Accreditation - the mark of distinction - Standards Update

What is it about the outdoor environment and a change of pace in our hectic lives that brings such a sense of renewal? Camps and conference centers have known for years that personal growth and inspiration are affected by the natura environment -- something they have plenty of!

The environment is just one factor involved in selecting a camp or a retreat center. But most people trying to make the choice are not expert, relying instead on advice from friends, co-workers, or their religious institutions.

The American Camping Association, however, is an expert in determining if a cam or conference center meets the standards established by the profession. Through accreditation, ACA asks the right questions and objectively evaluates the responses.

ACA accreditation is truly a mark of distinction for sites and programs committed to quality and excellence. Accreditation is not simply given as a benefit of membership. It is earned.

My daughter attends an accredited college; I will only use an accredited hospital; why would I send my son to a camp that is not accredited? (Parent)

Even if a regulatory body licenses parts of your facility or operation, accreditation says more. Risk management experts agree that a regular, systematic evaluation of your entire operation is critical. Accreditation provides such an overall review. In fact, lower insurance rates are possible with accreditation.

As a new director, the accreditation standards gave me the framework and guidelines to be sure I had all my bases covered -- that I had not overlooked some critical area. (Camp Director)

Accreditation can verify to your board and funding sources that you comply with industry-accepted guidelines. Materials developed in the accreditation process can become a resource for training staff.

When you choose accreditation, you also benefit from the on-going research and legal review of standards, helping you keep your operation up-to-date and on th cutting edge of your profession.

Selecting the appropriate accreditation options requires evaluating the structure and focus of your operation.

Many camps and centers that operate year-round will need more than one type of accreditation -- Camp Accreditation for their summer youth camp program and either Site Approval or Conference/Retreat Center Accreditation for their September-through-May operation.

Whether you have a history with accreditation in camping, or are new to accreditation, earning this mark of distinction can be of great value -- an indicator of your commitment to quality.

COPYRIGHT 1994 American Camping Association
COPYRIGHT 2004 Gale Group