We believe that driving is a privilege, not a right. Impaired driving crashes are not accidents, but rather the direct result of an individual’s conscious decision to drive after drinking or using drugs.
We believe that a balanced program of public awareness, progressive legislation, proactive enforcement, and meaningful sanctions is essential to eliminating impaired driving. Our policies strive to reflect the best available evidence, research and information designed to reduce impaired driving injuries and deaths.
We believe in fair and equitable enforcement and prosecution of impaired driving laws, including the use of Mandatory Alcohol Screening at every lawful traffic stop and the continued enhancement of enforcement to combat drug-impaired driving.
We believe, as an organization committed to the importance of rights, that all of our legislative proposals and other public policies must be compatible with the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, and federal and provincial human rights legislation.
We believe that victims and survivors of impaired driving must be treated with dignity and respect, and have the access to services that meet their needs in a timely manner. They must be provided information about the criminal justice system, their rights and their case.
We believe that offenders must be held accountable for their criminal behaviour and the harm caused. Penalties should include measures that minimize the risk of recidivism, including the use of technology, treatment and proven rehabilitative programs.
We believe that our organizational culture must reflect our commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion, from our national leadership to our volunteers. MADD Canada appreciates all its staff and volunteers and treats them with compassion, respect and dignity.
We believe our volunteers are the heart and soul of MADD Canada. Their commitment to making all of our communities safer and supporting victims and survivors is our greatest strength.
Institutional Values
As a grassroots organization, we are guided by the following values:
- Compassion – We provide the highest quality programs and services with empathy, understanding and caring.
- Leadership – We value our people and are committed to providing quality training, support, and development to volunteers, Board and staff.
- Inclusion – We embrace the diversity of Canadians and our country’s various regions and communities.
- Collaboration – We engage in strategic relationships and alliances in order to extend our impact and reach.
- Excellence – We are accountable and transparent and aim for excellence in governance and operations.