Accreditation for Corps Programs

The Corps Network is dedicated to the promotion of quality programming and standards for Conservation Corps across America

The Corps Network launched its Corps Center of Excellence Accreditation program in 2014. Accreditation is granted to Corps that can demonstrate:

A high level of accountability to funders and donors,
The capacity to provide meaningful programming to Corpsmembers, and
Quality results to community and project partners.

The Accreditation program is administered by an advisory committee of former Corps leaders, former federal land management agency staff, and other experts in Corps and youth programming.

To become Accredited, a Corps must undergo an in-depth review of its general operations, youth programming operations, governance standards, financial management practices, and risk management guidelines. The process involves a site visit as well as a thorough assessment of the Corp’s administrative documents and policies. Accreditation lasts for five years with the requirement that Corps provide an annual update to the advisory committee.

Endorsements

In addition to receiving general Accreditation, Corps can invite additional scrutiny to become Accredited with endorsements that recognize their experience or capacity.

Education Corps
Corps that provide programming designed to help Corpsmembers obtain a high school-level credential and advance to postsecondary education.
Workforce Development Corps
Corps that receive funding from YouthBuild and/or the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), or offer formalized training to increase work-readiness of Corpsmembers, provide connections to employers, provide connections to workforce-related supportive services, etc.