VISION / Mission / Values
VISION
Engaged and inclusive community where everybody belongs
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MISSION
In partnership with families and community, we foster a life of belonging for children and youth with developmental disabilities, building meaningful relationships and valued roles. We share and promote the value of inclusion and belonging.
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VALUES
Diverse, caring relationships
Individual gifts and strengths
Participation in everyday community life
Respecting and honouring choice
Valued member in society
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Strategic plan
Extend-A-Family (EAF) is a not-for-profit, charitable organization, founded in 1976, governed by a volunteer Board of Directors comprised of parents of children with disabilities, self advocates and community members. Extend-A-Family works in the community to facilitate the building of relationships between individuals who have disabilities and other members of the community. We believe that all people belong and that our community is stronger when all members are included. We
foster public awareness of the gifts and contributions of people with disabilities.
In early 2017, Extend-A-Family embarked on a comprehensive strategic planning process that engaged families, board members, staff, community partners, and leading thinkers in the field. A Strategic Planning Committee of the Board with representation from the Board, staff and parents provided oversight and guidance to the planning process. The broadly consultative planning resulted in a new vision, mission, and values, and a new strategic plan to guide EAF’s priorities and energies over the next Strategic Priorities, Goals and Tactics
OUR MISSION
OUR VALUES
OUR HISTORY
2.
Building on EAF outreach to reach a broader audience
1.
Expanding our initiatives in support of youth
EAF
3.
Championing inclusive philosophy & strategies through external partnerships and networks
4.
Measuring our performance and highlighting achievements
OUR VISION
Engaged and inclusive community where everybody belongs
5.
Strengthening our infrastructure and organization foundation
The direction for the next four years is solidly built on EAF’s strong foundation and 40 year history. The consultation process identified EAF as being a highly valued leader in the community and dedicated champion for children and youth with developmental disabilities. Families and partners expressed several important attributes of EAF:
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“EAF is a unique organization – the only group providing this kind of support to families/ youth in Toronto.”
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“EAF champions children and youth, promoting participation, contribution, presence and opportunities to been seen, heard and blossom – driving a focus on a good life.”
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“EAF walks with families and their loved ones for a long time, through ups and downs.”
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“EAF engages small responsive staff, who fully live the values.”
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“EAF builds strong partnerships with schools, school boards, community youth organizations and others.”
EAF has a tremendous opportunity to have greater impact in building communities where ‘everybody belongs’. The thrust of this strategic plan is to deliver greater impact for children and youth, families and communities in bringing the value and practice of belonging to everyday life. Five strategic priorities will guide our actions through 2018 to 2021:
1. Expanding our initiatives in support of youth
2. Building on EAF outreach to reach a broader audience.
3. Championing inclusive philosophy and strategies through external partnerships and networks
4. Measuring our performance and highlighting achievements.
5. Strengthening our infrastructure and organizational foundation