Using Projects and Events to Build Interest and Shift Focus
Par Family Councils Ontario
A common statement we hear is “everything is going so well and I have no complaints. Why should I go to Family Council?” Family Councils are much more than just a forum for processing concerns; Councils also provide invaluable support for members, act as a conduit for information between the Home and families, and provide a forum for learning about issues that affect residents and their loved ones. Councils help build community and improve the quality of living in Long-Term Care. If you’re hearing that people are satisfied with the care of their loved one, that’s great! It can make recruiting for your Council a bit more challenging, but undertaking a project or event is a great way to build interest in your Council.
Consider a project or event such as a guest speaker educational event, Home improvement project, staff appreciation event, services expo, or new family welcome basket project. These are all examples of projects and events Family Councils have successfully undertaken. They’re all hard work and require your members to actively participate. They also demonstrate to residents, staff and families that your Council makes efforts to support families and residents in concrete ways. Having each Council member participate in planning and carrying out the event or project helps to form stronger connections between Council members, and between members and the Council. They also help demonstrate that you value the input and contributions of your members, thereby building a stronger, more effective Council. For ideas on projects or events your Council can take on, check out past issues of our newsletter!
Projects and events can also be useful in getting your group back on track. If you’ve recently experienced a change (e.g. a new Council leadership change or renovation in the Home), a setback (e.g. an initiative that didn’t go as well as expected), a challenge (e.g. a concern that was tough to resolve), an influx of new members, or are just feeling that the tone of your meetings is negative it can be difficult to focus and get everyone working well together. An event or project can help bring people together for a common purpose. Build teamwork and support by asking people to take on pieces of work necessary to complete the project or plan the event. If a Council member is good at making flyers or knows local retailers and can ask for gifts-in-kind, ask them to take on that piece of work. This shows that you value their skills, abilities and contributions.
Undertaking a project or event is a great way to strengthen your Council, sharpen your focus, and contribute to improving the quality of living of the residents of your Home. If you’re looking for someone concrete to do, are thinking of new ways to recruit members, want to get back on track, or simply want to try someone new, consider taking on a project or event this year! Projects and events are also great ways to mark Family Council Week! Check out the details, including this year’s theme.