Frequently Asked Questions
How do you select what organizations are in the library?
There are two methods of adding an organization to the library. Most organizations are submitted through social service agents when a resource that serves a vulnerable population is identified. Case Managers connect with a wide array of people that are in need of a variety of assistance, often with needs being intertwined and requiring a complex solution. Secondly, organizations are able to submit themselves as a resource to the library as long as their services address a vulnerable population.
What is the backstory to the name "The Cairn Cooperative"?
A cairn has been used hitorically as a memorial or to assist travelers in finding the direction of a trail; particularly in an environment where route-finding the is challenging, such as in the alpine. As we go through life we find that our routes are challenging to navigate at times. Whether our primary needs are accessing safe shelter or being able to express onself authentically, we often need guidance to find the way to meeting those needs. The Cairn Cooperative was built to assist social service agents in connecting with 'cairns' (guidance posts) to meet needs along the route of their own trail, client trails or of the greater community.
Should we build cairns?
The Cairn Cooperative is a Colorado based business spearheaded by a Social Worker who finds their peace in the alpine terrain. Although the symbolism of the cairn fits the metaphor of case management as a trail, cairn's are not beneficial in the wild unless authorized for safe recreation.
According to the National Assosciation for Social Workers (NASW)- "Social Workers uphold their ethical responsibilities by advocating for policies and practices that can create sustainable communities, limit damage to the environment by human activiy and help people adapt to a changing climate". In conjunction with the direction of the National Park Service and Leave No Trace principals citing that cairns disturb soil, increasing erosion, and disturb fragile vegetation and micro ecosystems.
We certainly do not want to add to the stress in environments that are already stressed by human activity. Respecting the great outdoors and envrionmentally-focused ethical principles lead to a great cooperative!
Questions and general feedbacak help The Cairn Cooperative continue to expand into a more beneficial site! We appreicate your insight and would love to answer questions to the best of our ability!