Grafton in Action: March 2023

Grafton recently received its 3-year accreditation from CARF International. This certification, awarded after a multi-day site visit by independent surveyors, represents the highest level of accreditation that an organization like Grafton can receive. While we have been CARF accredited for many years, each time we receive this stamp of approval is a moment to celebrate and reflect on our progress as an organization.

The surveyors shared heartening feedback in their report, and I thought I would share some of it here. They described our team as “competent, caring, highly dedicated, passionate, and experienced,” and said the staff members they interviewed “consistently expressed joy and fulfillment in serving at Grafton.” As always, I could not be prouder of our amazing staff.

CARF’s experts also highlighted our multidisciplinary team approach. In fact, they said they were not aware of any other entity that still combines classic behaviorism with psychotherapeutic techniques. Though it’s considered cost prohibitive for many organizations, we know that the complexity of those we serve demands such an approach. We do it because it is the best way to help meet our clients’ needs, regardless of the cost.

The surveyors were additionally impressed by our commitment to health and safety. They appreciated how clean and well maintained our facilities are, the home-like environment in our group homes, and our dedication to ending restraint and seclusion through the use of Ukeru.

They even interviewed many of our clients and found that our residents show “a high level of contentment and achievement.” In one case, a former residential client who had attended three other treatment programs prior to Grafton said, “I would not be able to return home if I had not learned new coping skills.”

During this process, I asked the surveyors the one question I always ask: “Would you want your loved ones served at Grafton?” The unanimous answer was, “Absolutely!” That, alone, tells me everything I need to know.

To those of you who have championed Grafton over the years, I want to offer my heartfelt gratitude. We couldn’t reach our goals without the support of our community, client families, donors, and incredible team. Thank you for being with us on this journey.

Sincerely,

Jamie Stewart, Chief Executive Officer

Read the full newsletter here.