The Arc of Atlantic County is pleased to announce that it has achieved Person-Centered Excellence Accreditation from the Council on Quality and Leadership (CQL). This prestigious accomplishment demonstrates that The Arc of Atlantic County is aligning with some of the highest standards in the human services field. Person-Centered Excellence Accreditation recognizes the organization’s implementation of person-centered practices that have a significant impact on the lives of people with disabilities.
“This is a great achievement and we’re honored to partner with The Arc of Atlantic County on their accreditation!” says Mary Kay Rizzolo, President and Chief Executive Officer of CQL | The Council on Quality and Leadership. “They’re showing people supported, families, employees, and others, that they’re committed to quality services that help people’s dreams come true.”
Since 1961, The Arc of Atlantic County has improved the lives of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) in our community. Through direct services, advocacy, education and prevention activities, we work in partnership with individuals and their families to make choices possible about how and where they live, learn, work and play.
“The Arc of Atlantic County has proudly maintained accreditation by the Council on Quality and Leadership (CQL) since 2004 and notably, was the first agency in New Jersey serving individuals with (IDD) to earn this distinction,” commented Pat Jones, Chief Operating Officer. “Our unwavering commitment to excellence in information, advocacy and service drives us to continuously make a positive impact, empowering individuals to live the lives they choose,” Jones added.
Person-Centered Excellence Accreditation, a four-year term, is awarded to organizations that meet CQL’s rigorous standards, deeply integrate CQL tools and approaches, and establish a quality management system to drive data-based decision-making. The accreditation process involves the validation of a Basic Assurances® Self-Assessment, implementation of the Personal Outcome Measures®, and alignment with Shared Values, along with various planning meetings, visits, focus groups, and consultation with CQL staff members. At the conclusion of the initial accreditation review, The Arc of Atlantic County held a stakeholder event with a diverse group of participants. They collaborated on the development of a What Really Matters plan, which establishes action steps for reaching organizational goals.
“Congratulations to the team from The Arc of Atlantic County! We’re lucky to work with them on their accreditation and look forward to a long-lasting partnership,” adds Katherine Dunbar, Vice President of Services and Systems Excellence of CQL | The Council on Quality and Leadership.
For more information, please contact Mary Ruley Moyer, Director of Development and Community Outreach, 609-485-0800 x 135 or mmoyer@thearcatlantic.org.
