The Drumheller and Region Transition Society (DARTS) has been recognized for exceptional service to the community after being accredited as a level two service provider for people with disabilities, while also earning new accreditation to provide services to children and those with complex needs.
The level two accreditation acknowledges that DARTS provides a higher level of quality of service, with the organization previously earning level one accreditation. The promotion came after a comprehensive review from the Alberta Council of Disability Services reviewed their files and interviewed staff and users. The standards are developed by professionals in consultation with individuals with developmental disabilities, their families, and staff. The standards are a public affirmation that the organization is meeting high standards of service.
“The nutshell is that we want to be recognized by the field. You can say you provide excellent, quality services but it’s not certain until you’re actually tested and proven,” says executive director Lorelei Martin. “We don’t do it for the recognition but we do it for the confirmation that we are excellent in what we do.”
The review also approved them to provide children’s services and services to those with complex needs, something which DARTS had not been accredited for in over a decade. The organization began three-month children’s services trial, with support from Accredited Supports in Olds and Family Support for Children with Disabilities, on August 1 which will be the foundation for a children’s service program currently in development.
“We were hearing there were children and families in Drumheller needing services but who weren’t getting them at all for different reasons. There were services not being met due to the lack of resources, whether it was staffing, training, or funding. Families are hoping services can be provided in their homes and local communities so that services are more accessible,” Martin says.
Families and individuals in need of services in Drumheller can find more information by visiting the Family Support for Children with Disabilities page on the Alberta Human Services website.
