Strategic Plan

Sunshine Farm Strategic Policy 

Sunshine Farm, located in Kelowna, B.C., is dedicated to providing a supportive and educational environment for adults in the Community Living Sector. Our mission is to offer meaningful work and life experiences through hands on experience and learning, community engagement, and personal development. Sunshine Farm is a venue where educational opportunities and skill development is part of embracing all members of our society.
Sunshine Farm Setting
Sunshine Farm is Certified Organic (by NOOA) and uses this setting to offer Vocational Development Opportunities to Adults in the Community Living Sector.
The Farm is on 12.5 Acres of Class 1 Agricultural Land. Fully equipped with the tools, equipment, and staff to support a wide range of activities.
The main Resource Building (The Barn) has been specifically designed and built to be accessible. The front deck is shaded, with generous seating. The wide bus turnaround area allows for direct access to the bus from both the stairs and concrete wheelchair ramp. The Barn itself has an open concept for work areas, an adapted kitchen, accessible washroom, attached accessible greenhouse. The Barn also contains well stocked classroom space for art, cooking, exercise, music, etc. There are available computers for individual use.

Sunshine Farm is Certified Organic and uses this setting to offer Vocational Development Opportunities to Adults in the Community Living Sector.

Mission Statement and Company Description

Our mission is to provide a setting which provides choice, building self respect and skill development in areas of interest. The farm setting provides opportunity to explore various activities in a safe, supervised setting. The farm is fully equipped to explore diverse areas of interest.
Sunshine Farm is a privately run family business started back in 1987 by Jon and Sharon Alcock. Sunshine Farm is a venue where educational opportunities and skill development is a part of embracing all members of our society. Sunshine Farm is Certified Organic and uses this setting to offer Vocational Development Opportunities to Adults in the Community Living Sector.
The farm provides a mixed setting for hands on experience with a multitude of activities. We cater to a wide variety of interests such as cooking classes, music classes, literacy, computer, woodworking, greenhouse, equipment operation, etc..
The educational opportunities at the farm occur in the gardens, as well as in the various buildings (shop, barn, greenhouses, etc.). The setting is diverse, offering a chance to learn about equipment, woodworking, plants, seed collection, greenhouse work, harvesting, labelling, math skills, weighing, packaging, as well as the classes mentioned above.
Opportunities based on interest and choice is the foundation of our philosophy. Respecting the rights of the individual and building self respect.
These opportunities are funded by Community Living British Columbia.

Vision
Sunshine Farm envisions a community where individuals with diverse abilities are empowered to lead fulfilling and independent lives through meaningful work, personal development, and social integration. We strive for excellence in providing innovative, person-centered services that enhance the wellbeing and quality of life for all participants.

Expectation of Persons Served: We will use Input from Persons Served and will be influenced by the feedback and expectations of those participating at Sunshine Farm. This includes regular surveys and other forms of feedback collection to understand their needs and satisfaction levels.
Goal: Meet the objectives of persons served, gather ongoing feedback for ongoing improvement.

Expectations of other Stakeholders: We will consider the expectations of other stakeholders, including staff, community partners, and CLBC. This will be done through scheduled surveys, and meetings.
Goal: Meet the ongoing expectations of all stakeholders and gather feedback for ongoing improvement.

The Competitive Environment: Sunshine Farm works along side other agencies to facilitate the goals of the individuals attending. That being said it is important to strive to understand and keep abreast of trends in the field, and external factors that may affect Sunshine Farm.
Goal: Stay abreast of trends in Community Living, and potential changes in the community and political climate.

Financial Opportunities: Sunshine Farm will work towards financial growth, reducing dependence on limited funding sources.
Goal: Work towards ongoing funding opportunities, consider expansion of farm resources.

Financial Threats: Sunshine Farm will monitor and review, as part of its annual budgeting and financial planning, economic changes, Internal changes, competition, and overall market changes which may affect the financial stability of Sunshine Farm.
Goal: Be aware of financial threats, political challenges, and changes in the overall economy.

The Organizations Capabilities: We strive to recruit and maintain qualified staff, well maintained equipment, and workspaces. Regular reviews of supplies, equipment maintenance and staff qualifications must be performed.
Using a combination of Quickbooks, an independent bookkeeper, an annual audit by a Chartered accountant, we work towards financial competency. An annual budget with a monthly comparison will be done.
Goal: Semi annual review of staffing levels, monthly budget review, ongoing equipment maintenance.

Social Determinants of Health
Sunshine Farm is committed to incorporating the understanding of Social Determinants of health into our practices to enhance the quality of life and care for individuals with diversabilities. This includes addressing factors such as economic stability, education, transportation, social and community context, health and healthcare, and environment.
Utilize standardized tools and surveys to gather data on Social Determinants of Health.
Incorporate SDOH findings into individualized care plans. Develop interventions that address identified social determinants.
By addressing social determinants of health, Sunshine Farm aims to improve the overall well-being and outcomes for the people we serve.
Goal: Ensure accessibility to help and resources for those individuals in need of support. Develop an anonymous feedback system for individuals.

Demographics:
Kelowna has 97% majority of European descendants, with a three percent representation of other cultures. We strive to be inclusive of all individuals in our staffing and participants.
Goal: To include culture in cooking classes, art classes, and develop a small relevant library of resources.

Relationships with external stakeholders:
Homeshare providers, members of CLBC and the general Community are integral to the success and health of Sunshine Farm.
Goal: To pursue ongoing feedback from stakeholders, using surveys, phone calls, meetings, and an open door policy at Sunshine Farm.

The regulatory and legislative environment. Goal: To stay informed of, and compliance with the rules and regulations that apply to Sunshine Farm.

The use of Technology: Current technology at Sunshine Farm consists of computers, cell phones, software, payment and communication systems.
Goal: To upgrade aging computers in 2024, including printers.

Person Centered Philosophy
To ensure that all services and supports provided are designed and delivered in a manner that respects and responds to the unique needs, preferences and goals of each individual.
We believe that each person is unique and deserves to be treated with dignity, respect and compassion.
Our person-centered philosophy is rooted in the understanding that individuals are the experts in their own lives.
We are committed to empowering them to make informed decisions about their activities, and to actively participate in planning for their own personal development and goals.

Respect and dignity
Treat all individuals with the respect.
Goal: On an ongoing basis, honor all person’s personal values, beliefs, and cultural backgrounds.

Individualized planning
Recognize and support each person’s unique needs, preferences and goals.
Develop individualized plans that reflect the individual’s choices and aspirations.
Empowerment and Self Determination
Encourage and support individuals to take an active role in their planning and activities.
Goal: On an ongoing basis provide the necessary tools, resources and information to enable informed choices.

Holistic Approach
Address the whole person, including their physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs.
Goal: Integrate a variety of services and supports to enhance overall well-being.
Such as focus groups, one to one support, availability of staff.

Collaboration and Partnership
Foster a collaborative relationship between individuals, their families’ caregivers, and our staff.
Goal: Value and incorporate input from all stakeholders in the planning and delivery of services.
Via scheduled surveys, phone calls, in service meetings.

Continuous improvement.
Regularly evaluate and refine our practices to ensure they remain person centered.
Goal: Seek and incorporate feedback from individuals and their families to enhance service quality.
Use of surveys, analysis of feedback, planning and scheduled reviews of reports.

Implementation
Assessment and Planning
Conduct comprehensive assessments to understand each individuals needs, strengths and goals.
Collaborate with individuals and their families to develop tailored plans.

Training and development
Provide ongoing training for staff on person centred practices and principles.
Encourage professional development to enhance the skills and knowledge needed to support individuals effectively.

Communication and Feedback
Maintain open and transparent communication with individuals and their families.
Regularly solicit and act upon feedback to improve services and supports.

Environment and Culture
Create a welcoming and inclusive environment that promotes person-centred values.
Foster a culture o respect, empathy, and continuous learning within the organisation.

Conclusion
By embracing a person-centered philosophy, Sunshine Farm is dedicated to providing services that truly reflect the needs, preferences, and goals of the individuals we serve. This not only enhances the quality of service, but also empowers individuals to lead fulfilling and meaningful lives.

Reporting and Confidentiality.

Purpose
To establish clear guidelines for reporting and maintaining confidentiality to protect the privacy and dignity of individuals served by Sunshine Farm.

Reporting Procedures
1. Incident Reporting:
– All staff, volunteers, and participants are required to report any incidents, including accidents, injuries, or any other unusual occurrences, immediately to a designated supervisor.
– An incident report form must be completed as soon as possible, detailing the nature of the incident, individuals involved, and any immediate actions taken.
– The completed incident report will be reviewed by the management team to determine any necessary follow-up actions and ensure corrective measures are implemented to prevent future occurrences.

2. Confidential Reporting:
– Sunshine Farm provides a confidential mechanism for individuals to report concerns or complaints related to safety, care, or ethical issues without fear of retaliation.
– Reports can be made anonymously through a designated feedback box located prominently in the main room of the resource building.
– All reports will be reviewed promptly, and appropriate actions will be taken to address the concerns raised.

3. Mandatory Reporting:
– Staff are required to comply with all mandatory reporting laws, including reporting suspected abuse, neglect, or exploitation of vulnerable individuals to appropriate authorities.
– Training will be provided to all staff on recognizing signs of abuse and the proper procedures for mandatory reporting.

Confidentiality

1. Confidentiality of Personal Information:
– Sunshine Farm is committed to protecting the privacy of all individuals served. Personal information, including health records, will be kept confidential and shared only with authorized personnel on a need-to-know basis.
– All staff, volunteers, and contractors are required to sign a confidentiality agreement upon joining the organization, acknowledging their responsibility to maintain the privacy of individuals’ information.

2. Access to Information:
– Individuals served have the right to access their personal information and request corrections if necessary. Procedures will be in place to ensure timely and secure access to records upon request.
– Any disclosure of personal information to external parties will require the individual’s informed consent, except in situations where disclosure is mandated by law.

Data Security:
– Sunshine Farm implements data security measures to protect personal information from unauthorized access, alteration, or disclosure.
– Regular audits will be conducted to ensure compliance with data security policies and to identify and address potential vulnerabilities.

Training and Education
– All staff will receive at least annual training on the importance of confidentiality, the proper handling of personal information, and the reporting procedures.
– Educational materials will be provided to individuals served and their families to inform them of their rights regarding privacy and the reporting process.

Monitoring and Evaluation
– Sunshine Farm will conduct regular reviews of its reporting and confidentiality practices to work towards continuous improvement.
– Feedback from individuals served, staff, and other stakeholders will be solicited to identify areas for enhancement and to ensure the effectiveness of our policies.

Conclusion
By adhering to these reporting and confidentiality guidelines, Sunshine Farm demonstrates its commitment to maintaining a safe, respectful, and trustworthy environment for all individuals served.

Community
Community Engagement Strategy
At Sunshine Farm, we recognize the vital role that community engagement plays in promoting holistic well-being and fostering a sense of belonging among our participants. Our community engagement strategy is designed to create meaningful connections, foster social integration, and promote active participation both within and beyond our facility.

Local Partnerships We will establish and nurture partnerships with local businesses, organizations, and community groups to create opportunities for collaboration and mutual support. These partnerships will enable us to access additional resources, expand our service offerings, and enhance the overall experience for our participants.

Community Events We will organize at least an annual community event, to promote inclusivity and strengthen ties with the broader community. This event will provide opportunities for residents, families, staff, and community members to interact, share experiences, and build lasting relationships.

Outreach and Advocacy We will actively engage in outreach efforts to raise awareness about the unique needs and contributions of individuals with diverse abilities within the community. Through educational initiatives, advocacy campaigns, and participation in community forums, we will strive to promote understanding, acceptance, and support for our residents and their families.

Evaluation and Continuous Improvement
We are committed to ongoing evaluation and continuous improvement of our community engagement efforts. Through regular feedback mechanisms, stakeholder surveys, and performance evaluations, we will assess the effectiveness of our initiatives and identify areas for enhancement. By staying responsive to the evolving needs and preferences of our residents and the broader community, we will ensure that Sunshine Farm remains a vibrant and inclusive hub of community life.

Social Determinants of Health
Sunshine Farm is committed to incorporating the understanding of Social Determinants of health into our practices to enhance the quality of life and care for individuals with diversabilities. This includes addressing factors such as economic stability, education, social and community context, health and healthcare, and environment.
Assess and identify:
Utilize standardized tools and surveys to gather data on Social Determinants of Health.
Incorporate SDOH findings into individualized care plans. Develop interventions that address identified social determinants.
By addressing social determinants of health, Sunshine Farm aims to improve the overall well-being and outcomes for the people we serve.

Financial Management.
Sunshine Farm is committed to maintaining sound financial management practices to ensure long-term sustainability and the ability to effectively serve our community. Our financial management strategy focuses on transparency, accountability, and strategic planning to support our mission and goals.

Budgeting and Forecasting: We will implement a robust budgeting process that includes detailed forecasting to anticipate future financial needs and challenges. This will include monthly reviews and adjustments to ensure alignment with our strategic goals and changing circumstances.

Diversified Funding Sources To enhance financial stability, we will pursue a diversified funding strategy that includes sales, , fundraising events, and partnerships with local businesses and organizations. This approach will reduce reliance on any single funding source and increase our financial resilience.

Expense Management We will enforce stringent expense management practices to maximize efficiency and ensure that funds are used effectively to support our programs and services. This includes regular audits, cost-benefit analyses, and the adoption of best practices in procurement and resource allocation.

Financial Reporting We are committed to transparency in our financial operations. We will produce regular, detailed financial reports that provide insights into our financial health and performance. These reports will be available go stakeholders, including staff, board members, and community partners, to foster trust and accountability.

Risk Management We will develop and maintain a comprehensive risk management plan to identify, assess, and mitigate financial risks. This plan will include strategies for managing cash flow, investments, and unforeseen financial challenges, ensuring that Sunshine Farm remains resilient in the face of potential disruptions.

Financial Evaluation and Continuous Improvement
Sunshine Farm will continuously evaluate our financial management practices to ensure they meet the highest standards of accountability and effectiveness. Through regular internal reviews, stakeholder feedback, and adherence to sound financial practices, we will identify opportunities for improvement and implement necessary changes to enhance our financial management processes.

By prioritizing strong financial management, Sunshine Farm will ensure that we have the resources necessary to sustain our programs, support our residents, and achieve our mission of fostering community and well-being.

Safety

At Sunshine Farm, ensuring the safety of our residents, staff, and visitors is a top priority. Our safety strategy is designed to create a secure and healthy environment through comprehensive policies, proactive measures, and continuous improvement.

Key Objectives

Comprehensive Safety Policies We will maintain and regularly update safety policies and covering emergency preparedness, fire safety, infection control, and workplace safety.

Training and Education All staff members will receive ongoing safety training, including regular drills and updates on best practices, ensuring they are prepared to identify and respond to potential hazards.

Emergency Preparedness A robust emergency preparedness plan will outline clear protocols for various situations such as natural disasters, medical emergencies, and security threats. This plan will be regularly reviewed and updated.

Safety Inspections and Audits Regular safety inspections and audits will be conducted to identify and address potential risks promptly. Documentation and corrective actions will ensure a continuously safe environment.

Incident Reporting and Analysis A systematic incident reporting and analysis process will be in place to monitor and learn from safety-related incidents. Thorough investigation and review of incidents will help prevent future occurrences.

Sunshine Farm is dedicated to continuously evaluating and improving our safety practices. Regular assessments and stakeholder feedback will guide enhancements to ensure we maintain the highest standards of safety and well-being.

In conclusion
Evaluation and Continuous Improvement
We are committed to ongoing evaluation and continuous improvement. Through regular feedback mechanisms, stakeholder surveys, and performance evaluations, we will assess the effectiveness of our initiatives and identify areas for enhancement. By identifying areas where we can strive towards ongoing improvement and providing excellent services to the individuals attending Sunshine Farm.

Actions to be taken:

– Meet the ongoing expectations of all stakeholders and gather feedback for ongoing improvement.
– Stay abreast of trends in Community Living, and potential changes in the community and political climate.
– Look for ongoing funding opportunities, consider expansion of farm resources.
– Monitor financial threats, political challenges, and changes in the overall economy.
– Semi annual review of staffing levels, monthly budget review, ongoing equipment maintenance.
– Semi Annual review of accessibility and resources for those individuals in need of support.
– Develop an anonymous feedback system for individuals and stakeholders.
– Include culture in cooking classes, art classes, and develop a small relevant library of resources.
– Pursue ongoing feedback from stakeholders, using surveys, phone calls, meetings, and an open-door policy
at Sunshine Farm.
– Stay informed of, and compliance with the rules and regulations that apply to Sunshine Farm.
– Upgrade aging computers in 2024, including printers.
– On an ongoing basis, honor all person’s personal values, beliefs, and cultural backgrounds.
– On an ongoing basis provide the necessary tools, resources and information to enable informed choices.
– Integrate a variety of services and supports to enhance overall well-being.
Such as focus groups, one to one support, availability of staff.
– Value and incorporate input from all stakeholders in the planning and delivery of services.
Via scheduled surveys, phone calls, in service meetings.

Strengths
Weaknesses
Opportunities
Threats

Strengths:

– Strong commitment to a person-centered philosophy.
-Unique well equipped farm setting.
-Certified Organic setting.
-Part of a safe agricultural community.
– Experienced and dedicated staff.
-Skilled staff in areas such as mechanics, carpentry, agriculture, art, and sign language.
– Established risk management and strategic plans.
– Diverse and unique educational and hands on opportunities.

Weaknesses:
-Not accessible by regular bus routes.
– Limited resources for expansion.
– Challenges in finding and maintaining up-to-date staff training.
– Potential gaps in technology adoption.

Opportunities:
– Expansion of community partnerships.
– Implementation of new technologies for better service delivery.
– Increased funding opportunities for educational programs.
-increase price of seed packages to increase revenue.

Threats:
– Economic fluctuations affecting funding.
-Environmental challenges effecting farm income.
– Changes in CARF standards requiring frequent updates.
– Potential competition from other educational and community services.

Sunshine Farm is unique in the diverse opportunities and choices offered to individuals attending.
The opportunities to learn to drive equipment, work in greenhouses, learn mechanics and woodworking along with
Art and cooking classes are unique to Sunshine Farm.

Developed by

Sharon Alcock
June 2024
Updated October 1, 2024