system to achieve outcomes and goals. Sustaining the FASD Service Network Program remains a critical issue for the Network. Maintaining and enhancing the initiative and Society over time requires a combination of non-financial resources from the initiative and broader community. Required internal resources include leadership from the Network, access to technical expertise, and the existence of strong administrative and financial management systems. Building strong internal structures such as fiscal management, bylaws, and governance processes to ensure the Network demonstrates soundness to the FASD Service Network Program and the community requires personnel such as a Network Coordinator, Contract Manager and Banker. A strong infrastructure within the Network and community has allowed the Network to learn from past and present experiences and adapt to the ever changing circumstances and environment. To build upon the existing capacity of the Network to address identified gaps and needs within the community it is essential to expand the visibility of the Network within the broader scope of non-profit and human services agencies with the intention of recruiting new and diverse talent. The engagement of new membership benefits the Network as a whole by developing and strengthening new and existing partnerships and collaborations. A natural outgrowth of the work is the building and supporting of a myriad of different leaders and experts with diverse demographic backgrounds within the field of FASD. Membership of the Network determines the shared goals, priorities, and implementation strategies to achieve them while the strategic focus also determines the partners. This interrelationship continues to assemble effective and cooperative associations. 16

19 Network Priorities and Rationale Business Priority The Network will provide timely and coordinated supports and services based on an integrated lifespan approach which will result in: Individuals suspected or with an FASD experience improvement in their wellbeing. Caregivers of individuals with an FASD experience improvement in their wellbeing. Individuals and caregivers receiving support report satisfaction with the services received. Girls Empowered and Strong (Elizabeth Fry Society) McDaniel Youth Program (Catholic Social Services) Fetal Alcohol Spectrum of Services (Bissell Centre) Open Arms (Unlimited Potential Community Services) FASD Resource Worker (Metis Nation of Alberta) Bridges Program (Leduc County) FASD Respite Program (Kids Kottage/Elves) FAS TRACS (CASA) Rationale Families have historically been the central source of emotional, financial and social support for at-risk children, youth and adults. The rapidly changing role of families combined with external factors such as time constraints and financial pressures have often resulted in severed community and family ties for those impacted by an FASD, as highlighted within the Network Environmental Scan. Due to this trend the Network has prioritized mentorship programs as a means to reconnect those impacted by an FASD with their communities and families while supporting the accomplishment of selfdetermined goals through hands on assistance. The process of mentorship is defined by a sustained, close developmental relationship between a mentor who is more experienced and mentee. Mentorship promotes a strength based approach that supports the mentee to concentrate on positive aspects of their life rather than negative influences. Through continued strategic planning the Network has identified mentorship programs as an essential service required for all individuals impacted by an FASD throughout their lifespan. The necessity of culturally sensitive FASD mentorship services, within the rural catchment area and Edmonton urban center has been highlighted within the Network Needs Assessment. Current programs continue to struggle with the demand for mentorship services as indicated by program specific wait-lists and referrals. 17

20 The Network Needs Assessment continues to identify a shortage of services for families that address the various needs of children impacted by an FASD. Due to the complex developmental/behavioral conditions associated with children impacted by an FASD families often experience elevated levels of stress and parental burnout. In order to maintain and enhance the stability of the family unit there is a primary need to provide an ongoing network of supports, education, and resources. This support results in a better understanding of the child s functioning, strategies for behaviours and adapting home and school environments, while simultaneously connecting with parents to other families living through similar experiences. Prevention initiatives are developed and delivered using a collaborative and cooperative approach that result in the following system and client outcomes: PCAP program are available across Alberta and meet the community needs. Participants know that FASD is caused by alcohol use during pregnancy. Participants develop the intention to eliminate alcohol use during current and future pregnancies. Secondary disabilities experienced by individuals with an FASD are reduced. Subsequent births of children with prenatal exposure to alcohol by women who have used substances while pregnant are reduced. Program participants experience improvement in their wellbeing. Children of program participants The Network Needs Assessment identifies the continued need for culturally sensitive targeted and indicated prevention services within the catchment area. Current P-CAP programs are able to meet the demand from the community for intensive supports that address the needs and issues facing women who are pregnant (or up to six months post-partum) and who are using drugs and alcohol. 18

21 experience improvement in their wellbeing. Program participants report satisfaction with the program and complete the three-year term. First Steps (Catholic Social Services) Albertans have access to timely and affordable multidisciplinary assessment and diagnostic services across the lifespan that result in clients and/or caregivers having an increased understanding of how FASD affects them, the supports and services available to them in the community, and are referred to post assessment supports that meet their needs. FASD Pediatrics Clinical Services (Glenrose Rehabilitation Hospital) FASD Adults Clinic (Glenrose Rehabilitation Hospital) The Network will plan FASD programs and services based on a collaborative approach with mechanisms in place to facilitate stakeholder engagement and information sharing. Access to training, resources, and evaluation results will inform Network activities, supports and services and strategic planning. Network Coordinator (Catholic Social Services) Network Contract Manager (Contract position) Network Banker (Bissell Centre) There continues to be very few centers and teams providing multi-disciplinary FASD assessments for children. Current clinical services for individuals under the age of 18 are unable to accommodate the increasing wait-list demands (currently children may be on a waitlist for up to two years) and are inadequate for smaller municipalities and rural areas as the services are located in the urban center of Edmonton. The Network will continue to fund additional assessment services through the Glenrose Pediatrics FASD Clinic and strengthen collaborations/partnerships with clinic staff to assist and ease the diagnostic process where possible. In response to understanding what the community and Network members most value about the Edmonton and area Fetal Alcohol Network Society and current opportunities and challenges for offering a high quality system of supports and services, the essential role of organizational support positions have been highlighted. To ensure compliance with the FASD Service Network Program Guidelines the Network will continue to employ a Network Coordinator, Network Contract Manager and Network Banker. Collectively these positions will ensure community needs are assessed, supports and services are deepened and expanded, visibility and leadership of and within the Network continues to grow and fiscal responsibility. 19

22 The Network priorities have been identified in consultation with the following Network documents. SWOT: Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats Analysis January 2016 STRENGTHS: Annual evaluation and updating of the governance model and Policies and Procedures that reflect the flexibility, adaptability and needs of the Network. Experienced, resourceful and dedicated Network members. Commitment to the conceptual long-term perspective for the Network versus individual gain. Ownership of the Network belongs to the members. Effective and productive collaborations and partnerships between Network members. Ability to make collective, community based funding decisions. Network provides a forum for coordinating information and services. Capacity and depth of experienced FASD service provision to respond to new opportunities and community needs. Ability of Network agencies to provide high quality, necessary services that meet the needs within the community. Linkages between service provision and theory. Increased cultural relevance within service provision. Open communication pathways within and between the Network, stakeholders and the community. Clear roles and responsibilities for operational positions within the Network. Clear organizational structure for coordinating within the Network and Working Groups. Clear succession plan for Network Co-chairs. Consistent administrative and clerical support. Ability to balance FASD Service Network Program goals with the Network s mission and goals. Community level planning. Ability to utilize technology innovation and adapt to technological changes. Information sharing capacity. Responsiveness to diverse population needs. Information sharing capacity. Community level planning. Fosters beneficial informal partnerships. FASD within the Provincial agenda. WEAKNESSES: Insufficient aboriginal, visible minority and multi-cultural agencies within the Network. Inability to expand existing services and develop new services due to lack of funding increases. Many services are unavailable in rural communities. Improved coordination of public education and awareness activities required. Long program wait-lists. Lack of long-range, sustainable funding agreements to provide multi year service delivery approach. Require a comprehensive approach to technology management but not all agencies support enhancement to current technologies. Lack of services in rural areas 20

23 OPPORTUNITIES: New partnerships/approaches. Evaluate planning, programs and policies. Well positioned to take advantage of growth to coordinate and plan. Advanced information technology available to foster more effective information transfer and human resource activities. Availability of information about best practices and leadership training. Joint staff training and development. Public education. Provincial wide planning. Increased visibility of the Network within the community. Leadership training. Recruiting to fill gaps in EFAN membership. THREATS: Weak provincial economy that limits potential for service growth. Increasing cost in providing supports and services. No budget increases. Restrictive funding directives. PQR process for CFS funded supports may eliminate programs and partners that the Network collaborates with and has enhances with additional funding. Agency capacity to deal with change e.g. provincial agenda, Network and community expectations and FASD Service Network Program Guidelines. Lack of long range planning ability. Questionable sustainability past the 10 year plan. Inconsistencies between funders within the same program. Environmental Scan Factors Impacting Network Priorities January 2016 The following is a brief baseline summary of the economic, provincial, cultural, demographic and technological factors that influence the functioning of the Edmonton and area Fetal Alcohol Network Society. INFLUENCE Economic Influences Provincial Influences FACTORS - Economic downturn. - Unemployment rate increasing. - Reduced job opportunities but increase in population growth continues. - Agencies experiencing staff retention difficulties due to less competitive compensation. - Rising income inequality. - Money for hiring but lack of qualified applicants. - Increased competition between agencies to hire qualified staff - Lack of sustainable, multiyear funding agreements with the province. - Developing social policy. - Lack of increase in provincial grants funds. - Increased complexity in contractual obligations with the province (Service Network Program). 21

24 - Federal and provincial elections changing ideology. Cultural Influences Demographic Influences - Edmonton urban centre experiencing an increase in cultural diversity. - Edmonton attracts a larger share of newcomers relative to other metropolitan centers. - More than 60 ethnic and cultural groups represented in population. - Distribution of population by ethnicity: European (31%), British Isles (28%), North American (11%), East/Southeast Asian (10%). - Aboriginal people account for 5.6% of the population in the City of Edmonton, representing a 25.7% population increase from the previous census cycle. - Edmonton has the second largest number of Aboriginal people of major cities, after Winnipeg. - Over half of Edmonton s Aboriginal population identified as Métis. - Aboriginal population is younger than non-aboriginal population (median age of 25 years versus 37 years). - Aboriginal youth are less likely to attend school than non-aboriginal youth, 51% attendance versus 61%. - Aboriginal men and women are less likely to complete post-secondary education than non-aboriginal men and women. - In Edmonton, 32% of Aboriginal people live below the Low Income Cut-Off rate. - 42% of Aboriginal children under 14 in this city are living in low-income conditions. - Aboriginal Edmontontonians experience low income at twice the rate of non- Aboriginal Edmontonians. - Over half of Aboriginal Edmontonians report living with chronic health conditions. - Higher representation of Aboriginal families with Child and Youth Services involvement. - Low knowledge of ethnic groups and their relationship with FASD. - Rapid population expansion and urban development. - Population growth strongly favored new neighborhoods and suburbs. - 31% of city population is in the age range of years. - 94% of catchment area population lives in the urban areas of Edmonton, Sherwood Park and St Albert. - 18% increase of homeless within Edmonton since % homeless males, 23% female - 87% increase in absolute homeless families in Edmonton since Increase seen in homeless youth. - Decrease in availability of affordable housing and supportive housing in both urban and rural communities. - Increase in greater metropolitan catchment area population % of Edmontonians live in love incomes in % of Edmontonians have not graduated high school in % of poor children live in a household where one or more persons are 22

25 working full-time for the full year. - Women in Edmonton working full-time earn on average just 75.1% of what their male counter parts do. - Approximately 27.8% of all children live in families with incomes below the Low Income Cut-Off (LICO) rates. - Females head 79.9% of lone parent families. - Over 1 in 5 persons in single parent households live in poverty % of children in lone parent families and family incomes below the LICO rate. - Income disparity between non-aboriginal and Aboriginal populations. - Increase demand for urban services creates difficulty for expansion within rural areas. - Intergenerational baby boomer are retiring; Gen X and Gen Y moving in and up. - Lacking statistics as to numbers of children living in kinship situations or with grandparents ,810 Edmontonians live in poverty, 27,970 of which are children. - Rate of mental illness among Edmonton s homeless estimated at 59%. Technological Influences - Increased use of Internet and social marketing technologies. - Increased technology investments. - Increase training opportunities for all staffs required. - Costs of technology assets are prohibitive. - Decrease in personal communications. - Need to balance face-to-face and electronic communications. Community Needs Assessment January 2016 TARGETED AND INDICATED PREVENTION 6 18 Years 18 + Years Catholic Social Services: First Steps Program - Offers mentorship to women who are pregnant or who have recently given birth and have used drugs or alcohol during the pregnancy Bissell Centre: Fetal Alcohol Spectrum of Services - Parent-Child Advocates provide one to one, long-term support to pregnant women (16+years) and women who have recently given birth and who have struggled with alcohol and drug use. Alberta Health Services: Enhanced Services For Women - Provides an enhanced level of addictions services to women with substance use problems who are pregnant or may become pregnant. There are outreach capabilities. 23

26 ASSESSMENT AND DIAGNOSIS SERVICES 0 18 Years 18 + Years Glenrose FASD Clinical Services - Multidisciplinary assessment and diagnosis for children and families affected by prenatal exposure to alcohol (7 to 17 years and 11 months of age). - The team links with community partners who provide intervention and support services. Centerpoint Young Offender Program - Assessment services for youth ages 12 17, who have come into conflict with the law and are mandated for, or are thought to require assessment/treatment for mental health or behavior problems (Edmonton). SUPPORTS FOR INDIVIDUALS AND CAREGIVERS Glenrose Adult FASD Clinical Services - Multidisciplinary assessment and diagnosis for adults affected by prenatal exposure to alcohol. - The team works in collaboration with formal and informal support systems to come up with a management plan Years 18 + Years Elizabeth Fry Society: Girls Empowered and Strong - Provides support and mentorship to girls affected by FASD through support groups. - Focus sessions include: life skills training, sexual education and self esteem building. Catholic Social Services: McDaniel Youth Program - Provides support and mentorship to youth ages affected by FASD through the development of personalized goals and increased access to groups, recreational activities and other life skills programs. - Provides support to youth who are currently involved with the youth correctional system. Bissell Centre: Fetal Alcohol Spectrum of Services - Community Advocates provide one to one, long-term support to men and women who are affected by FASD and partners of women in the Parent-Child- Assistance Program. - FASD Educators provide FASD training, information and resources to the community, clients and service agencies. Catholic Social Services: Step-By-Step - Provides long-term supports through coaching and mentorship to parents who have been diagnosed with FASD and are parenting children, who may or may not have FASD. Catholic Social Services: Coaching 24

27 - Wellness, Resiliency and Partnership (WRaP) Projects - Provides support to junior and senior high students with FASD in fourteen school sites. - On-site coaches provide services to students, families and school staff. Support Project for Youth Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Youth Justice Community Collaboration - It is a conference based project, which strives to: - Develop achievable plans for youth with FASD and their families. - Identify gaps in service and advocate for additional resources. - Identify supports needed. - Collaborate with relevant service providers to identify appropriate resources that may allow the youth to function more appropriately in custody and/or in the community. - Document case plans. Families - Provides intensive supports for 6 18 months to families with children affected by FASD. - The program will help caregivers access diagnostic services and provide appropriate tools and strategies for adjustment in living with children who have FASD, advocate with educational, recreational, and social institutions in the community, and make referrals to counseling services and parenting supports. Unlimited Potential: Open Arms - A Women s Path advocates provide culturally sensitive interventions and supports to women with FASD who are parenting children, who may or may not have FASD. - A Men s Journey advocates provide culturally sensitive mentorship support to males 18 + affected by FASD. Leduc County: Bridges Program - Provides long-term support to women and men residing in Leduc County affected by FASD through coaching, mentorship and advocacy. Elves Special Needs Society and Kids Kottage Foundation: FASD Respite Program - Site based respite for families with children affected by FASD between the ages 3 and 8 years of age during the school year. Métis Nation of Alberta - Resource worker provides support services to Métis youth and adults with FASD and their families by utilizing culturally sensitive supports in order to enhance quality of life and productivity. CASA: FASTracs - Provides schools consultations as well as in home consultations to parents with children who have FASD and a mental health disorder. - The program aims to increase caregiver knowledge and ability to integrate sensory processing with behavior management strategies. 25

28 Service Delivery Strategies Strategy #1: Elizabeth Fry Society, Girls Empowered and Strong Program (1.0 FTE) System and Client Outcomes: FASD Goal: Strategy Description A/D Supports X PCAP Network Op The Network will provide timely and coordinated supports and services based on an integrated lifespan approach which will result in: Individuals suspected or with an FASD experience improvement in their wellbeing. Caregivers of individuals with an FASD experience improvement in their wellbeing. Individuals and caregivers receiving support report satisfaction with the services received. Albertans with an FASD and their caregivers receive coordinated access to the supports and services they need, when they need it. The Girls Empowered and Strong program is a support for teenage girls impacted by an FASD who want to address the many issues facing them and become empowered to make strong and positive choices for their futures. The goal of this program is to provide teen girls, ages 13 to 17, with the skills and knowledge they need in order to make healthy life choices, thereby preventing future involvement in the criminal legal system. The program will address the realities that teen girls face in their daily lives. Workshops are available that address topics such as healthy relationships, addictions, peer pressure, healthy sexuality, bullying, dating violence, shoplifting, and other important issues. Each session includes creative activities to aid teen girls to understand the emotions they are facing as they journey into adulthood. Related Pillar Supports for Individuals and Caregivers Key Activities Provide weekly support group workshops to program participants in a school based setting. Provide an after-school drop in program once a week. Provide one-to-one mentorship support to program participants. Provide referrals to community agencies and resources. Collect data according to requirements of ORS, FASD Service Network Program and the Network. Actively participate on the Edmonton and area Fetal Alcohol Network Society and Supports and Services Team. Responsible Parties The Elizabeth Fry Society of Edmonton is contracted to provide the support services in partnership with the Network. Status Enhancement Sustaining a program that existed prior to Network funding. Number of Baseline: 40 clients to be served Target: 40 Budget Allocation $37,

29 Strategy #2: Catholic Social Services, McDaniel Youth Program A/D Supports X PCAP Network Op System and Client The Network will provide timely and coordinated supports and services based on an integrated lifespan approach which will result in: Outcomes: Individuals suspected or with an FASD experience improvement in their wellbeing. Caregivers of individuals with an FASD experience improvement in their wellbeing. Individuals and caregivers receiving support report satisfaction with the services received. FASD Goal: Albertans with an FASD and their caregivers receive coordinated access to the supports and services they need, when they need it. Strategy Description Provides one-to-one mentorship supports to youth aged 14 to 19 years who have an FASD (in the community and located in EYOC), to help them access community supports and make a successful transition into adulthood. Mentors work with youth for a period of up to 3 years. Related Pillar Supports for Individuals and Caregivers Key Activities Connect program participants to and advocate for access to community resources. Provide one-to-one mentorship to ensure basic needs of program participants are met. Provide social and recreational opportunities to promote healthy social interactions. Advocate for and find suitable housing and employment options for program participants. Collect data according to requirements of ORS, FASD Service Network Program and the Network. Actively participate on the Edmonton and area Fetal Alcohol Network Society and Supports and Services Team. Responsible Parties Catholic Social Services is contracted to provide the support services in partnership with the Network. Status New Sustaining a new program/service. Number of clients to be served Budget Allocation Program Baseline: 60 Target: 60 $502,