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ProLiteracy
is the only body that accredits local adult education and literacy organizations
in the United States. Accreditation raises the credibility-and enhances the visibility-of
literacy organizations as members of their communities and as effective participants
in the greater adult education system. Accreditation is currently available
to organizations that provide literacy instruction primarily through the use of
volunteers. The accreditation process gives local organizations a structured
approach to planning and evaluation based on nationally-recognized standards.
Accreditation helps local literacy providers sharpen their focus on outcomes and
performance measures, thus improving the quality of their services and the success
of their programs. Accreditation is an optional service that is one of
many benefits available to ProLiteracy group members. For more information about
membership, click here. To
download a brochure about accreditation, the actual accreditation standards, or
a description of the process, use the links at the bottom of this page. Members
that apply for accreditation don't have to wait until the process is completed
to benefit; ProLiteracy's Accreditation spurs positive organizational improvements
almost as soon as the process begins. Accreditation, which is renewable
every four years, is based on a continuous improvement model. The renewal process
enables previously accredited groups to take their organizations "to the next
level" in terms of program improvement and value to their community.  "Our
organization became accredited in 2000. Since that time we have worked not only
to maintain but also to improve the practices this important process helped us
establish. Successfully renewing our status as an accredited ProLiteracy member
is now a board-approved policy of the Adult Literacy League that has materially
strengthened all aspects of program service and organizational management. Accreditation
is not only a tool for making successful program improvements, or needed corrections,
but also a means by which quality and success can be affirmed. This is important
to volunteers, students, board, and staff, and also noticed equally by funders
and community partners. Everyone likes to support a successful organization, and
accreditation is the best means available for any member to establish an imprimatur
of excellence." - Joyce Whidden, Adult Literacy League, Orlando, FL
Please
e-mail your questions to ProLiteracy at accreditation@proliteracy.org,
or call Mark Cass, accreditation coordinator, at (315) 422-9121 ext. 313. Downloads
(PDF)
 Accreditation
Brochure
Accreditation
Standards
Steps
to Accreditation | 
