Spectrum Network awarded accreditation for all programs

CARF International announced that The Spectrum Network has been awarded a three-year accreditation for all of its programs. This award is the fifth consecutive three-year accreditation granted to The Spectrum Network, which provides employment services, job training, and daily living assistance to people with disabilities and other barriers.

CARF (Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities) is an independent, international accrediting body whose mission is to promote the quality, value and optimal outcomes of services. CARF establishes consumer-focused standards to help organizations measure and improve the quality of their programs.

A three-year accreditation is the highest award given by CARF. To earn it, The Spectrum Network underwent a rigorous peer review and demonstrated to a team of surveyors during an on-site visit that its services are of the highest quality, measurable, and accountable.

In a letter to The Spectrum Network Executive DirectorToni Smith, CARF president Brian J. Boon said, "This achievement is an indication of your organization's dedication and commitment to improving the lives of the persons served. Services, personnel, and documentation clearly indicate an established pattern of practice excellence."

Included in CARF's survey report is an "exemplary" commendation for the development and publication of the book, From My Perspective: Essays about Disability. Published in August 2009, the collection includes writings by community members on their experiences living with disability, or working with persons with disabilities. The book is available at area libraries and can be purchased from Luther Book Shop, the Decorah and Cresco chambers of commerce, Spectrum Thrift Store, Disciple Maker Bookstore in Cresco, and The Spectrum Network.