EAGLE DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE

“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.”

– Proverbs 27:17 (NIV)

As this newsletter arrives in your inbox, 12 leaders are preparing for three upcoming EAGLE reviews. These dedicated peer reviewers have read in-depth self-studies; reviewed numerous policies, procedures, plans and reports; held collaborative team meetings and made adjustments to both busy personal and professional calendars to travel for the site visits.

With so many irons in the fire, why would someone take on the extra responsibility of service as a peer reviewer? Comments shared by reviewers who served in 2024 reveal the tremendous value of the peer review experience:

“Invaluable and really helps recharge my batteries.”

“It was inspiring and encouraging to spend time with a great organization that ministers to the

needs of senior adults.”

“I thoroughly enjoyed this experience, learned new things and developed meaningful connections with people.”

Truly, peer review service is an iron sharpening iron experience. When leaders share expertise, insight and learn from each other – everyone walks away stronger. But the value of the experience goes beyond the time spent on the team or on the visit. The deeper value comes from the relationships forged in service together. Review team members become trusted colleagues and treasured friends. They seek one another’s counsel on a challenging project or anticipate with much joy crossing paths at a professional conference.

Such was the case for me and many others who served alongside Susan Sharp, Vice President of Mission Advancement for Simpson. An active peer reviewer and EAGLE Commissioner, Susan eagerly shared her insight and knowledge with numerous organizations pursuing accreditation. Susan passed away in December. Members of the EAGLE Accreditation Program extend our thoughts and prayers to Susan’s family, her colleagues and the residents at Simpson and all those whose lives she impacted.

As the EAGLE Accreditation Program continues to grow, we continue to focus on building our pool of peer reviewers. For leaders of our accredited organizations – which members of your executive team would provide knowledgeable consultation to other ministries? For our current reviewers – which of your peers could bring a depth of expertise to the program?

If you feel the call to sharpen others within the human services sector, consider the value of service as an EAGLE peer reviewer. You may also build lasting friendships along the way.