Statement of Compliance

American Camp Association Accreditation describes the operations of the programs and services by an owner/director. This may be sought by a camp operating on its own property, on the property belonging to someone else, or by camps who rent/lease facilities to other groups who retain the responsibility for part or all of their own program. Accreditation applies to all camp programs and services offered under the same camp name throughout the year, except for single day events.

Past Accreditation Process Updates

Update - October 2015

In early September, ACA members were informed of a forthcoming change to the accreditation process. This change, rolled out over the next 3 years, would mean that eligible*, accredited camps would complete an Annual Accreditation Report in non-visit years and would shift over time to a five-year visit cycle. As ACA staff and volunteers continue to work on the implementation of this change, we would like to share the following information.

Operational Change to ACA Accreditation

After evaluation of the implementation of the Operational Change that occurred in nine of the twenty-three local areas in ACA in 2016, it was determined that all additional local areas will be included in Phase 2 of the implementation, which occurs in 2017. This means that moving forward (2017 and beyond), all currently accredited camps will either have an on-site visit or must complete the Annual Accreditation Report. Information about what is required of your camp has being shared via email from your local staff and volunteers.

Big R, Little r; Big A, Little a

With ACA’s new strategic focus on accreditation and research comes the need to evolve our practices and services at a national level. In order to accomplish these important tasks, two special task forces have been working diligently to prepare recommendations that will address these programs on a national level. While these national tasks forces are looking at how this new focus on research and accreditation (or BIG R and BIG A, as we’ve taken to calling them) will play out nationally, many have asked what they can to advance this strategy at the local level.

Access 2014 Revisions to ACA Standards

Submitted by pbidwell@acacam... on Wed, 2015-10-28 10:01
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More Information on Changes in the ACA Accreditation Process

In early September, ACA members were informed of a forthcoming change to the accreditation process. This change, rolled out over the next three years, would mean that eligible*, accredited camps would complete an Annual Accreditation Report in non-visit years and would shift over time to a five-year visit cycle. As ACA staff and volunteers continue to work on the implementation of this change, we would like to share the following information.

Criminal Background Checks - Issues and Resources for Camps

ACA believes that camps should utilize multifaceted screening and hiring programs and support practices appropriate to the clientele, staffing, supervision, and program consideration of each camp.

Your Accreditation Status - Fun and Safety

ACA Camps Set the Standards

Prestige
Parents nationwide recognize the importance of ACA accreditation when choosing a camp for their child, and they expect you to reach far beyond the minimum state and local regulations. ACA-accreditation status is solid proof of a camp's accountability, credibility, and commitment.

Accreditation Announcement Letter

ACA a benefit to members, ACA provides sample letters and newsreleases.

You want everyone to know how hard you've worked to achieve accreditation - especially those decision makers and funding bodies upon whom your camp relies. Make a point to tell them about it, and encourage questions while you build enthusiasm! Log in to view a form letter designed to announce your camp's accomplishment. Block and copy the letter, and paste it into your word processor.  Use your camp's stationery and fill in the information about your camp where words are written in CAPITAL letters. 

 

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