Accreditation

Our 2006 Strategic Plan has paved the way for some very exciting changes here at Mainstream. One of the most significant decisions was the one to seek accreditation. Accreditation, as it turns out, is both a status and a process. As a status, accreditation confirms that Mainstream meets standards of quality set forth by FOCUS Accreditation, the accreditation agency we are working with. As a process, accreditation demonstrates our commitment to undergo periodic peer reviews and continuously seek ways in which to improve the quality of service we provide. Our accreditation journey started in October 2007 and the Gap Analysis began in March of this year. The Gap Analysis is the first phase in the process and it is a reflective exercise. The goal is to review each standard that we are required to meet in order to determine how well we are currently doing. Once each standard is reviewed, and the Gap Analysis is complete, an Action Plan will be developed to address any unmet standards.

As we approach the second phase in the Accreditation process, we will be shifting our focus from reflective discussions to focused planning. We will be working to meet the requirements for each standard while ensuring that we remain true to our mission and our vision. Our goal is to complete the Accreditation process by late 2009. This next year will be an exciting one. It will be a time to celebrate our successes, challenge ourselves and come together for a common goal.