Based on an intensive three-day, on-site survey process conducted by CARF, Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas recently was notified it received a three-year accreditation for its programs that provide services to individuals with developmental disabilities.

The accreditation outcome represents the highest level of accreditation that can be awarded to an organization and shows DSNWK’s substantial conformance to the standards established by CARF. By receiving a Three Year Accreditation and putting itself through a rigorous peer review process, DSNWK continues to demonstrate that its programs and services are of the highest quality, measurable, and accountable.

“We take great pride in this achievement,” DSNWK President Jerry Michaud said. “Receiving a three year accreditation by CARF was made possible because of the tireless dedication of our staff. It is through their hard work and commitment that DSNWK continues to maintain a high level of quality programs and services for people with developmental disabilities, even amidst these most difficult times.”

CARF sent five surveyors to review DSNWK over a three-day period. The surveyors came from all over the country and looked at DSNWK’s programs and services.

“The organization has distinguished itself as a quality provider through its person centeredness; creativity; and the high degree of satisfaction expressed by persons served, families, referral sources, and community partners,” the CARF Survey Summary reads. “The organization is commended for its highly regarded program and services, strong leadership, and dedicated staff.”

DSNWK provides services and programs to those with developmental disabilities in an 18-county area in Northwest Kansas. Developmental centers and offices are located in Atwood, Hays, Hill City, Hoxie, Norton, Oakley, Russell and Stockton.

CARF is an independent, nonprofit accrediting body whose mission is to promote the quality, value, and optimal outcomes of services through a consultative accreditation process that centers on enhancing the lives of the persons served. Founded in 1966 as the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities, and now known as CARF, the accrediting body establishes consumer-focused standards to help organizations measure and improve the quality of their programs and services. DSNWK has been accredited with CARF since 1976.