Learning Plan for Practicum with
the Jessica martel memorial foundation
May 2012-December 2012
696 LEADERSHIP LEARNING AGREEMENT: PLAN & EVALUATION
Student's Name: Laura Hennie
Practicum Agency and Program: SAIF Society- safe housing initiative
Please provide a brief description of your practicum:
At SAIF Society’s 2012 Strategic Planning session, safe housing initiatives were identified as an agency priority in the area of community collaboration. SAIF society and their executive director, Doreen Slessor, will support me in my work with the Jessica Martel Memorial Foundation (JMMF) regarding their safe housing initiative. The goal of the JMMF is to establish a safe house within the community of Morinville/ Sturgeon County for families fleeing domestic violence. My role will be to develop a strategic plan and assist the JMMF in areas of strategic planning governance, fund development, policy and procedure implementation, ethics and accountability.
The deliverable for the practicum will be a Strategic Plan that the JMMF can present to funders. The plan can be implemented once sustainable funding is secured.
PRACTICE OBJECTIVE 1: Values, Ethics & Professional Identity
Values, Ethics & Professional Identity: Student Learning Plan
Component of Practice Objective What do you want to learn?
Learning Activities How will you accomplish the learning?
Accountability How will you evaluate your learning?
Time Line By when will you accomplish this?
1. I will learn how to identify organizational values
The board will be asked to identify organizational values and I will
incorporate those values into the strategic plan.
I will be asking the board to review the strategic plan to ensure that I
have incorporated their values into the plan.
2012/06/10
2. I will represent the organization in a professional and credible manner
I will demonstrate professionalism when networking with stakeholders and
other community members. I will meet with potential funders and other
stakeholders, such as the town's planning committee, and will demonstrate
professionalism through my dress attire and presentation of self. I will make
phone calls on behalf of the organization and ensure that I am appropriately
representing the interests of the organization.
Feedback from board members and self- reflection.
2012/09/28
3. I would like to learn more about accreditation of human services
organizations and how it relates to leadership in social work, values and ethics
of the ACSW
I will be booking an agency visit to the Canadian Accreditation Counsel and
present the information to JMMF board members in order to explore the
feasability, pro's and cons of becoming accredited
I will be able to present the information to the board and provide
recommendations on whether accreditation is needed in the present or future of
the organization.
2012/07/30
EVALUATION OF PRACTICE OBJECTIVE 1: VALUES, ETHICS &
PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY
Overall, the student’s performance indicates attainment of
the knowledge and skills associated with the Values, Ethics &
Professional Identity objective at the following level:
Mid-Course:
Student: Meeting Objective
Field Instructor: Meeting Objective
Final:
Student: Meeting Objective
Field Instructor: Exceeding Objective
COMMENTS – STUDENT:
Mid-Course:
I have had the opportunity to be involved in a non-profit
organization at its infancy, which has given me the opportunity to observe and
participate in developing organizational values, as well as assisting them in
becoming credible within the community of Morinville as well as within the
domestic violence community.
Final:
A significant learning for me has been to integrate
professional values into the foundation while at the same time maintaining the
foundation's grassroots. It has been important to find a balance between
professional values and ethics while at the same time ensuring that the
implementation of policies do not impede service delivery.
COMMENTS – FIELD INSTRUCTOR
Mid-Course:
Laura has played an important role in the development of the
organization's identity and with that she has helped identify the values and
ethics of which the organization will be founded upon. Good work.
Final:
Laura is fortunate enough to be with this agency in its infancy
stage. Often when we try to implement change when an agency is established and
run into difficulties. It is exciting to see an agency develop its core
mission/values from the ground up. Laura has been instrumental in ensuring that
they are reflective of core social work values and principles.
PRACTICE OBJECTIVE 2: Leading Others
Leading Others: Student Learning Plan
Component of Practice Objective What do you want to learn?
Learning Activities How will you accomplish the learning?
Accountability How will you evaluate your learning?
Time Line By when will you accomplish this?
1. I will be helping the JMMF in transforming a shared vision into a viable
plan and to make recommendations.
Development of a strategic plan for the organization. Attendance of board
meetings, meeting with agency and community stakeholders
A draft of the strategic plan will be submitted for review for the SOWK 679
course. The strategic plan should enable JMMF to move forward in their plans to
open up a safe house and to present funders with a viable plan in which they can
invest. Feedback will be sought from board members in completing the final
draft.
2012/07/30
2. To learn how to Network and establish working relations will be key in this
project, as there are a number of stakeholders with whom we will need to
collaborate with.
I will meet with the Town's planning committee and with potential funders,
other stakeholders
I will be confident in my ability to represent the agency and to collaborate
with stakeholders in order for the project to move forward. The JMMF will be
successful in collaborating with stakeholders and have support form the Town and
several funders, at least one sustainable funder.
2012/10/31
3. To learn how to develop a model that will be used as basis for this shelter
by researching other shelters/ safe houses and learn how they implement their
programming
Agency visit to Sparrow's Hope, a shelter in the Westlock/ Barrhead area
that JMMF would like to use as a model for their shelter. I will also develop
some questions and call other shelters in the province.
I will be able to make recommendations to JMMF in terms of programming for
the safe house; presenting a model to the Board; documenting the information
received from other shelters using a methodical approach to documentation.
2012/07/30
4. I will learn about developing policy for a new initiative
I will research standards and policy for existing shelters and assist the
JMMF in beginning the process of developing policies for a Safe House. I will
also develop board policies for the foundation.
I will be able to make recommendations to JMMF in terms of policies for the
safe house and will discuss process of policy development with Derek,
2012/10/31
5. learn about the roles and responsibilities of board members
Doreen Slessor, Executive Director from SAIF society, will be doing a
presentation to the board to clarify their roles and responsibilities. I will
be in attendance. I will utilize learning opporutnities from SOWK 679 course
about governance and board effectivess, seek reading materials. I will be
developing board policies and board roles and responsibilities
I will be able to identify the roles and responsibilities of board members
and have a better understanding of organizational structure, and incorporate the
learnings into the strategic plan.
2012/07/30
EVALUATION OF PRACTICE OBJECTIVE 2: LEADING OTHERS
Overall, the student’s performance indicates attainment of
the knowledge and skills associated with the Leading Others objective
at the following level:
Mid-Course:
Student: Meeting Objective
Field Instructor: Meeting Objective
Final:
Student: Meeting Objective
Field Instructor: Exceeding Objective
COMMENTS – STUDENT:
Mid-Course:
The development of the strategic plan and board policy have
been the two primary projects that has assisted with the development of the
organizational identity. The focus has been on finding a "niche" for the
foundation and identifying gaps in services for victims of domestic violence in
our community. I have had the opportunity to present new and innovative ideas
for programming to the board, including the student engagement opportunities in
schools to put a face to domestic violence, and offering free seminars on self
defense to victims as a way to enhance self esteem.
Final:
I have focused on integrating theory with practice during this
portion of the practicum which has been helpful in terms of figuring out what is
important for me to remember as I aspire to be a leader. This practicum has
greatly assisted in developing my practice framework.
COMMENTS – FIELD INSTRUCTOR
Mid-Course:
We have had very good discussions about practice regarding the
external roles of the organization and the role of social work in those roles.
There are no issues in this regard.
Final:
Again, we have had good discussion regarding role clarification
and sometimes working within a multi-disciplinary team and the challenges that
may bring. No issues in this
area.
PRACTICE OBJECTIVE 3: Facilitating Change
Facilitating Change: Student Learning Plan
Component of Practice Objective What do you want to learn?
Learning Activities How will you accomplish the learning?
Accountability How will you evaluate your learning?
Time Line By when will you accomplish this?
1. Learn how to develop strategies that will enable a new initiative to be
accepted/developed
A safe house is a new initiative within the community and is in response to
a perceived need. I will be advocating for the safe house and assisting the
organization in overcoming any barriers that may present itself.
I will be able to identify the barriers we have encountered and how we
overcame them.
2012/12/06
2. I will be supporting the foundation in addressing systemic issues
I will be ensuring they are abiding by all of the necessary licensing
requirements and town by-laws.
I will be able to identify what the licensing requirements are and relevant
by-laws.
2012/09/28
EVALUATION OF PRACTICE OBJECTIVE 3: FACILITATING CHANGE
Overall, the student’s performance indicates attainment of
the knowledge and skills associated with the Facilitating Change
objective at the following level:
Mid-Course:
Student: Meeting Objective
Field Instructor: Meeting Objective
Final:
Student: Meeting Objective
Field Instructor: Exceeding Objective
COMMENTS – STUDENT:
Mid-Course:
I have challenged myself to think outside the box in terms of
the safe house initiative, in trying to figure out how we can best serve our
community using the resources that we have, and taking into consideration the
current political climate and "Housing First" model that the government is
using. Part of this challenge has been to identify what is and isn't working in
traditional shelters. One of the issues is that women cannot be expected to
heal from abuse in an institutionalized, shared accommodation environment. Also,
women in our rural community do not want to go to an urban setting for
shelter.
Final:
Attending the Diverse Voices domestic violence conference
helped me to further assess the direction of the foundation and what existing
ideas and services can be implemented now or in the future, such as partnerships
with police and crown prosecutors.
COMMENTS – FIELD INSTRUCTOR
Mid-Course:
Good discussion about rural vs. urban social work and as well
the Aboriginal population that maybe served by this organization and whether or
not they are prepared for this client base.
Final:
Laura's confidence has grown significantly in tis area of
change management. She is able to confidently bring back information to the
Board and provide both sides to an issue and offer possible solutions or the
foundation of a god discussion. It is this writer's hope that this knowledge is
also transferable to her current job where change is exploding. I encourage
Laura to try and take a leadership role in this area when
possible.
PRACTICE OBJECTIVE 4: Managing Resources
Managing Resources: Student Learning Plan
Component of Practice Objective What do you want to learn?
Learning Activities How will you accomplish the learning?
Accountability How will you evaluate your learning?
Time Line By when will you accomplish this?
1. I will be managing a project from beginning to end. Part of the strategic
plan will be to identify the needed resources to initiate and sustain the
project.
A SWOT analysis will be included in the strategic plan, review of the
estimated costs and budgeting. Find out what start-up costs will look like.
The strategic plan will clearly identify the needed resources for start-up
and sustainability.
2012/06/10
2. I will seek out additional funding sources for the project
I will research available grants, complete a funding proposal, work with
JMMF in approaching local businesses. I will assist the foundation in event
planning and take on a leadership role in at least one fundraising event.
The necessary resources will be in place in order to start-up the safe
house.
2012/10/31
3. I will learn more about fundraising
Doreen Slessor, Executive Director of SAIF society, will be conducting a
"Fundraising 101" workshop for the board members of JMMF. I will be attending
the workshop.
I will be able to demonstrate my learnings of fundraising into practice.
2012/07/30
4. I will learn how to lead a fundraising initiative
I will be organizing an annual memorial run, which will be a major
fundraising event for the JMMF. I will be required to get sponsorship from
local businesses and to collaborate with the Town of Morinville to ensure that
all necessary permits are obtained.
planning process goes smoothly and the event is a success in terms of
participation and funds raised
2012/12/01
EVALUATION OF PRACTICE OBJECTIVE 4: MANAGING RESOURCES
Overall, the student’s performance indicates attainment of
the knowledge and skills associated with the Managing Resources
objective at the following level:
Mid-Course:
Student: Meeting Objective
Field Instructor: Meeting Objective
Final:
Student:Meeting Objective
Field Instructor: Exceeding Objective
COMMENTS – STUDENT:
Mid-Course:
In organizing the First Annual Jessica Martel Memorial Run, I
am learning how to manage a project from beginning to end, and learning about
the need to prioritize goals when organizing such an event (fundraising versus
community awareness. I am also getting the opportunity to explore special
events grants.
Final:
I completed a grant application for the First Annual Jessica
Martel Memorial Run, and developed a budget for the event. I am on the Grants
Committee and compiled a list of available grants. I have also done some
research around further educating myself on fundraising and have decided to
pursue a certificate in fundraising after the completion of my MSW. I have
learned that fund development is an area of interest for me and would like to
further explore beyond my practicum.
COMMENTS – FIELD INSTRUCTOR
Mid-Course:
Laura is quickly learning that the role of social worker may
also include working in fund development as well as quality assurance. It is
challenging and Laura is doing a good job at helping the agency understand those
dual type roles.
Final:
Laura has been able to immerse herself in the area of fund
development and the art of "asking". Further training in this area would assist
her in solidifying her skills. Well
done!
PRACTICE OBJECTIVE 5: Diversity, Oppression & Social Justice
Diversity, Oppression & Social Justice: Student Learning Plan
Component of Practice Objective What do you want to learn?
Learning Activities How will you accomplish the learning?
Accountability How will you evaluate your learning?
Time Line By when will you accomplish this?
1. learn how to incorporate diverse needs into the design of the shelter. In
this practicum, I will need to recognize Morinville and area as a diverse
community and to gain an understanding of what the needs are.
Further exploration of the complex relationship between the Town of
Morinville, Sturgeon County, and the Alexander reserve, which is in close
proximity. If the safe house is to serve all of these populations, then we need
to ensure the programming addresses their needs. Program development will be
inclusive of these populations.
The safe house will be able to meet the needs of all the populations that it
will be serving.
2012/12/06
2. Learn how to apply an anti-oppressive lens when designing the shelter or its
policies
EVALUATION OF PRACTICE OBJECTIVE 5: DIVERSITY, OPPRESSION & SOCIAL JUSTICE
Overall, the student’s performance indicates attainment of
the knowledge and skills associated with the Diversity, Oppression &
Social Justice objective at the following level:
Mid-Course:
Student: Meeting Objective
Field Instructor: Exceeding Objective
Final:
Student: Meeting Objective
Field Instructor: Exceeding Objective
COMMENTS – STUDENT:
Mid-Course:
One of learnings has been how to implement a safe house
initiative while taking into consideration how to respect and restore the
dignity of victims of domestic violence as well as how to meet the needs of
victims coming from a variety of backgrounds.
Final:
Social Justice has been an integral part of my practice
framework . As it relates to my practicum, I have viewed my role as ensuring
that women and families leaving abusive situation have the opportunity to start
a new life. I am hoping that our upcoming course on social justice and
oppression will further assist me in my work with the Foundation.
COMMENTS – FIELD INSTRUCTOR
Mid-Course:
Laura is well apt to be able to ling theory on oppression to
practice. She is well versed in this and can articulate to different audiences
the impact that oppression has on practice. This is one of Laura' strongest
abilities observed this far.
Final:
Again, this is Laura's biggest strength. Our conversations
regarding oppression and how it is seen in this community as compared to other's
is impressive. Solid working knowledge of anti-oppressive practice and how the
agency needs to invest in this type of training for everyone
involved.
SUMMATIVE COMMENTS: MID-COURSE EVALUATION
Mid-Course Evaluation Comments - Student
Overall the practicum
is going well. I have had many opportunities for learning. This practicum has
given me the opportunity to learn about leadership in a small, non-profit
setting which is significantly different from my employment with the government.
The timing of the practicum was ideal as the newness of the organization has
enabled be to assist in developing their organizational values and identity,
program, policy and fund development. My focus will now be on incorporating
theory with practice through journaling and critical reflection.
Mid-Course Evaluation Comments - Field Instructor
Laura is doing
extremely well in her placement. The organization is lucky to have someone like
her at the infancy stage of development. She is able to complete research in a
thorough manner and is able to point out to the organization areas that require
further development. In addition she is able to offer suggestions for these
areas.
I am most impressed with her abilities to "think outside the
box" and be creative. She is very open to suggestions and able to bring this
back to the agency for discussion.
Laura self identified the need for
better skills in public speaking and has researched a few options to address
this. In addition we were able to find a resource to do some facilitation with
the board to finalize their mission statement.
Hopefully Laura will be
able to attend the peer review training as it would help her in the area of
quality assurance.
As I stated before the agency is fortunate to have
her on board!
Mid-Course Evaluation Comments - Faculty Liaison
Laura
completed her mid-term evaluation on September 26th and addressed all of the
learning objectives. She stated that her practicum was going well and that she
was having the opportunity to integrate theory with practice. She spoke of the
opportunity to work independently, be self-directed as she worked with this new
organization to set their vision, mandate and strategic plan. We discussed the
importance of this becoming ‘their tool’ and how she was helping them identify
the direction of the agency without imposing her own expectations.
Derek commented that the practicum was going well and that he was
encouraging the integration of theory with practice during supervision. He
pointed out how the strategic plan and accreditation standards incorporated the
identification of organizational values. Laura and Derek discussed her
leadership approach and some of the challenges within the organization regarding
collective vs. individual values and expectations for leadership. We talked
about the process of facilitating change, issues of sustainability and the
reality of the organizational context.
Derek provided feedback on
Laura’s ability to think critically and deal with setting realistic goals within
the current environment. Laura provided examples of how she approached the need
for change creatively, acknowledging the differing reactions to change. We also
discussed her learning around managing resources including a fund-raising event
and carrying out a SWOT analysis. The conversation ended with a discussion
about decisions regarding who the target population was and how to realistically
deal with issues of diversity and inclusion/eligibility while addressing the
needs of a specific community.
The next half of the practicum will focus
learning on:
• Getting some smaller programs off the ground (public
speaking; community partners)
• Journaling as a means to integrate theory
(particularly leadership theory)
• Accessing financial resources (eg.
)grants
• Peer review training
Well done, Laura. I look forward to
you contributions in the Integrative Seminars
MID-COURSE DETERMINATION
Completed requirements:
Yes
SUMMATIVE COMMENTS: FINAL EVALUATION
Final Evaluation Comments - Student
I am grateful for the
opportunities I have had with the Foundation and have recently accepted the role
of Vice President of the Board. Although I have completed my goals for
practicum, I plan on continuing my learnings through ongoing involvement with
the foundation.
Final Evaluation Comments - Field Instructor
Laura has proven that
she can be a leader in regards to this area of practice. As a Senior Manager in
her area of employment I am worried that she will soon leave us with all of this
new knowledge. Her knowledge of theory combined with an already solid practice
will ensure she has a future in management and leadership in organizations
addressing social justice.
Final Evaluation Comments - Faculty Liaison
Laura completed her final evaluation on Dec 5th and addressed all of the learning objectives. She
spoke about how this experience had increased
her confidence and
consolidated her social work and leadership values. Working with an
organization at its early stage of development enabled Laura to experience a
number of leadership opportunities such as: program development, policy,
communication, planning and mentoring. Derek provided Laura with feedback,
identifying her AOP knowledge as a key strength and how she had been able to
identify issues, think critically, suggest solutions and make decisions, taking
into consideration the ethics involved. We discussed the concept of change and
Derek challenged Laura to apply her knowledge of facilitating change when
working with current staff. In the future, Laura identified more public
speaking and a role in education as areas for further career development.
Well done, Laura, good luck with your future endeavours, particularly as
guest lecturer in Derek’s class!
Myra
FINAL DETERMINATION
Practicum complete: Yes
Student's Name: Laura Hennie
Practicum Agency and Program: SAIF Society- safe housing initiative
Please provide a brief description of your practicum:
At SAIF Society’s 2012 Strategic Planning session, safe housing initiatives were identified as an agency priority in the area of community collaboration. SAIF society and their executive director, Doreen Slessor, will support me in my work with the Jessica Martel Memorial Foundation (JMMF) regarding their safe housing initiative. The goal of the JMMF is to establish a safe house within the community of Morinville/ Sturgeon County for families fleeing domestic violence. My role will be to develop a strategic plan and assist the JMMF in areas of strategic planning governance, fund development, policy and procedure implementation, ethics and accountability.
The deliverable for the practicum will be a Strategic Plan that the JMMF can present to funders. The plan can be implemented once sustainable funding is secured.
PRACTICE OBJECTIVE 1: Values, Ethics & Professional Identity
- Learners demonstrate the ability to apply social work values, adhere to CASW
- Integrate social work values and professional Ethics and Guidelines within a
leadership context.
- Identify how personal and professional values impact their leadership
practice. - Identify ethical dilemmas in practice and apply ethical decision-making
processes. - Examine organizational values and their impact on staff, programs and
service to clients. - Analyze social work leadership within a social services context and compare
it to other forms of leadership/management. - Critically reflect on their social work practice within a leadership
context. - Demonstrate professionalism in the practicum setting.
Code of Ethics & Guidelines for Ethical Practice, and analyze the role of
ethics and values in leadership practice, social/organizational policy and
organizational effectiveness. Learners will be able to:
Values, Ethics & Professional Identity: Student Learning Plan
Component of Practice Objective What do you want to learn?
Learning Activities How will you accomplish the learning?
Accountability How will you evaluate your learning?
Time Line By when will you accomplish this?
1. I will learn how to identify organizational values
The board will be asked to identify organizational values and I will
incorporate those values into the strategic plan.
I will be asking the board to review the strategic plan to ensure that I
have incorporated their values into the plan.
2012/06/10
2. I will represent the organization in a professional and credible manner
I will demonstrate professionalism when networking with stakeholders and
other community members. I will meet with potential funders and other
stakeholders, such as the town's planning committee, and will demonstrate
professionalism through my dress attire and presentation of self. I will make
phone calls on behalf of the organization and ensure that I am appropriately
representing the interests of the organization.
Feedback from board members and self- reflection.
2012/09/28
3. I would like to learn more about accreditation of human services
organizations and how it relates to leadership in social work, values and ethics
of the ACSW
I will be booking an agency visit to the Canadian Accreditation Counsel and
present the information to JMMF board members in order to explore the
feasability, pro's and cons of becoming accredited
I will be able to present the information to the board and provide
recommendations on whether accreditation is needed in the present or future of
the organization.
2012/07/30
EVALUATION OF PRACTICE OBJECTIVE 1: VALUES, ETHICS &
PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY
Overall, the student’s performance indicates attainment of
the knowledge and skills associated with the Values, Ethics &
Professional Identity objective at the following level:
Mid-Course:
Student: Meeting Objective
Field Instructor: Meeting Objective
Final:
Student: Meeting Objective
Field Instructor: Exceeding Objective
COMMENTS – STUDENT:
Mid-Course:
I have had the opportunity to be involved in a non-profit
organization at its infancy, which has given me the opportunity to observe and
participate in developing organizational values, as well as assisting them in
becoming credible within the community of Morinville as well as within the
domestic violence community.
Final:
A significant learning for me has been to integrate
professional values into the foundation while at the same time maintaining the
foundation's grassroots. It has been important to find a balance between
professional values and ethics while at the same time ensuring that the
implementation of policies do not impede service delivery.
COMMENTS – FIELD INSTRUCTOR
Mid-Course:
Laura has played an important role in the development of the
organization's identity and with that she has helped identify the values and
ethics of which the organization will be founded upon. Good work.
Final:
Laura is fortunate enough to be with this agency in its infancy
stage. Often when we try to implement change when an agency is established and
run into difficulties. It is exciting to see an agency develop its core
mission/values from the ground up. Laura has been instrumental in ensuring that
they are reflective of core social work values and principles.
PRACTICE OBJECTIVE 2: Leading Others
- Learners demonstrate the ability to achieve organizational or community
- Develop a shared vision and act in a leadership role (lead, direct,
coordinate and/or organize others) within groups, teams, departments, divisions,
etc. to achieve organizational or community goals. - Develop, implement, analyze or evaluate a program, policy or project and
make recommendations for change, when appropriate. - Build effective working relationships, networks and partnerships with
individuals at all levels of the organization and/or community through
cooperation, collaboration and fostering the development of others
(coaching/mentoring). - Analyze power relationships within the organization and/or community and use
this knowledge to influence program/agency decision-making. - Make informed decisions and involve suitable stakeholders in the
process. - Communicate effectively orally and in writing.
- Apply leadership theories and research skills to guide practice.
goals through processes such as visioning, designing, planning, coordinating,
organizing and evaluating. Learners will be able to:
Leading Others: Student Learning Plan
Component of Practice Objective What do you want to learn?
Learning Activities How will you accomplish the learning?
Accountability How will you evaluate your learning?
Time Line By when will you accomplish this?
1. I will be helping the JMMF in transforming a shared vision into a viable
plan and to make recommendations.
Development of a strategic plan for the organization. Attendance of board
meetings, meeting with agency and community stakeholders
A draft of the strategic plan will be submitted for review for the SOWK 679
course. The strategic plan should enable JMMF to move forward in their plans to
open up a safe house and to present funders with a viable plan in which they can
invest. Feedback will be sought from board members in completing the final
draft.
2012/07/30
2. To learn how to Network and establish working relations will be key in this
project, as there are a number of stakeholders with whom we will need to
collaborate with.
I will meet with the Town's planning committee and with potential funders,
other stakeholders
I will be confident in my ability to represent the agency and to collaborate
with stakeholders in order for the project to move forward. The JMMF will be
successful in collaborating with stakeholders and have support form the Town and
several funders, at least one sustainable funder.
2012/10/31
3. To learn how to develop a model that will be used as basis for this shelter
by researching other shelters/ safe houses and learn how they implement their
programming
Agency visit to Sparrow's Hope, a shelter in the Westlock/ Barrhead area
that JMMF would like to use as a model for their shelter. I will also develop
some questions and call other shelters in the province.
I will be able to make recommendations to JMMF in terms of programming for
the safe house; presenting a model to the Board; documenting the information
received from other shelters using a methodical approach to documentation.
2012/07/30
4. I will learn about developing policy for a new initiative
I will research standards and policy for existing shelters and assist the
JMMF in beginning the process of developing policies for a Safe House. I will
also develop board policies for the foundation.
I will be able to make recommendations to JMMF in terms of policies for the
safe house and will discuss process of policy development with Derek,
2012/10/31
5. learn about the roles and responsibilities of board members
Doreen Slessor, Executive Director from SAIF society, will be doing a
presentation to the board to clarify their roles and responsibilities. I will
be in attendance. I will utilize learning opporutnities from SOWK 679 course
about governance and board effectivess, seek reading materials. I will be
developing board policies and board roles and responsibilities
I will be able to identify the roles and responsibilities of board members
and have a better understanding of organizational structure, and incorporate the
learnings into the strategic plan.
2012/07/30
EVALUATION OF PRACTICE OBJECTIVE 2: LEADING OTHERS
Overall, the student’s performance indicates attainment of
the knowledge and skills associated with the Leading Others objective
at the following level:
Mid-Course:
Student: Meeting Objective
Field Instructor: Meeting Objective
Final:
Student: Meeting Objective
Field Instructor: Exceeding Objective
COMMENTS – STUDENT:
Mid-Course:
The development of the strategic plan and board policy have
been the two primary projects that has assisted with the development of the
organizational identity. The focus has been on finding a "niche" for the
foundation and identifying gaps in services for victims of domestic violence in
our community. I have had the opportunity to present new and innovative ideas
for programming to the board, including the student engagement opportunities in
schools to put a face to domestic violence, and offering free seminars on self
defense to victims as a way to enhance self esteem.
Final:
I have focused on integrating theory with practice during this
portion of the practicum which has been helpful in terms of figuring out what is
important for me to remember as I aspire to be a leader. This practicum has
greatly assisted in developing my practice framework.
COMMENTS – FIELD INSTRUCTOR
Mid-Course:
We have had very good discussions about practice regarding the
external roles of the organization and the role of social work in those roles.
There are no issues in this regard.
Final:
Again, we have had good discussion regarding role clarification
and sometimes working within a multi-disciplinary team and the challenges that
may bring. No issues in this
area.
PRACTICE OBJECTIVE 3: Facilitating Change
- Learners demonstrate the ability to think critically and strategically,
- Identify how the various elements of the organization and its environment
interconnect to achieve staff and client goals (systems thinking). - Analyze and assess the need for change within the organization or
community. - Implement and manage change within the organization or community to be
responsive to perceived needs. - Analyze the impact of change on individuals and groups within the
organization or community. - Make recommendations for the sustainability of change.
- Think creatively (e.g., beyond status quo) when addressing organizational or
community issues. - Deal effectively with conflict situations.
applying systems thinking to the analysis of an organization and its
environment, and assessing the need for and implementing change, when
appropriate. Learners will be able to:
Facilitating Change: Student Learning Plan
Component of Practice Objective What do you want to learn?
Learning Activities How will you accomplish the learning?
Accountability How will you evaluate your learning?
Time Line By when will you accomplish this?
1. Learn how to develop strategies that will enable a new initiative to be
accepted/developed
A safe house is a new initiative within the community and is in response to
a perceived need. I will be advocating for the safe house and assisting the
organization in overcoming any barriers that may present itself.
I will be able to identify the barriers we have encountered and how we
overcame them.
2012/12/06
2. I will be supporting the foundation in addressing systemic issues
I will be ensuring they are abiding by all of the necessary licensing
requirements and town by-laws.
I will be able to identify what the licensing requirements are and relevant
by-laws.
2012/09/28
EVALUATION OF PRACTICE OBJECTIVE 3: FACILITATING CHANGE
Overall, the student’s performance indicates attainment of
the knowledge and skills associated with the Facilitating Change
objective at the following level:
Mid-Course:
Student: Meeting Objective
Field Instructor: Meeting Objective
Final:
Student: Meeting Objective
Field Instructor: Exceeding Objective
COMMENTS – STUDENT:
Mid-Course:
I have challenged myself to think outside the box in terms of
the safe house initiative, in trying to figure out how we can best serve our
community using the resources that we have, and taking into consideration the
current political climate and "Housing First" model that the government is
using. Part of this challenge has been to identify what is and isn't working in
traditional shelters. One of the issues is that women cannot be expected to
heal from abuse in an institutionalized, shared accommodation environment. Also,
women in our rural community do not want to go to an urban setting for
shelter.
Final:
Attending the Diverse Voices domestic violence conference
helped me to further assess the direction of the foundation and what existing
ideas and services can be implemented now or in the future, such as partnerships
with police and crown prosecutors.
COMMENTS – FIELD INSTRUCTOR
Mid-Course:
Good discussion about rural vs. urban social work and as well
the Aboriginal population that maybe served by this organization and whether or
not they are prepared for this client base.
Final:
Laura's confidence has grown significantly in tis area of
change management. She is able to confidently bring back information to the
Board and provide both sides to an issue and offer possible solutions or the
foundation of a god discussion. It is this writer's hope that this knowledge is
also transferable to her current job where change is exploding. I encourage
Laura to try and take a leadership role in this area when
possible.
PRACTICE OBJECTIVE 4: Managing Resources
- Learners demonstrate the ability to manage a project from beginning to end,
- Identify and implement the major components of managing a project from
beginning to end (goals, timelines, scope, resources, etc.). - Identify and/or manage the range of resources needed for a project/agency
program, such as: - a. financial resources (e.g., grants, budget).
- b. human resources (e.g., supervision, team development, community
involvement or consultation, recruitment, performance management). - c. technological resources.
- Identify the project’s constraints or limitations (e.g., scope, timelines,
budget, optimization of resources).
including managing the resources necessary to achieve project, organizational or
community goals. Learners will be able to:
Managing Resources: Student Learning Plan
Component of Practice Objective What do you want to learn?
Learning Activities How will you accomplish the learning?
Accountability How will you evaluate your learning?
Time Line By when will you accomplish this?
1. I will be managing a project from beginning to end. Part of the strategic
plan will be to identify the needed resources to initiate and sustain the
project.
A SWOT analysis will be included in the strategic plan, review of the
estimated costs and budgeting. Find out what start-up costs will look like.
The strategic plan will clearly identify the needed resources for start-up
and sustainability.
2012/06/10
2. I will seek out additional funding sources for the project
I will research available grants, complete a funding proposal, work with
JMMF in approaching local businesses. I will assist the foundation in event
planning and take on a leadership role in at least one fundraising event.
The necessary resources will be in place in order to start-up the safe
house.
2012/10/31
3. I will learn more about fundraising
Doreen Slessor, Executive Director of SAIF society, will be conducting a
"Fundraising 101" workshop for the board members of JMMF. I will be attending
the workshop.
I will be able to demonstrate my learnings of fundraising into practice.
2012/07/30
4. I will learn how to lead a fundraising initiative
I will be organizing an annual memorial run, which will be a major
fundraising event for the JMMF. I will be required to get sponsorship from
local businesses and to collaborate with the Town of Morinville to ensure that
all necessary permits are obtained.
planning process goes smoothly and the event is a success in terms of
participation and funds raised
2012/12/01
EVALUATION OF PRACTICE OBJECTIVE 4: MANAGING RESOURCES
Overall, the student’s performance indicates attainment of
the knowledge and skills associated with the Managing Resources
objective at the following level:
Mid-Course:
Student: Meeting Objective
Field Instructor: Meeting Objective
Final:
Student:Meeting Objective
Field Instructor: Exceeding Objective
COMMENTS – STUDENT:
Mid-Course:
In organizing the First Annual Jessica Martel Memorial Run, I
am learning how to manage a project from beginning to end, and learning about
the need to prioritize goals when organizing such an event (fundraising versus
community awareness. I am also getting the opportunity to explore special
events grants.
Final:
I completed a grant application for the First Annual Jessica
Martel Memorial Run, and developed a budget for the event. I am on the Grants
Committee and compiled a list of available grants. I have also done some
research around further educating myself on fundraising and have decided to
pursue a certificate in fundraising after the completion of my MSW. I have
learned that fund development is an area of interest for me and would like to
further explore beyond my practicum.
COMMENTS – FIELD INSTRUCTOR
Mid-Course:
Laura is quickly learning that the role of social worker may
also include working in fund development as well as quality assurance. It is
challenging and Laura is doing a good job at helping the agency understand those
dual type roles.
Final:
Laura has been able to immerse herself in the area of fund
development and the art of "asking". Further training in this area would assist
her in solidifying her skills. Well
done!
PRACTICE OBJECTIVE 5: Diversity, Oppression & Social Justice
- Learners demonstrate an appreciation and critical analysis of human
- Identify how personal identities, values, experiences, socialization,
attitudes, biases and patterned responses to human diversity intersect with
professional values and impact their leadership practice. - Describe how they, as social workers and leaders, show respect for and work
effectively with diverse individuals and populations (e.g., diversity of race,
class, gender, religion, culture, sexual orientation, age, ethnicity, national
origin, or ability). - Use an anti-oppressive lens to analyze agency/social policy with regard to
diversity, inclusion, oppression and social justice, and make recommendations
for change. - Identify systemic barriers in the organization and/or community that
perpetuate oppression and social injustice. - Discuss potential social action strategies.
- Articulate how they incorporate anti-oppressive frameworks, strategies and
skills in their leadership practice to value diversity, promote inclusion,
reduce oppression and advocate for organizational and/or social change.
diversity, the dynamics and intersections of oppression, and the implications of
social and economic injustice. They will demonstrate the ability to work
effectively with diverse individuals and groups within a leadership context
using an anti-oppressive framework, promote diversity-competent organizations
and practice, and advocate for change at individual, organizational and systemic
levels. Learners will be able to:
Diversity, Oppression & Social Justice: Student Learning Plan
Component of Practice Objective What do you want to learn?
Learning Activities How will you accomplish the learning?
Accountability How will you evaluate your learning?
Time Line By when will you accomplish this?
1. learn how to incorporate diverse needs into the design of the shelter. In
this practicum, I will need to recognize Morinville and area as a diverse
community and to gain an understanding of what the needs are.
Further exploration of the complex relationship between the Town of
Morinville, Sturgeon County, and the Alexander reserve, which is in close
proximity. If the safe house is to serve all of these populations, then we need
to ensure the programming addresses their needs. Program development will be
inclusive of these populations.
The safe house will be able to meet the needs of all the populations that it
will be serving.
2012/12/06
2. Learn how to apply an anti-oppressive lens when designing the shelter or its
policies
EVALUATION OF PRACTICE OBJECTIVE 5: DIVERSITY, OPPRESSION & SOCIAL JUSTICE
Overall, the student’s performance indicates attainment of
the knowledge and skills associated with the Diversity, Oppression &
Social Justice objective at the following level:
Mid-Course:
Student: Meeting Objective
Field Instructor: Exceeding Objective
Final:
Student: Meeting Objective
Field Instructor: Exceeding Objective
COMMENTS – STUDENT:
Mid-Course:
One of learnings has been how to implement a safe house
initiative while taking into consideration how to respect and restore the
dignity of victims of domestic violence as well as how to meet the needs of
victims coming from a variety of backgrounds.
Final:
Social Justice has been an integral part of my practice
framework . As it relates to my practicum, I have viewed my role as ensuring
that women and families leaving abusive situation have the opportunity to start
a new life. I am hoping that our upcoming course on social justice and
oppression will further assist me in my work with the Foundation.
COMMENTS – FIELD INSTRUCTOR
Mid-Course:
Laura is well apt to be able to ling theory on oppression to
practice. She is well versed in this and can articulate to different audiences
the impact that oppression has on practice. This is one of Laura' strongest
abilities observed this far.
Final:
Again, this is Laura's biggest strength. Our conversations
regarding oppression and how it is seen in this community as compared to other's
is impressive. Solid working knowledge of anti-oppressive practice and how the
agency needs to invest in this type of training for everyone
involved.
SUMMATIVE COMMENTS: MID-COURSE EVALUATION
Mid-Course Evaluation Comments - Student
Overall the practicum
is going well. I have had many opportunities for learning. This practicum has
given me the opportunity to learn about leadership in a small, non-profit
setting which is significantly different from my employment with the government.
The timing of the practicum was ideal as the newness of the organization has
enabled be to assist in developing their organizational values and identity,
program, policy and fund development. My focus will now be on incorporating
theory with practice through journaling and critical reflection.
Mid-Course Evaluation Comments - Field Instructor
Laura is doing
extremely well in her placement. The organization is lucky to have someone like
her at the infancy stage of development. She is able to complete research in a
thorough manner and is able to point out to the organization areas that require
further development. In addition she is able to offer suggestions for these
areas.
I am most impressed with her abilities to "think outside the
box" and be creative. She is very open to suggestions and able to bring this
back to the agency for discussion.
Laura self identified the need for
better skills in public speaking and has researched a few options to address
this. In addition we were able to find a resource to do some facilitation with
the board to finalize their mission statement.
Hopefully Laura will be
able to attend the peer review training as it would help her in the area of
quality assurance.
As I stated before the agency is fortunate to have
her on board!
Mid-Course Evaluation Comments - Faculty Liaison
Laura
completed her mid-term evaluation on September 26th and addressed all of the
learning objectives. She stated that her practicum was going well and that she
was having the opportunity to integrate theory with practice. She spoke of the
opportunity to work independently, be self-directed as she worked with this new
organization to set their vision, mandate and strategic plan. We discussed the
importance of this becoming ‘their tool’ and how she was helping them identify
the direction of the agency without imposing her own expectations.
Derek commented that the practicum was going well and that he was
encouraging the integration of theory with practice during supervision. He
pointed out how the strategic plan and accreditation standards incorporated the
identification of organizational values. Laura and Derek discussed her
leadership approach and some of the challenges within the organization regarding
collective vs. individual values and expectations for leadership. We talked
about the process of facilitating change, issues of sustainability and the
reality of the organizational context.
Derek provided feedback on
Laura’s ability to think critically and deal with setting realistic goals within
the current environment. Laura provided examples of how she approached the need
for change creatively, acknowledging the differing reactions to change. We also
discussed her learning around managing resources including a fund-raising event
and carrying out a SWOT analysis. The conversation ended with a discussion
about decisions regarding who the target population was and how to realistically
deal with issues of diversity and inclusion/eligibility while addressing the
needs of a specific community.
The next half of the practicum will focus
learning on:
• Getting some smaller programs off the ground (public
speaking; community partners)
• Journaling as a means to integrate theory
(particularly leadership theory)
• Accessing financial resources (eg.
)grants
• Peer review training
Well done, Laura. I look forward to
you contributions in the Integrative Seminars
MID-COURSE DETERMINATION
Completed requirements:
Yes
SUMMATIVE COMMENTS: FINAL EVALUATION
Final Evaluation Comments - Student
I am grateful for the
opportunities I have had with the Foundation and have recently accepted the role
of Vice President of the Board. Although I have completed my goals for
practicum, I plan on continuing my learnings through ongoing involvement with
the foundation.
Final Evaluation Comments - Field Instructor
Laura has proven that
she can be a leader in regards to this area of practice. As a Senior Manager in
her area of employment I am worried that she will soon leave us with all of this
new knowledge. Her knowledge of theory combined with an already solid practice
will ensure she has a future in management and leadership in organizations
addressing social justice.
Final Evaluation Comments - Faculty Liaison
Laura completed her final evaluation on Dec 5th and addressed all of the learning objectives. She
spoke about how this experience had increased
her confidence and
consolidated her social work and leadership values. Working with an
organization at its early stage of development enabled Laura to experience a
number of leadership opportunities such as: program development, policy,
communication, planning and mentoring. Derek provided Laura with feedback,
identifying her AOP knowledge as a key strength and how she had been able to
identify issues, think critically, suggest solutions and make decisions, taking
into consideration the ethics involved. We discussed the concept of change and
Derek challenged Laura to apply her knowledge of facilitating change when
working with current staff. In the future, Laura identified more public
speaking and a role in education as areas for further career development.
Well done, Laura, good luck with your future endeavours, particularly as
guest lecturer in Derek’s class!
Myra
FINAL DETERMINATION
Practicum complete: Yes