Advocating Through Communicating
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How would you describe your Action Learning Project and the difference you hope it will make to advance your organization ’ s mission ( or the field ) and benefit the individuals you serve ?
My Action Learning Project is to implement a Family Council in my facility . A certain time will be set aside each month to allow family members to come together , in one room , to bring forward whatever they desire . Family members express so many valuable ideas and suggestions individually during conversation with me that it feels appropriate that a formal meeting take place . The council will be similar to resident council , but for family members . As our organization continues to move forward with culture change , it is the belief that family members should , and will , play a vital part of that movement . They are able to provide the facility with honest feedback that can then be turned around and incorporated into quality improvement efforts . They are also providing an outside perspective that staff are not able to necessarily fully recognize and see . Family members may offer suggestions and , as a result become part of the decision making process , implementing changes for the better . Most importantly , these changes are for the benefit of their loved ones . 2
How have the relationships you ’ ve developed as part of your project ( with mentors , partners , stakeholders , etc .) influenced this direction and you as a leader ?
First off , the relationships that I have developed with the family members of the residents who reside at our facility has only improved for the better . We have grown closer and they feel comfortable expressing their grievances , knowing that I am the facilities grievance officer . Family members have provided feedback that I am reliable with getting back to them . I have strengthened my relationship with The Ombudsman representing my area and she has been such a valuable asset with getting the Family Council established ; she has provided suggestions and resources that I have found useful . She attended our first meeting and started the meeting by explaining what a Family Council is and what our facility hopes to achieve from the meeting . What I was able to bring back to the other directors of my facility was valuable , and they were very eager to hear feedback and perspectives from the family members . I personally feel that my qualities as a leader have grown in the areas of : delegation , commitment , selfresponsibility , being a positive role model , and maintaining the facilities mission / vision .
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What have been important turning points for you , in your own learning , as you ’ ve engaged with the action learning process ( you might consider a surprise , insight , setback , or challenge )?
Without hesitation , a turning point for me was the realization of how much these family members have actually wanted to be involved with decision making or to have their voices be heard . I hadn ’ t anticipated how much they would look forward to coming to a monthly meeting . The eager looks on their faces and upbeat , ‘ ready to go ’ attitudes took me by surprise . As a result , we have gained so much valuable insight , which will carry on throughout our facility for generations to come . 4
How do you hope your project might unfold in the months and years ahead and what impact do you hope it will have on the field at large ?
I truly do hope that my implementation and dedication to this project unfolds in a positive and successful way . Specifically , I hope that it remains an ongoing monthly occurrence . I hope our facility continues to learn and grow as we move forward with culture change . I also hope that our family members still feel both inspired and empowered to bring forth their wonderful insight and share their thoughts with those who run Family Council after I am no longer involved . Healthcare and long-term care will continue to need a voice , and the voice of Family Council representatives is critical .
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Jessica L . Fowler Social Services Director Seneca Hill Manor
How has the action learning process in the context of the Leadership Academy experience contributed to your growth as a leader ?
As a young and evolving leader , the Leadership Academy action learning process has been an eye opening experience for me . I am a hands-on learner and this process made it so I had to actually go out into my field and bring to fruition what I envisioned . This has contributed to my growth as a leader in more ways than one can imagine . However , I will narrow these changes down to the those I consider to be most essential to me . First and foremost , I was able to turn my vision into a success which was a huge personal achievement , but also implemented a facility vision , and so much more . I have bettered my skills in the areas of communication , professionalism , delegation , independence , and most importantly my personal leadership growth .
IGNITE Leadership Academy Action Learning Project 2016-17 15