It’s a Heart Thing!
The Alabama Coalition for Culture Change is inspired by the dedicated and visionary work of the early culture change pioneers. Therefore, the vision, mission and values of the Alabama Coalition for Culture Change are closely aligned with and are adapted from those embraced by the Pioneer Network.
ACCC was founded in the fall of 2007. Our organization is made up of caregivers, providers, regulators, community leaders, families, and consumers. We recognize that culture change and transformation are not destinations, but a
journey; always a work in progress — We are always becoming!
Our Vision
Our Vision is an improved culture of aging, disability, health and wellness.
The Alabama Coalition for Culture Change is committed to the task of challenging present attitudes, perceptions and beliefs about aging, working for deep system change to support person-centered, life affirming, relationships that truly transcend the past and liberate elders of the future. Guided by Pioneer Network values and principles as the foundation for change, the Alabama Coalition for Culture Change recognizes that changing the culture of aging requires a deep, cleansing change in our elders’ attitude toward aging, a change in society’s attitude toward elders, a change in the attitudes and behaviors of those who support and provide care for our elders and a change in government policies and regulations. We envision a culture of aging where elders are surrounded by the comforts, pleasures and security of home living as a valued member of a community where they can continue to grow and contribute, and where life has meaning, joy and purpose.
Our Mission
The Mission of ACCC is to be a catalyst for positive change through collective effort by engaging, educating, and empowering individuals and organizations to promote meaningful quality of life for people receiving health care, long-term care or home and community based services.
To achieve this, we:
- Create communication, networking and learning opportunities
- Build and support relationships and community
- Identify and promote transformations in practice, services, public policy and research
- Develop and provide access to resources and leadership
Values and Principles
We commit to these values and principles of the Pioneer Network:
- Know each person
- Each person can and does make a difference
- Relationship is the fundamental building block of a transformed culture
- Respond to spirit as well as mind and body
- Risk taking is a normal part of life
- Put the person before the task
- All elders are entitled to self-determination wherever they live
- Community is the antidote to institutionalization
- Do unto others as you would have them do unto you
- Promote the growth and development of all
- Shape and use the potential of the environment in all its aspects: physical, organizational, psycho/social/spiritual
- Practice self-examination, searching for new creativity and opportunities for doing better
- Recognize that culture change and transformation are not destinations but a journey, always a work in progress.