Rufty-Holmes Senior Center has had its accreditation renewed by the National Institute of Senior Centers, according to a press release from Rufty-Holmes.
First accredited in 2001, the nonprofit center was granted renewal in 2006 before undergoing its third review this fall.
Jean Williams of the Newark, Del. Senior Center served as the on-site peer reviewer, visiting Rufty-Holmes over a two-day period in early November. An off-site review of materials was conducted by Sue Orr of the Johnson City, Tenn. Senior Center.
Their report and recommendation was acted upon by the National Accreditation Board a few weeks later. The renewal became effective Nov. 22.
According to the press release, the National Accreditation Board commended Rufty-Holmes on fulfilling its mission in a professional manner, citing:
• A well developed strategic planning process
• A high level of involvement by the board of directors and senior participants
• Excellent community support and collaborations
• A well-qualified and dedicated staff
• An expansive and well-maintained facility
• A wonderful variety of activities
• Excellent use of evidence-based programs and outcome measures
The center was also commended for its seamless integration of senior services previously provided by the county into its operation this past summer, the press release said.
Growth recommendations included stretching resources by engaging older adult volunteers in roles that staff members currently provide, as well as investigating ways to use social media in marketing the center.
As part of the process leading up to the accreditation review, the center conducted a self-assessment involving an accreditation committee made up of board members, staff, center volunteers and participants and community representatives.
The accreditation committee met for nine months, conducting a comprehensive review of the national standards and evaluating the center’s compliance with them.
In order to better address newer standards during the review process, the center formalized its evaluation process, developed a new continuity of operations and disaster readiness plan, upgraded its personnel policies, created a volunteer handbook and established a code of ethics for board members, staff and volunteers.
Of the estimated 11,000 senior centers nationwide, Rufty-Holmes is one of only 204 to be nationally accredited. It was the first of three in North Carolina to be accredited, the press release said, and is one of only seven in the United States to have successfully completed the accreditation process three times.
Rufty-Holmes serves as the county’s aging resource center, the press release said, providing community-based programs and services designed to promote independent living and enrich the quality of life for local senior adults.
For more information on Rufty-Holmes Senior Center, go to www.ruftyholmes.org