1.A.1.b. Vision

Rule

A vision statement that is consistent with NARR’s core principles.

Levels

Guidance

Whereas the mission describes the who, what and how of an organization, the vision statement describes what success will look and feel like when the mission or long-term goals have been achieved. It is meant to be inspirational or aspirational and looks towards an idealistic future. The rule requires the vision statement to be “consistent” with NARR’s core principles. In other words, the vision must be compatible or in agreement with the principles. For example:

• “Everyone seeking recovery has timely access to quality support services” is very aspirational and compatible with NARR’s core principles.

• “Addicts are institutionalized until they pay their debt to society”, reflects a War On Drugs policy that is NOT consistent with NARR’s core principles.

Remember, the vision is meant to guide decision making and must be shared with various decision makers (e.g, governance body, administrators, direct support staff, residents, and/or the public).

As a point of reference, NARR’s Core Principles include:

• Operate with integrity

• Uphold residents’ rights

• Create a culture of empowerment where residents engage in governance and leadership

• Develop staff abilities to apply the social model

• Provide a home-like environment

• Promote a safe and healthy environment

• Facilitate active recovery and recovery community engagement

• Model prosocial behaviors and relationship enhancement skills

• Cultivate the resident’s sense of belonging and responsibility for community

• Be a good neighbor

Evaluation

• Is there an inspirational or aspirational statement that describes long-term desires or vision? If “yes”, is it consistent with NARR’s core principles?

• Is there evidence that the vision is shared with decision makers (e.g. staff or resident leadership) to guide them? In the context of the standard,

Evidence

A written submission of the vision statement as well as policies and procedures that ensure that it is shared in documents written for specific decision makers:

• Governing body (e.g., bylaws, strategic plan)

• Administrative staff (e.g., policy and procedure manual)

• Direct support staff (e.g., staff handbook, job descriptions)

• Residents (e.g., resident agreement, resident handbook, community board)

• Public (e.g., website, marketing)

References

• NARR Standard 3.0

• NARR Standard 3.0 Compendium

• Help writing a vision statement

• How is this rule relevant to my accreditation application?