WESTERN DOMINICAN PROVINCE EARNS HIGHEST HONOR IN ABUSE PREVENTION PRACTICES AND RESPONSE, PRAESIDIUM ACCREDITATION™
July 25, 2007

Oakland, California – Western Dominican Province of the Most Holy Name of Jesus, has been awarded Praesidium Accreditation™ by Praesidium, the national leader in abuse risk management. Praesidium Accreditation™ confirms that an individual order or congregation has been found by an independent team of specialists to meet or exceed all Standards for Accreditation.

To attain accreditation, the Western Dominican Province underwent a long educational process and a rigorous assessment to clarify their responsibilities, identify best practices, and evaluate the extent to which they are meeting these defined standards. Each accreditation standard was independently verified by Praesidium.

The Western Dominican Province was found to be in compliance with the highest current national standards for protecting children. They have acted upon the call to more accountability and transparency in how to protect children, handle allegations of sexual abuse, reach out to victims, and supervise members who have sexually abused.

The Western Dominican Province will be accredited for three years, and during this time will uphold fundamental values and stringent safety practices that demonstrate their commitment to protecting those they serve from abuse.

Praesidium is the national leader in abuse risk management and has worked with thousands of companies worldwide for 20 years. More information about Praesidium Accreditation™ is available at www.PraesidiumInc.com.