| PROGRAMME OUTLINE INTRODUCTION AND GOALS Friends and Advocates Centre ia an independent, non-profit, non-medical consumer/survivor initiative which is mainly funded by the Ministry of Health. This programme has been in operation since January, 1977 and is controlled, operated and run by it’s members – people who have experienced mental or emotional distress. The mandate of this organization is to assist consumer/survivors in developing and maintaining a welcoming , non-judgemental and mutually supportive centre which will provide education, enhance and develop self- esteem, and empower people with mental health problems to make positive changes in their lives, in their community, and in the mental health system. Members also have opportunities to improve social, communication, problem-solving and relationship skills while learning about their rights, privileges and responsibilities. Most importantly they can develop lasting supportive networks. These particular goals are accomplished through active involvement and participation in the member-planned and facilitated social and recreational activities. CRITERIA Anyone, over the age of sixteen (16), that has been diagnosed with emotional or mental health problems and agrees with the vision of the programme is welcome. There is, however, a zero tolerance policy for either physically or verbally abusive and violent behaviour. Most members hear about the programme from friends, acquaintances, mental health professionals, hospital social workers, public health nurses or psychiatrists. MEMBERSHIP Everyone who is a part of the Friends And Advocates programme is called a MEMBER. Although some of our members need a lot of support from time to time, many members, including our leaders, support others and function in a volunteer role when they are able and wish to do so. Members of Friends And Advocates range in age from 19 to 65 and come from various ethnic, economic and social backgrounds. Some members live with families, some alone; others live in supportive housing, private rooming houses and boarding homes. While some members are employed, most are unemployed and receive financial assistance , or are engaged in various re-training programmes. PROGRAMME PLANNING AND POLICY Since the programme is run by and for it’s members, all members are encouraged to participate in programme planning and decision-making by attending committees, expressing their opinions, sharing ideas and voting at General Members’ Meetings. When they have more experience they may choose to become Board Members. Board Members /Executives are elected from the membership at the Annual General Meeting and serve for a two year term. The decisions and policies of the programme are decided at a monthly General Members’ Meeting and members are encouraged to attend these meetings. The group decision- making process is important to the development of all involved and while the elected Board are legally responsible for financial and policy decisions, they share that decision-making process with all members. Confidence and self-esteem, which are gained from being involved in decision-making, spins off into other areas of our lives. SOCIAL/RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES There is a daily drop-in at the office. There are about 25 to 30 varied social and recreational opportunities each month, depending on the needs and interests of the existing group. Members who attend the Recreation and Leisure Planning Committee monthly meetings, choose these activities. Events may include dances, bowling, movie nights, card and board games nights, small discussion groups, life skills sessions and bus trips. Sharing social activities allows participants to build new relationships, talk about common experiences, and generally build self-confidence and social skills. Prospective members must agree to attend at least two scheduled activities of their choice per month. There are activities 365 days of the year, including Christmas Day with it’s traditional turkey dinner. LEADERS Members who are trained to be leaders facilitate all scheduled events. At least two leaders attend and facilitate each event. After at least one full year of membership, those wishing to become leaders attend a five-session leadership training course which enables these individuals to build self-confidence while working on leadership skills. STAFF Friends And Advocates employs 4 full-time staff, including the executive director and the administrative clerk. Staff members are also consumer/survivors. Staff are available to listen and support members when needed. Staff may also act as instructed advocates when requested by a members and/or may suggest other appropriate resources to help resolve specific issues. Staff is available for emergency situations 24/7. Rev.03/06/2008- |
| Programme Outline |
| Friends and Advocates Centre |
 | |  | |  | |  | |  | |  | |  |