Accreditation
All members of the California Alliance have been accredited by, or are in the process of being accredited by, a CA Alliance-recognized national accrediting body, including CARF International, the Council on Accreditation (COA), or the Joint Commission. National accreditation reflects a commitment to excellence, accountability, and continuous improvement. For member organizations, it strengthens operations, enhances credibility, and supports better outcomes for children and families.
Accreditation is an evaluation of an agency's operating systems, covering governing body, finances, personnel, safety, and specific programs. It serves as a valuable management tool for executives looking to strengthen mature organizations, develop younger agencies, and elevate programs for the benefit of children and families. For questions, contact Corina Dubon, Vice President of Outreach and Development, at cdubon@cacfs.org.
Accreditation Comparison Guide
The CA Alliance recognizes three national accrediting bodies: CARF International, the Council on Accreditation (COA), and The Joint Commission. While all three uphold rigorous standards of quality and accountability, they differ in structure, timelines, fees, and the program types they serve.
To help members and prospective members navigate those differences, we developed a side-by-side comparison covering each organization's mission, accreditation timeline, survey process, technical assistance, standards access, and fees. Whether you are pursuing accreditation for the first time or considering a different body, this is a helpful starting point.
National Accrediting Organizations
Contact: Theresa Linberg, MSC, LPC, Managing Director of Child and Youth Services
Tlindberg@carf.org
Phone: (520) 495-7162, ext. 7162
Council on Accreditation (COA)
Contact: Tobi Murch, Senior Director of Accreditation Operations
Phone: 212-871-1972
Note: COA OFFERS A 25% DISCOUNT TO ALLIANCE MEMBERS
Accreditation Information: Accreditation | Council on Accreditation (coanet.org)
The Joint Commission
Contact: Nyree C. Reed, MBA, Associate Director of Business Development
nreed@jointcommission.org
Phone: (630) 792-5789
Accreditation Support Resources
The following consultant has experience helping organizations navigate the accreditation process and may be a useful resource for members at any stage.
Accreditation Guru
Jennifer Flowers, President
Email: Jennifer@AccreditationGuru.com
Phone: (212) 945-8504
- Ten Steps to Selecting an Accrediting Body
- Accreditation — Are you prepared?
- Strategic Planning and Board Development