CARE is for everyone.

I started at the Ranch on February 7^th, so just like all of Ranch Ehrlo Society staff, I attended CARE training.

Each Ranch Ehrlo employee is required to complete 40 hours of CARE training, regardless of their role within the agency.

I was looking forward to it, as I thought it would give me an insight into the agency so I can write better stories for you. I was not disappointed.

Ranch Ehrlo is guided by the CARE model, which is a multilevel program aimed at improving services for youth and adults in care. Based on the six guiding principles (developmentally focused, family involved, relationship based, trauma informed, competence centred, and ecologically oriented) the CARE model is designed to significantly influence the way professionals work with participants.

The CARE model seeks to meet participants’ therapeutic needs as opposed to trying to simply control behaviour.

I gained a whole new perspective into how trauma can affect a person's entire existence including their world view, how they respond to different situations, and even how they think.

My CARE training classmate, Victoria El-Kelani, explained, “This training gives me better tools when I do go into homes and when I’m interacting with participants. It provides a foundation from which to build while using my own values and beliefs.”

She believes the information was relatable with real life experiences, and the course uses simplified language to ensure comprehension.

Andrew Laursen, another staff taking the training agreed.

“It’s a good course that explains why it’s essential for everyone to understand where the youth are coming from. I’ll be able to use what I’ve learned throughout my career,” he said.

Matt Yantz and Karin Duff were the educators. Karin explained that the CARE course is the theory behind the practice. It is the philosophy by which the Ranch operates.

Matt said, “(The class teaches us) how we can all walk in congruence with our unique abilities and personal values into the job.”

Indeed, the consensus is that the course provides everyone at the Ranch with a foundation on which to build.

Matt said that CARE runs deep with our mission, vision, and philosophy of how it relates to what Ranch Ehrlo is doing.

Karin thought the course work gives the opportunity for everybody to see the workings of the whole agency and understand the work they do affects other departments and vice versa.

Bobby Morgan, another classmate said that the course has provided him with better ways to communicate with the participants.

“I think the course will help me reach my ultimate goal which is to be a better direct care worker.”

I am not a direct care worker, but I think this course has provided me with a fundamental understanding of the framework of the Ranch, its employees, and participants.

I discovered new ways of understanding people, and as a result, become a better communicator. I can see why this course is required for every employee of the Ranch, whether they’re a direct care worker, administrator, property management worker, or accountant. I think that we appreciate how each of us contributes to the overall well-being of Ranch participants.