Any question of eligibility will be decided by the C.F.A. .
The only direct costs for applicant agencies will be those incurred in the housing, meals, and travel of assessment team members who are involved in the assessment of the host agency, and if certified by the executive board, a one time accreditation fee. This fee will be used to offset those costs associated with accreditation certificates and other program needs as designated by the board. Applicant agencies not affiliated with the founding organizations may be required to pay a $50.00 application fee.
The accreditation process entails four (4) phases. These phases are: Application, Self-Assessment, On-site Assessment, and Board Decision.
Self-Assessment.
The applicant agency initiates a self-assessment to determine compliance with the standards. The agency, upon self-examination, may decide to withdraw its application, in which case it will advise the C.F.A. of its decision. While the agency will be provided detailed instructions for conducting the self-assessment, some agencies may require assistance. That assistance may be requested through the C.F.A. by letter or telephone. Assistance to agencies will be coordinated by DCJS. .
Agencies applying for accredited status may apply for a waiver of individual standards. The agency must submit requests for waivers in writing to the C.F.A. The will be considered on a case-by-case basis, and will generally be granted in those cases where the function required by a standard is not within the agency's area of responsibility. Appeals to this decision can be made to the Chair, whose decision is final. The on-site team has the authority to override waivers approved by the C.F.A. staff.
On-Site Assessment.
When the applicant agency believes it is ready for an on-site assessment, it shall contact C.F.A. Applicant agencies may, if they desire, coordinate with the C.F.A. for either a mock assessment by professional peers, or submit to C.
