what  is  accreditation  & why  is  it  important?

Accreditation can best be described as a quality assurance process that camps may participate in to verify that they meet a rigorous and standardized set of service and operational guidelines. A camp accredited by the American Camp Association, Illinois has gone through this process with a knowledgeable, trained volunteer and camp professional who ensures that the camp meets the National ACA Standards and is qualified to facilitate programs being offered. 

The importance of accreditation is that it establishes a set of quality standards for all camps and camp programs.

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Accreditation  helps  you  establish

a  quality  assurance  process

with  industry  standards.

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Accreditation:
​
​1) Provides a self-regulatory alternative for state oversight functions;
2) Demonstrates your commitment to the profession;
3) Improves skills and knowledge; and
4) Reflects your achievement.

accreditation  increases  a camp or agency's 

access  to  funding  opportunities.

Accreditation also:
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1) Shows funders, and clients, that your organization and its personnel have the skills and knowledge needed to provide camp services in their best interest in accordance with all applicable regulations; and
2) Creates goals for the camp to continue growth and self-improvement.

accreditation  helps  to

maintain  industry  confidence.​

Accreditation helps to:
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1) Enhance your professional image;
2) Demonstrate to the general public your camp and organization's willingness
to participate in a voluntary process, showcasing your interest in continuous
​self-evaluation and self-improvement; and
3) Set your camp apart as a leader in your field.

accreditation  ensures  the  accountability of

advance  public  support  & confidence.

Accreditation not only enhances your professional image, it also:

1) Assures clients and potential clients that your camp meets nationally
accepted standards for the camp industry; and
2) Helps parents determine if a camp is acceptable for their campers enrollment.

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interested  in  getting  involved?

At ACA Illinois we love when people get involved! If you’re interested in getting more involved, current opportunities include:

     +  Joining as an Accredited Camp/ Program Member
     +  Becoming an Accreditation Visitor
     +  Serving on our Standards Committee
​     +  Becoming a Standards Instructor

contact  us

To talk with us about getting involved, or for questions about reasons to become accredited, contact us at: info@acail.org or 312-332-0833.