NEWARK – When you or a loved one is struggling, you want to be sure you are getting accurate trustworthy information and referrals. How can you do that? Make sure you are contacting an organization that has proven to meet national standards and best practices.
Pathways of Central Ohio announces that it has been reaccredited by Inform USA (formerly AIRS) for a period of five years.
The organization underwent the rigorous process, which typically takes 12 months and involves five phases, including the following:
•Consultant’s report that assessed the agency’s compliance with national standards
•Detailed review of the resource database
•Secret shopper component
•Survey of the organizations who are listed on their resource database
•Virtual site visit
This accreditation underscores Pathways of Central Ohio’s adherence to best practices in helping people get connected to the right resources to meet their needs, whether it is food, heating assistance, or counseling.
Individuals can access these services via their phone line, text, and the online resource database. It is the organization’s third time achieving this honor. The previous accreditations were in 2012 and 2017.
“Pathways has been providing 211 to Licking County since 2007 and to Knox County since 2008,” said Kristin McCloud, executive director. “In addition, we provide 211 services to Pickaway, Washington, Athens, Crawford, and Marion Counties.
“To reach us, residents can simply dial 211 or text their zip code to 898211. To reach our online resource database, visit www.navigateresources.net/chic. All services are available 24/7/365.”
Inform USA accredits approximately 125 agencies in the United States and Canada and is a 501c3 nonprofit agency. Accredited organizations include all types of information and referral providers such as 211, Aging and Disability Resource Centers, Specialty I&R, etc. The size of the organizations ranges from two staff to over 100. Services are available in many parts of North America.