Process

Step 1:  Application Phase

1. Complete the interest form located here
2. Candidate Agency selects Accreditation Manager to oversee the program
3. Contract and ILEAC accreditation standards are sent to the agency
4. The accreditation fee must be received along with the return contract 
5. Accreditation Manager receives appropriate training as provided by ILEAC

Step 2:  Self-assessment Phase

1. Thorough examination of existing policies and procedures.
2. In-house system developed to collect information regarding compliance with standards.
3. Prepare forms and collect proofs of compliance for each standard.
4. Prepares for 2 day on-site assessment by ILEAC Assessors.

Step 3:  On-site Assessment

1. Agency contacts ILEAC to request the on-site assessment.
2. ILEAC selects assessors from an available pool to conduct the on-site assessment.
3. ILEAC makes all lodging and per diem arrangements for the assessment team (if applicable).
4. Assessors review all standards and verify the agency’s compliance with those standards through file review, interview, observation, etc.
5. The assessment team provides ILEAC with a formal written report regarding their findings during the on-site.
6. The candidate agency is provided a copy of the final report from ILEAC.
7. Assessor Team Makes Recommendation of Accreditation to the commission.

Step 4: Maintaining Compliance

1. Accreditation must be maintained on an annual basis.
2. To maintain accredited status, the accredited agency must remain in compliance with applicable standards. The agency submits Annual Reports to the Program Director attesting to continued compliance and reporting changes or difficulties experienced during the year, including actions taken to resolve noncompliance.

3. At the conclusion of the three-year period, the Commission offers the agency an opportunity to repeat the process and continue accredited status into the future