Annual Report 2004 Front row: Charlotte Cooper (Secretary), Bonita Decaire, Emily Drzymala (President), Anne-Marie McLaughlin Middle Row: Guy Quenneville, Brenda Gladue, Richard Gregory (Treasurer), Linda Golding, Sandi Sherman (Vice-President), Richard Shelson Back Row: Lynne Davies (Public Member), Mike Dickinson (Registration Co-chair), Edward Sandberg (Competence Co-chair), Ralph Westwood (Public Member) Missing: Vince Steinhauer and Bill Donahue (Public Members), Jake Kuiken (CASW), Janet Lockington (Clinical), John Mould (Professional Social Work Education Board), Mari Jo Vanidour (Aboriginal) Organizational Structure The ACSW is governed by a Council that includes 10 elected members, four public members, a past president and the chairs of the Aboriginal Social Work Advisory Committee, Clinical Committee, Competence Committee, Professional Social Work Education Board and Registration Committee. Following the Annual General Meeting of March 19, 2004 the members of Council were:
Executive: Public Members: ACSW Staff, 2004 Emily Drzymala, President Lynne Davies Rod Adachi (Executive Director & Registrar) Sandi Sherman, Vice-President Bill Donahue Alison MacDonald (Associate Registrar) Charlotte Cooper, Secretary Vince Steinhauer Elaine Paras (Professional Affairs) Richard Gregory, Treasurer Ralph Westwood Jessica Smith (Research Coordinator) Members: Regulatory Committee Gladys Smecko (Finance and Administration) Bonita Decaire Representatives: Brenda Gross (Membership Services) Brenda Gladue Janet Lockington, Clinical Florence Reinhart (Administrative Support) Linda Golding Edward Sandberg, Competence Monica Vasconez (Membership Services) Anne-Marie McLaughlin John Mould (Professional Social Guy Quenneville Work Education Board) Special thanks to Jennifer Catt who ably Richard Shelson Bill Cunes and Kim Zapf, assisted membership services since mid year. CASW Board representative: Registration Jake Kuiken Advisory to Council: Mari Jo Vanidour, Aboriginal
2 2004 ANNUAL REPORT
Overview The appointment of three new public members to council in 2004 injected new perspectives and boosted the range of experience brought to the year’s meetings.
The fall Council retreat was an important opportunity to improve overall ACSW operations through proposed changes to organizational structure. Council’s adoption of the Influence Social Policy and Development (ISPAD) model directed much of the year’s engagement with a variety of stakeholders around common concerns. One example of note was ACSW’s partnership in Public Interest Alberta, an organization representing a new brand of advocacy and collaboration that helped raise a louder voice for social change during the Alberta provincial election. ACSW President Emily Drzymala signs on to Public Interest Alberta’s “A Fair Deal for Alberta Families” campaign at an Oct. 21 press conference. ACSW was part of PIA’s pre-election call on the government and all election candidates, to commit to The array of initiatives and events important issues in the areas of poverty, health care, education, the environment undertaken in 2004 detailed in the and support for farm families. pages of this report help complete the picture of ACSW in a year of diligent attention to ongoing implementation of the Health Professions Act and to the continued support of our membership and the Albertans they serve.
3 President • Establishment of relationships with new provincial ministers and appointed government officials in Children’s Services, Human Resources and Employment, Learning and Health and Wellness. Emily • A move to establish an inter-provincial Agreement Drzymala on Internal Trade. Presidents of provincial MSW, PhD (Educ), RSW regulatory bodies have been working together to spell out conditions for the registering of social workers moving between provinces and AS I REFLECT ON THE END OF MY SECOND YEAR AS territories. President of the Alberta College of Social Workers, I • The ISPAD (Influencing Social Policy and acknowledge accomplishments of the past year as well Development) model of operation is gently but as many works still in progress. We have just completed indelibly percolating throughout our membership our second year under the Health Professions Act. as well as in our external relationships. In 2003, ACSW was preoccupied establishing an • Ongoing monitoring of the Continuing Competence infrastructure that would comply with the new procedures, providers and requirements. regulation. In 2004 activities became more balanced between regulatory functions and membership and An action plan developed by Council at its fall professional affairs activities. retreat is used as a tool to continually update its members on all these initiatives. A summary of Council’s accomplishments: •A welcome and orientation for three new public “I offer congratulations to all social workers in members: Lynne Davies, Ralph Westwood and the province of Alberta. You maintain social Bill Donahue. Long-time public member Vince work practice in the face of public policies that Steinhauer was reinstated as our fourth public contradict social work values. Our strength member. lies in our unity in articulating our values both •Approval of candidacy status for the social work diploma program at Northern Lakes College in within and external to our profession.” Slave Lake. •Approval of a revised job description for the As I vacate my term of office as President, I would Executive Director. like to leave a wish list for the next term of office. A •Establishment of a standing Communication member database would be a great tool for rapidly Committee and expansion of the mandate of mobilizing and informing members about social policy our Nominations committee to become the events and issues. A data collection system for monthly Nominations and Recruitment Committee. reports on ACSW activities, including types of activities •Formalization of our relationship with other and volunteer hours would also support accountability professional organizations and public service and provide members with self and mutual respect consumer groups in October 2004, via the new for our work. Council approval of a formal policy for Public Interest Alberta organization. remuneration for the President would benefit ACSW by attracting potential candidates from the entire Works in progress include: membership. Inclusion of Council’s Action Plan on the • Development of a clear statement regarding ACSW website would keep members better informed. ACSW’s role in labor disputes.
4 2004 ANNUAL REPORT
Executive Director & Registrar IN 2004, THE ALBERTA COLLEGE OF SOCIAL WORKERS spent significant effort to implement the regulatory requirements of the Health Professions Act. The collection of information for continuing competence activities added to the work of processing quarterly renewals. Time and resources spent on the member Rod Adachi register pointed to the need to improve the database MSW, RSW in the next year. By the end of the year, the number of registered members totaled 5,431—an increase of 38 RSWs from including the National Anti-Poverty Organization, December 31, 2003. This net increase of 0.7 per cent the Campaign 2000 Alberta initiative, the Edmonton does not reflect the amount of activity required to Quality of Life Stakeholders Consultation and the process 5,400 renewals, 660 new applicants, 490 Edmonton Inclusive Cities consultation. We continued cancellations, 158 re-instatements and 107 new to support the effective integration of mental health student members. services with regional health authorities through In Fall 2004, Council reviewed the ACSW its involvement with the Alberta Alliance on Mental organizational structure and made suggestions for Illness and Mental Health. ACSW also supported the improvement. The first gathering of Area Coordinators establishment of Public Interest Alberta (PIA) in 2004 from across the province took place. Another first and contributed fact sheets on AISH, Alberta Works was the establishment of the ACSW Bursary Fund that and Minimum Wage for the PIA website during the awarded $1,000 each to five social work students. provincial election. Issues faced by social workers in Participation in the Annual General Meeting of the health settings prompted meetings with the Health Canadian Association of Social Workers (CASW) in Sciences Association of Alberta (HSAA) to establish Saskatoon was one of many meetings throughout ongoing dialogue and to relay accurate information. the year involving provincial presidents, provincial I would like to thank all the members of Council executive directors and provincial registrars. and in particular our new public members for their ACSW hosted the Spring Education Meeting of the work in 2004. I would also like to acknowledge Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) in Calgary, the contributions of all of the members of ACSW’s regulatory committees for assisting with the “Although ACSW membership has stabilized, it challenges of establishing sound policies and should be noted that 32.8 per cent of RSWs are procedures. Much appreciation and gratitude is age 51 and over. New registrants will be needed extended to all staff for their diligence and to members who volunteered and participated in ACSW to maintain membership numbers.” events and activities. several Council members participated in ASWB Board Training sessions and ACSW representatives attended the ASWB Fall Annual Meeting in Virginia. In 2004 ACSW engaged in a number of initiatives to influence social policy. ACSW participated in consultations about child welfare legislation and the new Alberta Works program, in an election year. We discussed poverty issues with a variety of groups
5 associate registrar
Associate Registrar
Case Type of Outcome/Date Number Complaint Action Concluded
License Cancelled with conditions, Appealed, 01.15 Profess ional misconduct Hearing. decision upheld September 30, 2004 Alison MacDonald December 2-3, 2004, MSW, RSW 02.2 Unskilled practice Hearing scheduled January 10- 14, 2005
Conditions on practice 03.4 Professional misconduct Hearing May 18, 2004 and other requirements AS THE CHART INDICATES, 2004 HAS BEEN A BUSY YEAR FOR professional discipline. The 19 complaints received is Dismissed, appeal held 03.5 Unskilled practice February 20, 2004, March 31, 2004 the highest number in our history, but proportionately Dismissal upheld based on membership it’s not as high as 2001. At the 03.7 Professional misconduct Dismissed March 2, 2004 conclusion of case #02.2, all matters outstanding Hearing August 24, Conditions on practice under the Social Work Profession Act will be concluded. 03.8 Professional misconduct 2004 and other requirements Under the Health Professions Act there is much more 03.9 Professional misconduct Dismissed July 3, 2004 flexibility for responding to complaints. The majority Conditions on practice of cases that do have a finding are settled by a 03.10 Professional misconduct Hearing June 3, 2004 and other requirements Consent Agreement in which the social worker accepts 04.1 Professional misconduct Dismissed December 15, 2004 responsibility for errors in practice and works to ensure 04.2 Professional misconduct No jurisdiction February 28, 2004 they are not repeated. Matter referred to We had a new experience in 2004, when a person 04.3 Fraud RCMP June 15, 2004 with no social work education forged an RSW certificate Referred under HPA Practice currently under in order to obtain employment. The matter came to 04.4 Impaired professional section 118 suspension light when this individual was found to be practising 04.5 Professional misconduct Dismissed September 30, 2004 in an unethical manner and information was provided 04.6 Professional misconduct Dismissed December 15, 2004 to the RCMP who were pursuing other criminal matters
04.7 Professional misconduct Dismissed December 15, 2004 with this person. While ACSW has no jurisdiction over people who are not registered social workers, this 04.8 Professional misconduct Dismissed August 15, 2004 should serve as a reminder to employers to check the 04.9 Professional misconduct Dismissed December 15, 2004 registration status of employees and new hires directly 04.10 Professional misconduct Dismissed December 15, 2004 with the ACSW. 04.11 Unskilled practice Ongoing Training for Discipline Committee members was 04.12 Professional misconduct Dismissed November 15, 2004 conducted in January 2004 with the assistance of 04.13 Professional misconduct Dismissed December 15, 2004 Elaine Spencer, an ACSW investigator. Several new
04.14 Professional misconduct Ongoing members were added to the roster: Donna Hamar, Randy Harris, Patrick Hirschi, Susan MacDonald, Gerry Hearing to be 04.15 Professional misconduct scheduled Mertick, Sandra Prokopiw, Aranka Rosettis, Debra 04.16 Professional misconduct Dismissed December 15, 2004 Samek, Lori Sigurdson, Chris Sunderland, Mila Wendt, and Jane Wiebe. One committee member, Dr. Margaret 04.17 Professional misconduct Dismissed December 31, 2004 (Peggy) Rodway, resigned in 2004. We appreciate the 04.18 Professional misconduct Dismissed December 31, 2004 time she dedicated to the ACSW over the years. Hearing to be 04.19 Professional misconduct scheduled
6 2004 ANNUAL REPORT professional affairs
Professional Affairs MY PRIMARY AGENDA IN 2004 WAS THE PROMOTION OF to members. Some of these included Lethbridge’s our profession. Thanks to the support of many active, involved members real progress was achieved. Part of the challenge was to promote a consistent professional identity within diverse fields of practice and to present cohesive public messages that commend the Elaine Paras value-added aspects of our work. ACSW continued to MSW, RSW collaborate with community agencies and participate in a wide range of educational programs. Our efforts to generate public understanding of what in the world to members. Some of these included Lethbridge’s social workers do took many forms. Still we realize that Social Work Professional Development Partnership, it is members who best influence public perceptions of Red Deer’s sixth Annual Summer Institute, Calgary’s social work by striving to do excellent work every day. May 6th learning event, six ethics workshops and Celebrating Social Work’s Foundation and Future, several writing workshops. The area co-ordinators our Annual Conference held March 18-20, 2004 at also assist by organizing member gatherings, holiday Calgary’s Hyatt Regency Hotel, set a standard for socials and Social Work Week activities. They are our voice to local members. In recognition, the first area “The first area co-ordinator retreat was held co-ordinator retreat was held Oct. 21-22, involving 24 Oct. 21-22, involving 24 members in the members in the opportunity to learn, network, plan opportunity to learn, network, plan and and appreciate their role. There are now 14 areas of the province actively represented on behalf of ACSW. Lac La appreciate their role.” Biche is new this year and two new representatives are pending. ACSW is seeking members willing to volunteer organization, programming and registration – more in this capacity. than 750 attended and enjoyed themselves. Though Changes in my role occurred as responsibility for the workload was great, Conference co-chairs Carolyn five membership committees was transferred to new Preston, Jacquie Keller, David Flux, an event planner staff member Jessica Smith. The initiatives of the and enthusiastic volunteers had the thrill of seeing the Retired Social Workers, the Advocate Editorial Board event succeed beyond expectation. Hats off! and ACSW website remain under the Professional National Social Work Week was celebrated March Affairs umbrella. We are in the middle of upgrades to 21-27, 2004. The three-year theme, Social Work for the website to better serve our membership and hope Social Justice, got a new visual in the well-received to launch in mid-2005. ‘baby birds’ poster. Members took tremendous effort to Thank you to all who assisted in membership creatively profile their roles within their communities. activities and helped me promote ACSW and our Some took time to laugh, socialize and nurture profession. themselves as colleagues. The largest public event was Calgary’s “Pulse of Social Work”, where eight social workers and one group received awards and $500 cash prizes. We appreciate all the efforts of members and their employers toward the recognition, support and celebration of social work in community life. Local area co-ordinator activities increased, in helping make Continuing Competency events available
7 research coordinator
Research Coordinator Networking Other important aspects of the research coordinator position include making connections with various stakeholder groups working throughout the province on similar issues. The ACSW has continued Jessica Smith to participate in conferences, meetings and joint MSW, RSW efforts on social policy issues with groups including: the Edmonton Social Planning Council, the Parkland Institute, Public Interest Alberta, Friends of Medicare, THIS HAS BEEN AN IMPORTANT YEAR FOR DEFINING the Alberta Alliance on Mental Illness and Mental the roles and responsibilities of the new Research Health, the Quality of Life Commission, the Alberta Co-ordinator position. Some of the tasks of the job Federation of Labor, the Alberta Teachers Association include: the dissemination of solid and timely research and the Alberta Disabilities Forum to name a few. on a number of social issues, networking with various stakeholder groups across the province and working ACSW Membership Interest Groups with the membership interest committees to advocate ACSW membership interest groups across the for stronger policies in support of good social work province include: Children’s issues (Edmonton, practice and improved program/service delivery for the Calgary, and Lethbridge/Medicine Hat - no longer people we serve. active); Health (Edmonton & region); Gerontology (Edmonton). Each committee has engaged in activities Research at different levels to address workplace conditions, Over the past year, I have been involved in a discuss concerns about organizational or governmental number of research activities including: collecting policies and develop advocacy strategies to address and disseminating information around the municipal, some of these issues. We have made tremendous provincial, and federal elections. I have also worked strides over the past year and I look forward to on government submissions expressing Social Workers’ continuing our work throughout 2005. On a personal concerns in regards to new legislation, and programs/ note, I would like to thank the chairs for all their hard services including: the Family Support for Children with work and dedication over the past year. Membership Disabilities that was proclaimed on Aug. 1, and the interest groups are open to all members. For further Assured Income Support for the Severely Handicapped information please contact the ACSW. program (AISH).
“In November, fact sheets produced for the provincial election on minimum wage, welfare rates and AISH, were distributed to our membership and to the general public in partnership with Public Interest Alberta.”
8 2004 ANNUAL REPORT
Treasurer THE 2004 AUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OFFICIALLY represent the financial position of the Alberta College of Social Workers. In 2004 ACSW revenues were $1,825,049 and expenses were $1,580,574 resulting in an excess of revenue over expenses of $244,475 at the end of the year. By comparison to 2003, revenue Richard Gregory increased in 2004 by $284,942 and expenses increased BSW, MSc, RSW by $146,755. In the 2004 budget, revenue was projected to be $1,640,000 but $185,049 more was taken in due to the Association of Social Work Boards of American and deferred income from the high volume of registration Canadian social workers. As no significant difference applications at the end of 2003. Expenses were also was found in the practices of Canadian and American projected to be $1,640,000 with $59,426 less in social workers, a separate analysis of Canadian expenses. Our primary revenue, membership dues at responses was not required. In 2004 the $60,000 was $1,550,205, was an increase of $188,766 over 2003. transferred to the contingency fund. A resolution passed by council in 1998 required “The increased growth of the ACSW has the ACSW to accumulate a contingency fund of created challenges that require technological $700,000 by 2008. At the beginning of 2004 the solutions.” accumulated surplus was $588,066. With the transfer of the $60,000 set aside for the practice Our next largest revenue source, the 2004 conference, analysis and the remaining amount from the 2004 brought in revenue of $180,704 and made a profit of surplus, at the end of 2004 the contingency fund target $24,995. Our third largest revenue source, interest of $700,000 had been achieved. Council will need to income yielded $56,401. Significant increases in examine future contingency fund requirements given expenses included higher conference costs (which the growth of the ACSW and its legislative obligations. reflected increased participation), increases in orders In conclusion, The Alberta College of Social Workers for promotional materials, increases in costs for is financially sound. Now that the Health Professions regulatory training, increases in wages and benefits Act has been in effect for two years, ACSW has reached for a fulltime professional staff position and overtime a stage where membership numbers and future revenue payouts in keeping with an overtime policy adopted in projections can be more accurately predicted. This will 2004. offer a measure of stability for the ACSW that will assist The increased growth of the ACSW has created in developing future budgets. challenges that require technological solutions. In recognition of these needs, funds from the 2004 surplus have been placed into internally restricted funds for improvements to the database ($50,000) and improvements to the website ($40,000). Additional internally restricted funds have been allocated for the pioneer videos ($35,000) and for communication activities ($65,000). In 2001, $60,000 was set aside in an internally restricted fund for the analysis of Canadian responses to a practice analysis conducted by
9 financials
Auditor’s Report Kouri • Berezan • Heinrichs, Chartered Accountants TO THE MEMBERS OF ALBERTA COLLEGE OF SOCIAL WORKERS includes assessing the accounting principles used and We have audited the statement of financial position significant estimates made by management, as well as of Alberta College of Social Workers as at December evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. 31, 2004 and the statements of operations, changes In our opinion, these financial statements present fairly, in net assets and cash flows for the year then ended. in all material respects, the financial position of the College as at December 31, 2004 and the results of its operations These financial statements are the responsibility of the and its cash flows for the year then ended in accordance with College’s management. Our responsibility is to express Canadian generally accepted accounting principles. an opinion on these financial statements based on our audit. We conducted our audit in accordance with Canadian Edmonton, Alberta generally accepted auditing standards. Those standards February 11, 2005 Chartered Accountants require that we plan and perform an audit to obtain reasonable assurance whether the financial statements are COLLEGE OF SOCIAL WORKERS free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, (Incorporated under the Social Work Profession Act of the Province of Alberta) STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION AS AT DECEMBER 31, 2003 on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also 2003 2002 ASSETS CURRENT ASSETS ALBERTA COLLEGE OF SOCIAL WORKERS Cash $ 284,363 $ 21,818 (Incorporated under the Social Work Profession Act of the Province of Alberta) STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION AS AT DECEMBER 31, 2004 Short-term investments (note 3) 1,202,991 1,045,317 Accounts receivable 2,105 6,213 2004 2003 Inventory 6,405 6,405 Prepaid expenses 58,083 32,832 ASSETS 1,553,947 1,112,585 CURRENT CAPITAL ASSETS (note 4) Cash $ 208,458 $ 284,363 Equipment and leasehold improvements 151,049 132,181 Short term investments (Note 4) 1,684,392 1,202,991 Less accumulated amortization 84,521 58,582 Accounts receivable 10,425 2,105 66,528 73,599 Inventory 6,405 6,405 $ 1,620,475 $ 1,186,184 Prepaid expenses 50,569 58,083 1,960,249 1,553,947 LIABILITIES EQUIPMENT AND LEASEHOLD 68,169 66,526 CURRENT LIABILITIES IMPROVEMENTS (Note 5) Accounts payable and accrued liabilities $ 119,537 $ 107,887 $ 2,028,418 $ 1,620,473 Deferred revenue LIABILITIES Membership dues 756,172 439,132 CURRENT Conference fees - 5,000 Accounts payable and accrued liabilities $ 144,830 $ 119,534 880,022 552,019 Deferred revenue NET ASSETS Membership dues 885,689 756,173 Invested in equipment 66,528 73,599 Conference fees 6,610 - Internally restricted for practice analysis 60,000 60,000 Clinical registry 6,361 4,313 Internally restricted for advocacy 25,859 25,859 1,043,490 880,020 Contingency fund 588,066 474,707 NET ASSETS 740,453 634,165 Invested in equipment and leasehold $ 1,620,475 $ 1,186,184 68,169 66,526 improvements Internally restricted for practice analysis - 60,000 LONG TERM LEASES (note 5) Internally restricted for advocacy 25,859 25,859 COMMITMENT (note 6) Internally restricted for database upgrade 50,000 - Internally restricted for website update 40,000 - Approved By The Council Internally restricted for pioneer videos 35,000 - Internally restricted for communications 65,000 - activities Contingency fund 700,900 588,068 984,928 740,453 $ 2,028,418 $ 1,620,473 LONG TERM LEASES (Note 6) COMMITMENT (Note 7) CONTINGENT LIABILITY (Note 8)
10 2004 ANNUAL REPORT financials
The fi nancial statements have been prepared by management in accordance with ALBERTA COLLEGE OF SOCIAL WORKERS Canadian generally accepted accounting principles. The precise value of many assets STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS and liabilities is dependent on future events. As a result, the preparation of fi nancial YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2004 statements for a period involves the use of approximations which have been made NET Excess of NET ASSETS using careful judgement. Actual results could differ from those approximations. The Investment ASSETS AT revenue AT fi nancial statements have, in management’s opinion, been properly prepared within in Transfers BEGINNING over (under) END OF reasonable limits of materiality and within the framework of the accounting policies equipment OF YEAR expenses YEAR summarized below. Invested in equipment and $ 66,526 $ (31,971) $ 33,614 $ - $ 68,169 Short-term investments Short term investments are stated cost. leasehold improvements Internally restricted for Inventory Inventory is stated at the lower of cost and net realizable value. 60,000 - - (60,000) - practice analysis Equipment and leasehold improvements Equipment and leasehold improvements Internally restricted for are stated at cost less accumulated amortization. Equipment and leasehold 25,859 - - - 25,859 advocacy improvements are amortized using the straight-line method at 20% per annum. Internally restricted for - - - 50,000 50,000 Revenue recognition The College follows the deferral method of accounting for database upgrade contributions. Restricted contributions are recognized as revenue in the year in Internally restricted for - - - 40,000 40,000 which the related expenses are incurred. Unrestricted contributions are recognized website update as revenue when received or receivable if the amount to be received can be Internally restricted for - - - 35,000 35,000 reasonably estimated and collection is reasonably assured. pioneer video Internally restricted for - - - 65,000 65,000 3. FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS The College’s fi nancial instruments consist of cash, communications activities short term investments, accounts receivable and accounts payable and accrued Contingency fund 588,068 276,446 (33,614) (130,000) 700,900 liabilities. It is management’s opinion that the College is not exposed to any $ 740,453 $ 244,475 $ -$ -$ 984,928 signifi cant interest, currency or credit risks arising from these fi nancial instruments. The carrying amounts of fi nancial instruments included on the balance sheet approximate their fair values due to their short term maturities. ALBERTA COLLEGE OF SOCIAL WORKERS STATEMENT OF CASH FLOW 4. SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2004 2004 2003 2004 2003 Scotia Treasury-Bill Fund $ 170,942 $ 208,953 Government of Canada bonds including accrued interest OPERATING ACTIVITIES 1,513,450 994,038 Excess of revenue over (under) expenses $ 244,475 $ 106,288 (quoted market value; $1,508,152; 2003 - $994,345) Items not affecting cash $ 1,684,392 $ 1,202,991 Amortization 31,971 26,795 276,446 133,083 The Government of Canada bonds have effective yields approximating 3.87% and Changes in non-cash working capital items mature between December, 2005 and May, 2009. Accounts receivable (8,320) 4,108 Prepaid expenses 7,514 (25,251) 5. EQUIPMENT AND LEASEHOLD IMPROVEMENTS Accounts payable and accrued liabilities 25,295 11,650 2004 Net 2003 Net Cost Accumulated Deferred revenue Amortization Book Value Book Value Membership dues 129,516 317,040 Furniture $ 39,295 $ 25,104 $ 14,191 $ 14,479 Conference revenue 6,610 (5,000) Offi ce equipment 42,309 22,264 20,045 5,497 Clinical registry 2,048 4,313 Computer Equipment 52,861 39,382 13,479 16,997 162,663 306,860 Leasehold Improvements 50,196 29,742 20,454 29,553 Cash fl ow from operating activities 439,109 439,943 $ 184,661 $ 116,492 $ 68,169 $ 66,526 INVESTING ACTIVITIES Purchase of equipment (33,613) (19,724) 6. LONG TERM LEASES The College operates from leased premises under a long- term lease to 2007. The lease provides for annual rental payments of approximately Cash fl ow used by investing activity (33,613) (19,724) $75,800 which include a proportionate share of operating costs. INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH FLOW 405,496 420,219 The College has entered into a number of operating leases for offi ce equipment. Cash at beginning of year 1,487,354 1,067,135 Annual payments on the operating leases subsequent to 2004 are as follows: CASH AT END OF YEAR $ 1,892,850 $ 1,487,354 2005 $ 19,235 Cash consists of: 2006 $ 16,461 Cash $ 208,458 $ 284,363 2007 $ 16,461 Short-term investments 1,684,392 1,202,991 2008 $ 8,230 $ 1,892,850 $ 1,487,354 $ 65,908 7. COMMITMENT In 2004, the College committed to payments approximating $27,820 to be paid to the University College of the Fraser Valley for services provided ALBERTA COLLEGE OF SOCIAL WORKERS pertaining to establishing a process for approving post-secondary education NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS programs. YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2003 1. PURPOSE OF ORGANIZATION 8. CONTINGENT LIABILITY The College has been named as a co-defendant in a legal The Alberta College of Social Workers was incorporated under the Social Work Profession Act. action seeking damages in the amount of $500,000. Management is of the opinion The college operates under the authority of the Health Professions Act to promote, regulate and that the Action is without merit and plans to vigorously defend this position. No govern the profession of social work in the province of Alberta, to advocate for skilled and ethical provision for loss associated with this action has been recorded in these fi nancial social work practices, and to advocate for policies, programs and services that promote the statements. profession and protect the best interests of the public. The College is a not-for-profi t organization for income tax purposes. No dividends may be paid or assets distributed to members of the ALBERTA COLLEGE OF SOCIAL WORKERS Notes to Financial Statements Year College. Ended December 31, 2004 2. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES 9. COMPARATIVE FIGURES Measurement uncertainty Some of the comparative fi gures have been reclassifi ed to conform to the current year’s presentation.
11 Council Committee Reports
Aboriginal Social Work
Canadian Association of Social Workers
Communication
Nominations and Recruitment 2004 ANNUAL REPORT council committees
Aboriginal Social Work reviewed the draft of the new proposed CASW Code of Ethics to provide feedback regarding Aboriginal perspectives. ASWC members also participated in a workshop held in Hobbema on “Isms and Issues: An Mari Jo Introduction to Multicultural Awareness.” Data has Vanidour been collected throughout the year at the request of RSW the ASWC from Aboriginal members of ACSW to better gauge Aboriginal RSW involvement in ACSW activities. This information will assist in assessing Aboriginal THE ABORIGINAL SOCIAL WORK COMMITTEE BEGAN THE representation within ACSW and will help with future year preparing workshops for the 2004 Annual ACSW initiatives related to matters of interest to Aboriginal Conference in Calgary. ASWC members participated in a social workers. panel presentation on Traditional Aboriginal Practice, During the latter part of 2004 the ASWC discussed assisted with a workshop on Anti-Oppressive Practice plans for a retreat for early 2005. Topics for discussion led by Brenda Gladue and conducted a workshop on the include recognition of Aboriginal teachings for Aboriginal Paradigm within the Scope of Practice. Jen continuing competence credits. ASWC members are: Kneiss has been involved on behalf of the ASWC with Mari Jo Vanidour (chair), Verna Wittigo, Jen Kneiss, planning for the 2005 ACSW conference. Phyllis Bayley and Brenda Gladue. At the request of ACSW Council, the ASWC
Canadian Association of Social Workers CASW has also published a number of research papers dealing with various aspects of poverty. These are available to ACSW members on the CASW website. As the CASW Board representative on the Canadian Collaborative Mental Health Care Initiative, Jake Kuiken I have participated in strategic national work with MSW, RSW representatives of the other health professions and citizen groups about better ways to deliver mental health services. The project is funded and strongly CASW CONTINUES TO PARTICIPATE IN COALITIONS AND supported by federal, provincial and territorial other forms of collaborative social justice work on the ministers and governments. The absence of our national front. Since the majority of Canadian social Quebec colleagues at the national table continues to work regulators have followed ACSW’s lead and joined be a matter of concern for the Board. Fortunately, the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB), many considerable good will continues to characterize the of their needs are now being met in the international relationships we have with our colleagues. I want context. Discussions have begun with our American to thank the Council of ACSW for supporting and colleagues in NASW to explore the feasibility of a North nominating me for the position of CASW President. The American campaign to promote social work. election for this and other executive positions will take With the assistance of Glenn Drover and others, place in June of this year in Vancouver , BC.
13 council committees
Communication ACSW’s 2004 Annual General Meeting. In an effort to keep ACSW members updated on the resolutions, the committee has gathered relevant information, compiled this into articles and submitted these to Guy the Advocate. Committee members also met with a Quenneville, communications consultant to discuss a number of BSW, RSW items: options for promotional activities to enhance public awareness of the social work profession, the potential use of surveys to determine public IN 2004, THE COMMUNICATION COMMITTEE WAS perceptions about ACSW and the social work profession established as a standing committee of ACSW and internal surveys to determine any communications Council with Bonita Decaire, Richard Gregory, Guy concerns with members. Quenneville and Sandi Sherman serving as initial Currently all the committee members are part members. The purpose of this committee is to facilitate of Council. However, members in good standing communication between Council and the membership, are welcome to participate on the Communication staff and the public. Committee. In addition to discussing a variety of communications matters, committee members took a lead role in responding to the resolutions arising from
Nominations & Recruitment Alberta. The NRC will assist in encouraging members from rural areas or from specific backgrounds or areas of practice to participate on regulatory committees. The NRC will continue to be involved with the nominations and elections process for ACSW Council Grace Elliot positions and with recommendations for Council MSW, RSW vacancies. The NRC will also continue to review nominations and recommend recipients for ACSW awards. THE NOMINATIONS AND RECRUITMENT COMMITTEE (NRC) In 2004, the NRC expanded its geographic has evolved from the former Nominations Committee diversity when it welcomed Bob Johnson as a member to become a standing committee of ACSW Council. from Calgary. Thanks are extended to Judith Mason In 2004, the role of this Committee was expanded to who took on chair duties when Grace Elliott was on recruit members for ACSW’s regulatory committees. sabbatical. Members are: Grace Elliott, Papiya Das, It has been challenging for regulatory committees Margot Herbert, Bob Johnson, Judith Mason and Peter to find members who represent the diversity of the Vogels. profession in Alberta. Therefore the NRC will liaise with chairs of these committees to encourage membership that reflects the demographic diversity of RSWs in
14 Regulatory Committee Reports
Competence
Clinical Social Work
Professional Social Work Education Board
Registration regulatory
Competence feedback, we will be reviewing the current Competence Model. Ruth Bieber, Before developing a framework for practice visits, MSW, MEd, RSW we wanted to gather as much feedback as possible. A Edward questionnaire was placed in the Advocate and on the Sandberg, ACSW website with just six responses received. The MSW, RSW next step was a series of more than 20 focus groups to which all social workers were invited. More than 200
Back: Barry Hall, Joleen Losness, Al Failing people shared their thoughts on the issue. Front: Marianne Wright, Edward Sandberg, Due to the close linkage between Competence and Annabelle Kootenay Missing: Ruth Bieber Continuing Education, our co-chair Ruth Bieber has IN THE PAST YEAR, THE COMPETENCE COMMITTEE BEGAN been asked to sit on the Continuing Education Advisory to review approximately 740 June portfolios and were Committee for the Faculty of Social Work, U of C. During very impressed by the submissions to date. In the next 2004, Joleen Losness and Al Failing filled a couple of year we will survey a large proportion of members vacancies on the Committee. Thanks go out all those submitting portfolios in 2004. Of special interest will volunteers and ACSW staff who have solidly supported be their feedback on user friendliness of the format the committee’s work. and the viability of Categories A, B and C. Based on the survey, portfolio reviews and ongoing membership
Clinical Social Work
Janet Lockington, MSW, RSW
L-R: Janet Lockington (chair), Connie Barlow, Elaine Spencer, Sharon Lindstrom, Greg Robinson, Jane Matheson, Randy Harris
TWELVE NEW APPLICANTS WERE APPROVED TO THE CLINICAL week-long clinical supervision training course for 24 Specialty Registry in 2004, eight by examination, three social workers. Dr. Catherine Clancy of the Veteran’s by transfer and one that commenced under pre-HPA Administration Hospital in Houston Texas provided the criteria. A number of new applicants are approved to training. Following this training, forms were developed take the exam and are waiting for the next scheduled for structuring supervision of future applicants to the opportunity, likely in Spring, 2005. Clinical Registry. For those interested, the pertinent Ongoing activities of the committee include policy policies and application forms are available on the development regarding substantial equivalencies ACSW web site. and continuing competence for clinical social workers. In May, 2004 the committee organized a
16 2004 ANNUAL REPORT regulatory
Professional Social Work Education Board work diploma programs. This process was used to develop a recommendation to ACSW Council to grant candidacy status to the Northern Lakes College for a new social work diploma program that was launched in the fall of 2004. Candidacy status identifies new John Mould diploma programs that are in process to receive MSW, RSW approved program status. A second proposal for a diploma program was under review at the close of the year. During the year, several meetings were held with THE ROLE OF THE PSWEB IS TO MAKE RECOMMENDATIONS Alberta Learning to clarify the review process and to to ACSW Council regarding approved program status for exchange information about new proposals. The PSWEB Alberta-based social work education programs. 2004 is grateful to the University of Calgary, Faculty of Social was a very active year that involved two face-to-face Work, for use of its videoconference facilities which meetings and nine meetings by videoconference/ greatly assisted our work. Members of the board are: speakerphone. John Mould (chair), Rick Berube, John Crier, Richard The PSWEB has worked closely with Alberta Feehan, Brian Guthrie, John McDermott, Gayla Rogers, Learning (now Advanced Education) to develop a Maria Smyth and Don Thompson. process that was simultaneous, overlapping and yet separate, for the review of proposals for new social
Registration During 2004 the Registration Committee discussed Bill Cunes a number of topics related to registration that included international qualifications, recognition of supervised MSW, RSW practicum hours, criminal records checks, the Michael (Kim) Agreement on Internal Trade, substantial equivalents, Zapf committee representation and chairmanship. PhD, RSW The members of the Registration Committee include representatives from approved university and college social work programs in addition to ACSW members. THE REGISTRATION COMMITTEE IS A REGULATORY The members are: Mary Berube, Bill Cunes, Mike committee established under the Health Professions Dickinson and Kim Zapf. Bill Cunes served as chair of Act to develop recommendations for standards of this committee for most of 2004. In November, ACSW registration. This committee can place conditions on a Council approved that the Registration Committee be regulated member’s practice permit and can monitor co-chaired by Bill Cunes and Kim Zapf. compliance with any such conditions. The Registration Committee also determines whether or not a member whose registration was cancelled for disciplinary reasons has met conditions for re-instatement.
17 Membership Committee Reports
Advocate Editorial Board
Children’s Issues, Calgary
Children’s Issues, Edmonton
Gerontology
Health
Private Practice
Retired Social Workers 2004 ANNUAL REPORT membership
Children’s Issues, Calgary Will there be negative impacts for children, youth, and families? At the advocacy level, the committee has worked in partnership with the Governor’s Council on a John Dray number of issues including poverty and homelessness. BSW (Equiv.), RSW Members also discussed and undertook independent Liz Leroux initiatives in getting child and youth issues heard MSW, RSW during the provincial election. In early 2005, committee members will participate in a community development and advocacy workshop offered by the THROUGHOUT 2004 THE CALGARY CHILDREN’S ISSUES Office of the Child & Youth Advocate, to continue Committee has provided members an opportunity strengthening skills in this area. to network about issues impacting child-and-youth- The committee maintains a strong membership base serving organizations in the Calgary region, and has and welcomes new Calgary-area members with fresh provided a place for members to discuss advocacy ideas and a commitment to the well-being of children strategies to better support children and youth. and youth. For more information please contact the At the networking level, committee members have co-chairs Liz Leroux at [email protected] or expressed on-going concerns about the new child John Dray at [email protected]. welfare legislation. How will the Act be interpreted and implemented? What will service delivery look like?
Children’s Issues, Edmonton and updated the committee’s terms of reference. Committee discussion throughout the year touched on lack of support in the work environment for professional social work practice, which presents Donna difficulties in adequately meeting the needs of our Servetnyk children, youth, and families. As a result, committee BSW, RSW members dedicated time toward preparing a presentation to senior management of children’s services for Region 6. IN EARLY 2004, ARNOLD THIESSEN STEPPED DOWN AS The year concluded with a focus on the new child chair of the Edmonton Children’s issues committee, welfare legislation’s impact on social work practice and after four years of service – thank you Arnold for all of to services for children, youth and families. The group your dedication and hard work. Donna Servetnyk took is currently engaged in information sharing sessions over this position in April and will be joined by Gail on the new legislation, which will ultimately inform Cooper as co-chair in 2005. The committee worked on a advocacy efforts the committee will undertake in the number of issues including: feedback on the new Family coming year. Supports for Children with Disabilities Act which was proclaimed on Aug. 1, recreational funding for children in Region 6, and inadequate services for street youth. The group also shared resources on advocacy strategies
19 membership
Advocate Editorial Board history of the profession. The Advocate also continued to report on current political advocacy efforts and share news of ACSW Council and the many member- driven interest groups. To encourage more contributors, a brochure Papiya Das “Writing for the Advocate” now appears on the MSW, RSW ACSW website. Editorial board member Bill Kirwin’s workshops around Alberta—“So you want to write”— were well attended. THIS PAST YEAR, THE ADVOCATE STRIVED HARDER TO SHARE Eugene Ip joined the Editorial Board this year information and to provide insight into our profession. replacing Briar McGinnis who moved out of province. Featured in 2004’s quarterly issues were interviews Members are: Erin Grey, Trudy Wilson, Eugene Ip, with social workers in palliative care, working with Duane Burton, Bill Kirwin, Leslie MacKinnon, Jena people with disabilities, and tackling dual roles at work Snyder, Cheryl Moskaluk and ACSW Professional Affairs and with the ACSW Council. Other features included Co-coordinator Elaine Paras. Thanks go out to all international social work, and the unique perspectives who committed their time and efforts in publishing of four retired social workers. A new column “Inside the Advocate. New ideas and suggestions are always Investigations” was added and columnist Baldwin welcome. Reichwein continued with “Beginnings”, a look at the
Gerontology ‘Pathways’—an electronic matching system for clients Kim Lundell and continuing-care facilities. BSW RSW Members made presentations to community Sonja Lukey groups including a talk on continuing-care housing BSW, RSW options at Northgate Seniors Centre. They also attended numerous information sessions including: Joan Goodman Dr. Alan Wofelt on grief and loss, Alberta Seniors Dip. SW, RSW Services workshop, Alberta Palliative Care conference, ACSW annual conference, the national social work THE GERONTOLOGY MEMBERSHIP INTEREST COMMITTEE conference in Saskatoon, Dr. Richard Shillington in held nine meetings in 2004. Fifty-eight registered Calgary on pensions, policies and payouts, Friends of social workers have shown an interest in this Medicare annual general meeting, access and privacy burgeoning field of social work and receive the conference, and the Public Guardian and Public minutes. A core group faithfully attends. Popular Trustees presentations in Edmonton. The committee information sessions are alternated with business also has representation on the Best Practices meetings, which always include a lively peer support Committee on the Long Term Care Council – Capital and development segment. Information sessions Health Authority. included: The Hope Foundation on hope and well- We express gratitude to the staff at the ACSW for being, Credit Counselling Services of Alberta on their resources and support and eagerly anticipate an seniors’ bankruptcies, and Central Assessment and exciting and informative year ahead. Placement Services of Capital Health Authority on
20 2004 ANNUAL REPORT membership
Health Plans for educational opportunities for social workers in health are being developed at individual sites/sectors. These opportunities are typically open Claudia Berwald to all social workers. Social Workers in Health keeps MSW RSW fellow social workers informed of upcoming events by Gayle Subchuk providing updates at the meetings and distributing MSW RSW notices to everyone on the email distribution list. ACSW also shares news and relevant points for us to discuss at each meeting. SOCIAL WORKERS IN HEALTH HAS BEEN AN ACTIVE, GROWING A new sub-committee, the Social Workers in committee working to address issues that face social Health Working Group, was established this past workers who work in a variety of health care settings. year. Attendees of the regular meetings explored This past year Social Workers in Health meetings via ways of increasing the recognition of professional Telehealth expanded to include the Grey Nuns, Royal social work in health settings. The Social Workers in Alexandra, Misericordia, Alberta Hospital Ponoka, as Health Committee continues to be a vital link between well as participation from Home Care, Continuing Care, the ACSW and social workers practising in the ever- Psychosocial Oncology Network and Mental Health. It is changing world of health care. hoped that rural social workers may also network with colleagues via Telehealth where available.
Private Practice This includes questions of whether social workers should cease to collect GST before the legislation has been passed and the types of services that would Audrey Ferber qualify for exemption. The committee also spent MSW, RSW time improving communication with Private Practice Tom Baker Roster members, assessing the impact of the Family MSW, RSW Enhancement Act on children and families, and promoting equivalent fee increases for social workers with other mental health professionals. THE ACSW PRIVATE PRACTICE COMMITTEE REPRESENTS The Private Practice Committee has continued to the interests of social workers in private practice and post relevant articles and information on the Private their clients. Over the past year, the Committee has Practice page of the Advocate. The committee is also continued to work on the issues of GST exemption for developing a Private Practice webpage on the ACSW social workers and getting social workers approved as Website. Thank you to all the members of the Private service providers under employee benefit programs. Practice committee for their untiring efforts and A package offering information about lobbying EAP enthusiasm over the past year. companies to accept social workers as service providers is now available on the ACSW website. Our efforts to seek clarification on the proposed GST legislation still left many questions unanswered.
21 membership
Retired Social Workers This past year a sub-committee, in addition to other involvements, has been active in developing an electronic ‘Wall of Recognition’. So as not to overwhelm our resources, we are starting with those Ernest individuals who worked in a field of social work as of Schlesinger 1970 or earlier. MSW, RSW Retired social workers in other areas of the province who wish to form a similar group, please contact the ACSW office or me at (780) 439-2129, e-mail: IT IS NOW OVER FOUR YEARS SINCE THE INCEPTION OF [email protected]. Special thanks go to the Planning our Edmonton group. Many of us are NOT fully retired Committee: Wanda Cree, Mary Engelmann, Marie but we enjoy the opportunity to learn what is new in MacDonald, Elizabeth Myles, Derwyn Whitbread, Don the profession and stay in touch with colleagues and Milne, Baldwin Reichwein, Doug Smith and Sheila friends. We have been fortunate to have top-notch Schlesinger. I am also grateful for the encouragement speakers inform us on several of the major issues. We and support from Elaine Paras and ACSW. hope to continue in this vein but also intend to invite the decision makers—politicians, for instance—for discussion and to express our concerns on social policy and service delivery issues.
22 2004 ANNUAL REPORT
2004 Volunteer Acknowledgements The Alberta College of Social Workers would like to acknowledge the many volunteers who, over the past year, worked in support of OUR profession.
Diane Allan Grace Elliot Sharon Lindstrom Elizabeth Radian Karen Walsh Tanya Backstrom Al Failing Bruce Llewellyn Capri Rasmussen Ronnie Wassill Anne Baker Richard Feehan Janet Lockington Baldwin Reichwein Dave Wellings Leslie Baker Linda Fehr Joleen Losness Tamara Remillard Maureen Wilson Thomas Baker Audrey Ferber Sonja Lukey Charlotte Rentz Trudy Wilson Constance Barlow Mic Farrell Kim Lundell Tanya Ridgedale Verna Wittigo Betty Bastien David Flux Nikki Lussier Rebecca Riley Marianne Wright Phyllis Bayley Rhonda Fox-Miles Megan MacLeod Greg Robinson Peter Vogels Mary Berube Jacquie Fujimoto Leslie MacKinnon Gayla Rogers Kim Zapf Rick Berube Anne Gauthier Bonnie Malach Pam Rolston Claudia Berwald Maxine Gibson Susan Mallon Suzanne Rosebrugh Council’s public Debra Best Brenda Gladue Tonia Marini Debra Samek members: Ruth Bieber Joan Goodman Henri Marsolais Edward Sandberg Lynne Davies Lina Boily Linda Golding Charles Martin Brent Savard Bill Donahue Margaret Brown Erin Gray Judith Mason Marg Scheyen Vince Steinhauer Kelly Buckley Sterling Green Duane Massing Ernest Schlesinger Ralph Westwood Duane Burton Richard Gregory Jane Matheson Sheila Schlesinger George Calliou James Gripton Jeanette McEachern Donna Servetnyk Public members on Linda Cargill Brian Guthrie Anne-Marie Richard Shelson Discipline Wayne Carrier Alan Hagen McLaughlin Sandi Sherman Lawrence Tymko, Lan Chan-Marples Barry Hall Gerry Mertick Judy Simmonds Susan Bocock Lisa Chittenden Tricia Hansen Jenny Meyer Jann Smith Leonard Dunn June Churchill Randy Harris Todd Michie Maria Smyth Colleen Clark Margot Herbert Sharon Mills Elaine Spencer Students Bruce Clarke Patrick Hirschi Heather Moon Gayle Subchuk Andrea Trendel Charlotte Cooper Eugene Ip Joanne Morcom Chris Sunderland Dale-Anne Karen Crawford Bob Johnson John Mould Dennis Switzer Yakimchuk John Crier Brenda Joyce Steve Natran Alice Temesvary Bill Cunes Cory Keith Janet Neilson Arnold Thiessen Shelley Currie Jacquie Keller Karen Nielsen Alice Thompson Kathleen Danser Jennifer Kneiss Tara O’Sullivan Don Thompson Papiya Das Bill Kirwin Cindy Oxman Leslie Thompson Bonita Decaire Annabelle Kootenay Bob Palichuk Glen Thomson Mike Dickinson Jake Kuiken Colleen Palichuk Judy Todd Roxanne Dohms Margo Kushner Jim Pender Janis Turner John Dray Agnieszka Sylvia Pratt Jackie Twining Emily Drzymala Kustra-Rau Carolyn Preston Monica Vanderleest Barbara Duke- Lynn Lambert Sandra Prokopiw Mari Jo Vanidour Romano Liz Leroux Guy Quenneville Jeanette Villeneuve
23 Alberta College of Social Workers Suite 550 10707 - 100 Avenue Edmonton, Alberta T5J 3M1 Phone: (780) 421-1167 Fax: (780) 421-1168 Toll Free Phone: 1-800-661-3089 Toll Free Fax: 1-866-874-8931 Website: www.acsw.ab.ca Email : [email protected] 24