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How to Build Cultural Competencies into your Older Adult Programming

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It is important for organizations who work with immigrant older adults to be culturally competent.

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This is a set of attitudes, behaviours and skills that enable you to work successfully in a cross-cultural setting.

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It is more than just being aware of differences.

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It implies valuing and adapting to diversity.

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Being aware of your own identity and cultural biases and being able to manage the dynamics of working with diverse groups.

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A culturally competent organization brings together knowledge about different groups of people -- and transforms it into standards, policies, and practices.

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Here’s some active steps to guide you in this process…

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Do a comprehensive cultural competence assessment of your organization.

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Use the results to develop a long-term plan with measurable goals and objectives

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to incorporate culturally competent principles policies structures and practices.

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Include cultural competency requirements in job descriptions.

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Cultural competency requirements should be apparent from the very beginning of the hiring process.

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Ensure the people working and volunteering are reflective of the population groups you are working with.

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Get your staff involved in discussion and activities about cultural competence.

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Consider holding cultural competence training sessions.

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Make sure the location is accessible and respectful of difference, especially when planning and implementing programs and services.

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Be considerate of religious holidays and traditions,

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including cultural religious fasting and various dietary restrictions.

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And always remember to consider the need for accommodated spaces for prayer.

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There are many ways that organizations can do this work…

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Ask others to work with you to develop your organization's cultural competence.

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Review other organizations best practices

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and consult with faith leaders, and of course community members from the population groups you serve.

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Ensure the assessment, screening and intake forms used takes culture into consideration.

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That way you can plan and prepare accordingly.

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Understand how history for some may cause tension and cultural divides with other groups.

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Create group guidelines and program specific activities to foster understanding, respect and diversity.

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Arrange for translators and ensure materials are produced in languages reflective of the populations you are serving.

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Working towards cultural competence is an ongoing process,

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one that requires commitment from individuals at all levels to ensure the creation and maintenance of an inclusive environment.

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