Welcome to the ACDS Umbrella, our quarterly newsletter   Reading this online? Subscribe today

In This March 2022 Issue

ACDS News Save the Dates: ACDS 2022 Conference Celebrating 50 Years of ACDS Strategic Priorities and Actions 2022-2025   ACDS Program Updates CET 2021 Standards Effective April 1, 2022 Congratulations to CET Level 1 and 2 Service Providers Upcoming and Ongoing Training Events   Advocacy and Research BlueprintCDS: Towards a Skilled and Sustainable Workforce: launched ACDS Survey 2021, Organizational Wellness and Workforce: report released The Perfect Storm, Workforce Challenges and Escalating Costs in Community Disability Services: released Advocacy Timeline: updated

ACDS News

Save the Dates: ACDS 2022 Conference

Between Tuesday, September 27 to Thursday, September 29, we look forward to reuniting the Community Disability Services (CDS) sector, families, volunteers, and supporters through an energizing and celebratory conference. The 2022 annual conference will also mark 50 years since ACDS was established.   ReCharge: Let’s Come Together at the ACDS 2022 Conference will revitalize our sector through engaging and inspiring presentations and activities that focus on building individual and organizational resilience.    Let’s come together and rejuvenate our spirits as we move ahead from two challenging years. Let’s share knowledge and expertise and further strengthen our capacities to support individuals, our organizations, and our sector. And as we gather, let's restore our passion for the crucial work we do.    Please save the dates! (Note that the main conference will be held on September 28 and 29.)

#ACDS2022Conference #ACDS50Years

Call for conference advisory committee members Apply by April 4

Celebrating 50 Years

Since 1972, ACDS has worked to strengthen and elevate the Community Disability Services sector to ensure individuals with developmental disabilities receive the high-quality services they deserve.   On this milestone anniversary, we reflect on our organization's rich history and all we have achieved with the support and trust of our members and other supporters. As we reflect on our 50 years, we also look ahead to all that is yet to to come.   Follow and share our social media activity as we mark #ACDS50Years. If you have photos or stories that you'd like to share to contribute to our social media celebration, please post using the hashtag #ACDS50Years, or send to acds@acds.ca with a description and we will add it to our messaging!

View the timeline: 50 Years of ACDS

ACDS Strategic Priorities and Actions 2022-2025

In February 2022, we presented the ACDS Strategic Priorities and Actions 2022-2025 to our membership. The strategic plan will inform and drive the development and delivery of ACDS’ programs, services, and initiatives in the next 3 years.

Read the full strategic plan (ACDS members only)

Read the summary

ACDS Program Updates

?CET 2021 Accreditation Standards effective April 1, 2022

In September 2021, we announced the launch of the 2021 edition of the Creating Excellence Together Standards. Beginning April 1, 2022, the new Standards are mandatory for all PDD-funded service providers undertaking accreditation.   Since September 2021, service providers have had the option of undertaking the 2021 CET Standards. Here's a summary of what we are hearing from participating service providers.   The new Standards offer a streamlined accreditation process: the Standards are relevant and focused and have allowed for an efficient and smooth process of accreditation. Service providers have also appreciated the benefits of customized tools such as the customized self-study guide. The new digital and virtual tools are effective: The new digitized tools have been very well received. Service providers have commented on the ease of using the new digital tools and the effectiveness of virtual platforms (for example, in survey interviews). Shorter pre-survey preparation time: given the reduction in overall standards, the quality of support from ACDS Accreditation staff, digital and virtual tools, the survey preparation time has significantly reduced.

Learn more about the CET Standards

Congratulations to CET Level 2 Service Providers    ACDS is pleased to announce that the following service providers achieved CET Level 2 Accreditation. Level 2 service providers are recognized for their innovative and creative approaches in delivering quality services to individuals with developmental disabilities.    Arch Enterprises and Training Association of Edmonton Inc: Arch Enterprises also met the requirements for the Complex Support Needs Designation. Arch Enterprises was the first service provider to be accredited through the new 2021 CET Standards!