Not only has VocWorks earned Three-Year Accreditation by the Commission on Accreditation for Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF)—for Job Development, Job Supports and Job-Site Training under the Employment Services, Community Employment Services CARF programs—the company has also earned the distinction of being in the top 3% of all companies accredited by CARF.

The 3% distinction means that CARF surveyors did not identify any areas of nonconformance to the standards during its onsite visit to VocWorks. It is extremely rare and notable for CARF to not make any recommendations for improvement.

According to a letter from CARF president and CEO Brian Boon, Ph.D., this achievement is an indication of VocWorks’ “dedication and commitment to improving the quality of the lives of the people it serves.”

The Survey Summary that accompanied the accreditation indicated that VocWorks has strengths in many areas, including:

• VocWorks has a corporate culture of “getting things done” by removing barriers and increasing efficiencies in daily operations. Management team members who are committed to success contribute to an atmosphere of optimism and driving for results. Associates as specifically evaluated on their drive for results.
• VocWorks strategic plan is written in a format that clearly portrays its corporate mission and values, its ultimate goals and its strategies for success.
• VocWorks ethical codes are written in a fashion that demonstrates its genuine commitment to doing the right things for the right reasons.  Appreciation for the codes was evident throughout all levels of the organization.
• VocWorks accessibility to persons served is apparent in its approach to bringing the service directly to them.
• The geographical area covered by VocWorks is urban to rural throughout the entire state of Ohio. This is a tremendous undertaking, and vocational rehabilitation professionals noted the professionalism and nimble nature of the service delivery to persons served who might not access services otherwise.
• VocWorks is fortunate to have a professional team that is visible in the community and helps consumers map out their employment goals.
• Persons served receive support tailored to their needs, along with encouraging self-advocacy skills. Career planning is cognizant of consumer choice, skill level, and opportunities that minimize barriers.

On balance, VocWorks is providing effective services that are meeting the needs of the persons served and the referral source.  An administrative structure that demonstrates maturity in a fairly young organization supports the services to deliver results.  Performance is consistently monitored at individual, program, service and regional levels to provide information so that the management team may make adjustments for quicker and more efficient attainment of goals.

VocWorks commitment to being best in class should inspire the organization to continue to use the CARF standards in its pursuit of excellence.  VocWorks is encouraged to continue to be involved with CARF on its journey.

*CARF is an international, not-for-profit organization that accredits human services providers. Founded in 1966 as the Commission on Accreditation for Rehabilitation Facilities, the accrediting body is now known as CARF.

For more information on VocWorks’ CARF accreditation, please contact Kimberly Wickert, Director of Rehabilitation and Business Development at 1-877-641-2010 or email her at kimberly.wickert@vocworks.com.