All Children - All Families participating agencies are recognized at three different levels of LGBTQ inclusion, depending on the extent to which they have implemented LGBTQ inclusive policies and affirming practices. The description and benefits of each tier is outlined below.
Click Here to Download a PDF of the Tiers of Recognition
Click Here for Annual ACAF Report Featuring the List of Agencies in each Tier
At this level, agencies are often at the early stages of inclusive policy and practice implementation. Benchmarks focus on establishing nondiscrimination protections, providing staff with online learning related to LGBTQ topics and improving LGBTQ inclusion in forms, paperwork and messaging. This tier’s requirements are meaningful and achievable for agencies beginning their work on LGBTQ inclusion.
Tier Benchmark Requirements
Recognition Opportunities
At this level, agencies have implemented the essential elements of LGBTQ inclusion in policies and affirming practices. Benchmarks go beyond basic non-discrimination protections to the policies and practices necessary to actively “roll out the welcome mat” to the LGBTQ community. These agencies have also assessed their practices specific to youth and parents to ensure LGBTQ inclusion and acted to make these efforts sustainable for the long-term. Organizations that achieve the Solid Tier receive the “You Are Welcome Here” Seal of Recognition.
Tier Benchmark Requirements
To achieve this level of recognition, the core policy and practice areas in categories 1-6 must be in place:
Recognition Opportunities
In addition to the recognition opportunities outlined above, Solid Foundation organizations also enjoy the following benefits:
At this level, agencies are pushing themselves beyond the solid foundation they have built and implementing innovative approaches to LGBTQ inclusion in each of the seven key policy and practice areas. Benchmarks at this level also require agencies to demonstrate leadership in areas like policy advocacy or organizational partnerships. Organizations that achieve the Innovative Tier receive the “Innovator” Seal of Recognition
Tier Benchmark Requirements
To achieve this level of recognition, the core policy and practice areas in categories 1-6 must be in place. In addition, agencies must demonstrate at least one example of innovation in practice areas 2-7.
Recognition Opportunities
In addition to the recognition opportunities outlined above, Innovative organizations also enjoy the following benefits: