Our Values
We at the World Fellowship for Schizophrenia and Allied Disorders believe in:
Leadership
WFSAD strives to empower family members to become community leaders and agents of change, through international advocacy and education.
Sustainability
Developing appropriate skills means that the communities become more self-sufficient as they adapt the knowledge to their own needs. The successful establishment and continuation of family support associations in many parts of the world indicates the sustainability of our work.
Respect for Cultural Values
While WFSAD may have much to impart to families of the mentally ill and others who are building relationships with us, we too have much to learn. Work is carried out in an atmosphere of mutual respect. Working with families from all cultures through our "Mutual Exchange" program, we recognize that learning is a two way street.
Spreading the Word
Since the early 1990s WFSAD board and volunteers have made educational presentations in the form of workshops, seminars and training sessions all over the world. These programs have been welcomed by families affected by schizophrenia and allied disorders, and have provided the warmth, sincerity and knowledge necessary for learning to take place in this very difficult area of education. Our biennial conferences also provide an opportunity for family leaders to share experiences and learn from mental health professionals supportive of the family movement.
Going the Extra Mile
A hallmark of WFSAD work is its personal service and its expertise in the field it has carved out for itself. Whether it is working with a national member, a small organization, a new group or a single individual, WFSAD always tries to provide services or resources that meet the exact need in a timely manner. Members of the board are professionals in the management of schizophrenia in their home countries. Their direct involvement as "field workers", educating and disseminating this information abroad is an invaluable asset to getting things done.
