The distinction comes after a thorough on-site assessment that found mission-focused, person-first care at every level of operations

BETHEL, CT — Ability Beyond, one of the largest providers of disability care in the region, has achieved the gold standard of accreditation from CARF International for its commitment to quality, accountability, and standards of service delivery.

“When stakeholders were asked to give a one-word description of Ability Beyond, they used the terms ‘dedicated,’ ‘family,’ ‘concerned,’ and ‘compassionate,’” wrote one of the seven professional surveyors who conducted the intensive CARF audit. “The persons served expressed that they felt safe and respected.”

Ability Beyond has continuously earned CARF accreditation since the 1970s.

“To achieve this distinction is a testament to how we live and breathe our mission at Ability Beyond,” said President/CEO Jane Davis. “We take our charge seriously to discover, build, and celebrate the abilities in all people—not only the thousands of people we’re privileged to serve, but all the uniquely qualified members of our team, from direct care to executive staff.”

Key strengths that CARF surveyors highlighted included: 

• Quality of life-changing care grounded in safety, respect, and holistic, individualized support. As a result, surveyors noted that people who are medically vulnerable are more likely to age in place with Ability Beyond, receiving comprehensive care at home and supported by long-term staff relationships.
• Disability equity and community enrichment through innovative programs that promote independence and social integration—from universal design housing and assistive technology, to pioneering employment programs that boast high job placement rates for folks with disabilities at every stage of career.
• Workplace culture and DEIB efforts that emphasize recognition, professional development, and career advancement. As a result, longevity is the norm at Ability Beyond, with many employees having tenures of 20 to 30 years.

One CARF surveyor wrote:  “Parents and guardians expressed high satisfaction with the services their family members receive at Ability Beyond and appreciation for the positive impact that the staff has had on their lives. One of the guardians stated they could sleep at night because they knew their loved one was well cared for.”

To earn three-year accreditation, Ability Beyond undertook a rigorous peer review of programs, services, staff, and organizational operations that spanned two days in February 2024. 

To maintain the distinction, the agency must comply with annual reporting requirements and operate in alignment with research-backed CARF standards. The full report is available on our website.