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“This accreditation for Sensity is the result of extraordinary commitment, compassion, and collaboration.

— Accreditation is more than a formal recognition — it’s a reflection of the quality, dedication, and integrity that defines how we support individuals who are Deafblind. It acknowledges the high standards we hold ourselves to, and it affirms the vital, life-changing work each of you does every single day. Whether you work directly with individuals supported, or embrace our purpose statement, and organizational values behind the scenes, you have helped us reach this important milestone. Thank you for your unwavering belief in our mission, for rising to challenges, for supporting one another, and for never losing sight of the people we support and purpose at the heart of our work. This milestone belongs to all of us. Accreditation is not just a one-time event—it’s part of an ongoing journey of growth and improvement. As a next step, we will be developing a Quality Improvement Plan to further enhance our services. This plan will support our commitment to Continuous Quality Improvement and ensure we sustain and build on our success” Jacki Blenkinsop; Director, Quality Improvement

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Media Release

For Immediate Release

Date: July 28th, 2025

FOCUS Accreditation Announces Prestigious Accreditation for Deafblind and Sensory Support Network of Canada (Sensity).

[Paris, ON] – FOCUS Accreditation is pleased to announce that Deafblind and Sensory Support Network of Canada (Sensity), has achieved a four year accreditation award from July 2025-July 2029. This recognition signifies Sensity’s commitment to maintaining the highest standards of excellence in the human services sector. This is the organization’s first FOCUS Accreditation validation using the 2023 FOCUS Accreditation Standards.

Accreditation is a rigorous process that involves a comprehensive review of an organization’s operations, programs and services and performance against established benchmarks. Sensity has successfully met these standards, demonstrating a dedication to quality and continuous improvement.

FOCUS Accreditation evaluated various aspects of Sensity ‘s operations, programs and services. The accreditation is a testament to Sensity’s commitment to providing exceptional services and ensuring the well-being and satisfaction of its stakeholders.

This is a proud moment and a great achievement in the evolution of Sensity. On behalf of CEO (Cathy Proll) and the board of Directors we are extremely grateful for all the hard work, stakeholder engagement and commitment from the Sensity community.

Sensity joins an elite group of organizations that have demonstrated their commitment to excellence. This accreditation status serves as a mark of distinction, assuring Sensity’s service users, partners, and the community that they can trust in the organization’s quality and professionalism.

For Sensity this achievement is not just a recognition; it is a reflection of the organization’s ongoing dedication to delivering outstanding programs and services. Accreditation provides a foundation for future growth and development, setting a benchmark for Sensity to continually raise its standards.

FOCUS Accreditation looks forward to Sensity continuing its journey of excellence and innovation, making a positive impact in the communities it serves.

Cheryl Whiteman, Executive Director of FOCUS Accreditation, commended Sensity for its outstanding commitment to third-party evaluation. She noted that Sensity is the first deafblind organization to be accredited using the 2023 FOCUS Accreditation Standards.

As one stakeholder shared, Sensity is recognized as a leader in the field of deafblindness, with decades of specialized knowledge. The organization’s commitment to the Intervenor model and individualized planning ensures that people with deafblindness receive support that fosters independence, dignity, and inclusion.

Whiteman expressed gratitude to Sensity for being dedicated to growing and learning through the accreditation process. By embracing such a rigorous process, Sensity sends a powerful message to stakeholders about their openness and transparency, as well as their dedication to excellence across all aspects of its operations, programs, and services.

About FOCUS Accreditation

FOCUS is a non-profit accreditation agency for community service organizations. Created in Ontario, Canada, by the very people who use and work in these services, FOCUS reflects the culture and expectations of community service organizations in Canada.

FOCUS accredits the whole organization, not just select programs within. The standards reflect best practice in the way programs and services are provided as well as the effectiveness of how the organization operates. An organization that meets FOCUS’ standards can be viewed as an organization that focuses on the people it serves, and on high quality service delivery. FOCUS has accredited over 60 organizations and works with over 50 community-based groups. A full list of accredited organizations is on our website www.focusaccreditation.org

For Media Contact:

Cheryl Whiteman, Executive Director

FOCUS Accreditation: 1-866-805-2600 ext. 21

cheryl@focusaccreditation.org

www.focusaccreditation.org