Acreditation
At Aftercare International, we adopt the definition of accreditation as 'an acknowledgment of a person or institution's responsibility and achievement.' Our goal is to recognize the hard work shelters are doing to support survivors while partnering with them to ensure survivors receive ethical, compassionate, and high-quality care.
The Journey to Global Accreditation
Aftercare International was formed in 2019 with three primary goals: to create a global network of shelters that could collaborate and learn from one another; to elevate the level of care by sharing proven practices worldwide; and to provide support, including technology, that would enable research in this relatively new field to better guide those serving survivors.
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The concept of accrediting shelters worldwide emerged from a deep passion for providing direct care to survivors of trafficking. It became evident that making a meaningful difference required more than just good intentions. Quality care demands education, expertise, and hands-on experience. Serving vulnerable populations, particularly survivors of trafficking, carries a profound responsibility—one that calls for humility, reverence, and deep respect for their experiences. This insight, shaped by a business mindset and a commitment to impact, laid the foundation for developing a global accreditation system aimed at supporting and enhancing the level of care worldwide.
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In 2021, Aftercare International opened its first home in Costa Rica for vulnerable adolescents exiting the child welfare system. Later, ACI opened another home for young mothers and women not yet ready for independent living. The challenges of these experiences gave us deeper insights into the specific needs of these populations and highlighted the importance of thoughtful, tailored care approaches.
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For Aftercare International's purposes, we define accreditation as “an acknowledgment of a person or institution’s responsibility and achievement." We recognize the hard work being done around the world to assist survivors, and we aim to be their fellow travelers, helping and supporting them along the way. At the same time, we ensure that survivors are cared for ethically, with the love and compassion they deserve.
Core Principles of Our Accreditation Approach
Identify strengths, challenges, and opportunities to provide operational support.
Learn from those on the ground and foster collaboration to elevate best practices.
Research on various operational models to better support service providers.
Provide a sense of belonging and community for shelters to avoid operating in isolation.
Understand and vet operations to connect donors with opportunities that align with their values.
Stakeholders
Survivors
From the survivor's point of view, accreditation adds a layer of accountability to those
providing services for them. Big hearts are needed, but doing this work comes with the
responsibility to deliver qualified service.
Agencies
From the perspective of other agencies in the field, an Aftercare International endorsement adds a layer of trust knowing that the home is not operating in isolation.
Shelters
From the home's perspective, our accreditation provides a second set of eyes (audit); it helps them tell their story with a witness of their efforts when seeking funds; and it gives then a collaborator who recognizes their hard work.
Donors
From a donor perspective, accreditation provides a level of security, but not a guarantee, that their funds will be spent wisely. Donors are encouraged to further vet potential recipients by allowing Aftercare International to facilitate ongoing contact with the organization.
The Accreditation Process
The Method
We have developed a formula for accreditation that begins with a thorough survey of the shelter operations (see figure on the right). At the center of the circle is the “heart and soul” of the shelter—what they do and how they care for survivors. Surrounding this core are various elements of operational integrity, which ensure that the shelter's day-to-day functions support its long-term sustainability.
The degree to which a shelter develops from the inside out reflects its level of operational professionalism and accountability. This inside-out development model also informs how different donors perceive the shelter, as some may focus more on the internal mission, while others emphasize operational performance and external accountability.
Why Choose ACI Accreditation? Choosing ACI accreditation connects you to a global network of dedicated aftercare providers committed to transforming the lives of survivors. Our process supports your organization every step of the way, helping you reach the highest standards of care while amplifying your capacity for lasting impact. Partnering with ACI means becoming part of a community that believes in the power of quality care to restore dignity and create brighter futures for survivors. Benefits of ACI Accreditation Improved Quality of Care: Ensures consistent, high-quality care prioritizing survivors' well-being and safety. Increased Credibility and Trust: Signals to donors and stakeholders your commitment to excellence, ethics, and accountability. Access to Resources and Support: Gain access to ACI’s resources, including training, best practices, and funding opportunities. Collaboration and Community Building: Join a collaborative network that encourages knowledge-sharing, peer support, and innovation in survivor care. Cost for the agency? None.