Youth program accredited ... Again

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Chuck Broadway
  • 9th RW Public Affairs
BEALE AIR FORCE BASE, Calif., --  Beale's youth program recently retained accreditation from the National Afterschool Association for their ability to develop the youth educationally, socially, and recreationally. 

The two-day inspection happens every four years and looks at 144 standards and accreditation recognizes program that are a cut above the rest. 

National Accreditation is not an easy designation to achieve," said Peter Howe, NAA chief operating officer. "Accreditation indicates a long-term commitment to quality, a professionally managed program that is safe and effective, along with a genuine dedication to children and their families." 

According to NAA inspectors, the youth program showed a strong ability to work with children of all ages and each program was tailored to the children's developmental levels. Inspectors also noticed a well arranged and maintained facility, which was fully equipped to support many different activities. 

The inspectors also noted the staff was highly engaged with the youth, something Sue Galmish, 9th Force Support Squadron Youth Program director, is very proud of. 

"The adaptability and diversity of the staff to continuously change as the kids change is outstanding," she said. "Our biggest strength is in the staff (because) everything changes and they mold and produce a well-rounded program. They are committed to the kids, without them there wouldn't be strength in the program." 

The youth program was completely recreational a few years ago and now is an educational-based program focused on youth development. 

Ms. Galmish stated everything the youth program does is geared toward some type of development for the children. Either socially, behaviorally or academically everything is a learning process. Recreation is still a big part of the program and all activities benefit the youth physically and socially. 

"It's a standard to maintain a good, quality program," Ms. Galmish said. "Parents can be confident they're getting a solid program for their kids." 

Soon, the youth program is scheduled for another inspection from the Department of Defense. Ms. Galmish fully expects another outstanding result from this inspection as well.