The 2024 edition of updates to the standards for COA Accreditation are now available. These targeted enhancements to the standards are the result of our annual update process and include changes based on ongoing collection and analysis of feedback received from our network, collaboration with diverse groups of subject matter experts, and a review of research and professional literature on identified trends and evolving practices.
Our collaborative update process is designed to ensure the standards remain up-to-date, research-based, and field-informed, promoting improved outcomes for individuals, families, and communities.
Who’s Affected
These changes impact private, public, and Canadian organizations seeking COA accreditation or reaccreditation. The 2024 edition of updates will not impact organizations that are currently pursuing accreditation or re-accreditation and have already been assigned standards in the MyCOA portal.
When It Is Happening
Standards assignments for COA Accreditation using the new standards began April 19, 2024.
What’s Changing In Our Standards
Download a full list of standards impacted by the 2024 updates.
Our Standards Update Process
The 2024 COA Accreditation standards updates reflect changes made based on evolving practices, ongoing review of relevant literature, and the continuous feedback we receive from our network, including volunteer reviewers and accredited organizations. More specifically, updating the 2024 Standards involved:
- Collection, in-depth review, and synthesis of prominent published research and professional literature in targeted areas
- Review of standards drafts and discussion of trends in the field with Standards Advisory Panels comprised of subject matter experts, agency leaders, and service providers
- Collection and review of feedback solicited from Social Current’s network, including through the “Provide Feedback” button found in the MyCOA and VIP portals
- Sharing drafts online for a period of field comment to solicit feedback from Social Current’s network and the broader social service sector
Questions?
If you are currently pursuing accreditation or re-accreditation, reach out to your accreditation coordinator.
If you are seeking accreditation for the first time, please contact Joe Perrow.
For additional information about COA Accreditation standards, please contact Melissa Dury.