PAR Performance Areas

It is often said that “what gets measured, gets done”. While companies seeking PAR certification report on quantifiable measures, the program and the verification process acknowledge that strong relationships are a key to sustainability and progressive improvement in Aboriginal relations.  The PAR certification recognizes the value of relationships and the diversity of opportunities and challenges that face companies that are committed to the Aboriginal community.   

PAR verifies corporate initiatives and outcomes in four key performance areas:

Employment

Employment is defined as the commitment of resources (time or money) to achieving equitable representation of Aboriginal persons in the workplace. This involves recruiting and retaining Aboriginal talent, supporting their career development and advancement, promoting mobility of Aboriginal employees throughout employment sectors and levels, supporting cross-cultural awareness and/or cultural sensitivity training and providing training and support for existing or prospective Aboriginal employees through specific programs. 

Community Investment

Community investment is defined as the gift of resources (time, money or other in-kind supports) that are provided voluntarily to an Aboriginal community or group. Community investment is designed to deliver on the development needs of Aboriginal communities or groups and may support the delivery of business strategy.

Business Development

Business development is defined as the commitment of resources (time or money) to the development of business relationships with Aboriginal owned businesses. These activities may be prompted by impact benefit agreements but are sustained through mutual benefit. Capacity building and mentorship directly related to sustaining, enhancing or developing future business agreements are considered investment in this area.

Community Engagement

Community engagement is defined as a commitment of resources to develop or maintain constructive relations with aboriginal communities or groups.  These relationships are based on understanding Aboriginal community needs, interests and rights and involving the communities in company activities and decisions that affect them. Engagement approaches may range from communication (i.e. information-sharing) to interactive consultation and dialogue to full partnerships, and include the application of a range of tools.