2021 CARF Survey Results
Side by Side Brain has received a CARF Accreditation for the following:
Community Integration
Governance Standards Applied
One member stated that the program “brings it all out, what I can do.”
What did the CARF surveyor’s report indicate were some of strengths of Side by Side?
The Executive Director is commended for her creativity and innovative ideas in seeking all available ways to provide services to members and advocating for the Clubhouse Model of rehabilitation.
The leadership team is a dedicated and committed group of professionals who all work in harmony to support each other.
A strong and involved governing board is a great strength to the organization. It includes a diverse membership that contributes to the success of the organization.
The relationship the organization has developed with Shepherd Center has been a strength of the organization.
The addition of the COO has been a strength to the organization.
A vigorous fundraising program also supports the financial stability of the organization.
Side by Side’s building is aesthetically pleasing to both the members and the staff. Renovations have enhanced the welcoming environment, and it demonstrates an especially healthy and safe environment.
The organization enjoys longevity of personnel and a low turnover rate. This is due to the respectful and appreciative environment provided by the leadership.
Excellent policies and procedures exist for virtual provision of services that were expediently established in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The addition of a software program for the health records of the members is an asset to the program’s accessibility to this information.
A strong person-centered approach exists for each member. This is evident throughout intake process, during goal assessment process, and in the members’ individual program plans. The Clubhouse Model involves members in the operations of the program at many levels. For example, on member has taught Spanish to English-speaking members. The members can choose from different units offering different skill sets, such as the kitchen unit, the business unit, and the maintenance unit. There are also numerous opportunities for volunteering in the community.
Interviews with members indicated a high level of satisfaction. One member stated that the program “brings it all out, what I can do.” Additionally, members indicated that the organization provides a sense of structure and helps them add to their skill set.
The referral sources expressed a high degree of satisfaction. Of particular note is the good communication between referral sources and the organization.
Staff members demonstrated a high degree of satisfaction with the organization, highlighting how appreciated they felt and the respectful treatment from the leadership.
What does that mean for you?
Persons served and their families look for organizations that are accredited as a sign of quality when looking for services.
Accreditation is evidence to persons served that an organization has demonstrated its commitment to encouraging feedback, continuously improving services, enhancing performance, and managing risk. Persons served and their families can be confident that services will be focused on their unique needs.
What is CARF?
CARF International is an independent, nonprofit accreditor of health and human services providers in the areas of Aging Services, Behavioral Health, Child and Youth Services, Durable Medical Equipment, Employment and Community Services, Medical Rehabilitation, Opioid Treatment Programs, and Vision Rehabilitation Services. CARF assists service providers in improving the quality of their services by applying sets of quality standards during an on-site survey.
When a service or program is CARF accredited, it means it has undergone an in-depth review of its services and demonstrated substantial conformance to the CARF standards during the on-site survey. The service or program has demonstrated its commitment to delivering quality services that focus on your needs and preferences.
For more information about CARF International, the standards, or the survey process, visit www.carf.org.