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A&FRC unveils accreditation

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Ashley L. Gardner
  • 20th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. --  On Feb. 26, the 20th Force Support Squadron Airman and Family Readiness Center unveiled their achieved national accreditation and plaque.

They are the first center in Air Combat Command with no deficiencies, through the New York-based Council on Accreditation.

The COA is an international, independent, non-profit, child-and family-service and behavioral healthcare accrediting organization. Originally known as an accrediting body for family and children's agencies, the COA currently accredits 50 different service areas and over 125 types of programs.

"The accreditation itself is a true team effort," said Lt. Col. Tara White, 20th FSS commander. "The A&FRC staff work very well together and the accreditation is proof of that. The COA validates how well the A&FRC is taking care of Team Shaw."

The A&FRC provides preparation information and on-going education and assistance to individuals, families and leadership.

These efforts are aimed at preparing military members and families to be optimally prepared for all circumstances of military life.

Programs offered by the A&FRC include a variety of services and incentives such as single parent programs, financial advisory, childcare and transitioning programs. Services provided are open to Department of Defense card holders.

"The event's purpose is to commemorate the A&FRC in its efforts to become nationally accredited," said Erica Brown, 20th FSS community readiness technician. "The COA was designed to achieve accreditation for an organization based upon written evidence of compliance with applicable standards. These standards emphasize family services core areas, ensuring confidence in the credibility, integrity and success of the organization. Shaw AFB is one of only five Air Force bases that has received this accreditation."