Achievement Centers for Children

“The president, executive vice president of finance, and controller participate and review initially. An ad-hoc committee is formed (comprised of members of the agency's finance committee and executive committee, and including the treasurer). The president, executive vice president of finance and controller meet with the ad-hoc committee to present the draft 990 and all supporting documentation for their review. The 990 is also given to each board member via e-mail before it is filed.”

“Each director, principal officer, and member of a committee with board delegated powers shall annually sign a statement, which affirms that such person: (a) has received a copy of the conflicts of interest policy; (b) has read and understands the policy; (c) has agreed to comply with the policy; and (d) understands that the corporation is a charitable organization and that in order to maintain its federal tax exemption it must engage primarily in activities which accomplish one or more of its tax-exempt purposes.”

“Compensation for the president is determined and set by the executive committee of the board of directors. The committee, none of whom have a conflict of interest with respect to this issue, deliberate among themselves, consult mutliple compensation surveys, and consult with other non-profit boards in order to set the compensation level. The committee is also able to access public information regarding executive compensation in other non-profit organizations. Some of the compensation surveys used are: charity navigator, oano/united way, employer's resource counsel, and more. While the president sets the compensation level for officers, managers, and key employees, this is done after consulting compensation surveys, market conditions, and having an awareness of what other non-profits pay for similar postions. Additionally, all compensation is included in the agency's budget, and the budget is reviewed and approved by our independent board of directors.”

“All the aforementioned documents are made available to the public upon request.”

“Primary exempt purpose and program service accomplishments the mission of the achievement centers for children is to empower children and adults with disabilities and their families to achieve their greatest potential. For over 80 years, the achievement centers for children (acc) has served children and adults with a broad range of disabilities and special needs including autism, cerebral palsy, down syndrome, and other physical, developmental, neurological and emotional challenges. From the beginning, the agency has demonstrated a commitment to careful planning and thoughtful evolution in programming, services and facilities to best meet the needs of those with disabilities throughout northeast ohio. Acc uses a family-centered approach to provide critical comprehensive services for children and adults with disabilities and their families at three area locations: highland hills, westlake, and camp cheerful in strongsville. Each family works in partnership with an interdisciplinary team to design a program that will meet the needs and achieve the goals of each client and their family. While we serve clients across their lifespan through a variety of programs, the services provided by acc are rooted in the philosophy of early intervention and 75% of the non-recreational clients we serve are under age 5. Research demonstrates that the earlier resources and supports are made available to families, especially economically disadvantaged families or families with additional challenges, the better the future outcomes for the child, family and society. More than 3,100 children and adults with disabilities and their familes received services from acc this year with many children and families participating in more than one of our programs and services. We work not only with the children who have special needs but also actively involve the entire family. We help families deal with the often challenging and emotional times that accompany raising a child with a disability. We are partners in a family's journey and help children and their families find hope and help. Families know that whatever the challenge, whatever the outcome, they have access to expertise and resources. Raising a child with a disability can be a difficult journey, but families need not feel alone; they have a partner in the achievement centers and can rely on and turn to us when they need assistance. Approximately 5,300 services and over 142,500 service hours were provided to our clients this year. Acc is committed to assuring that no family will go without access to critical and necessary intervention. With 75% of the families we serve considered low- to moderate-income, we view service regardless of ability to pay as a valued tenet of our agency philosophy. For those families who are able to pay for services, acc offers a sliding fee scale to minimize financial burden. We are a "four star rated charity" (highest possible) by charity navigator. Of every dollar raised, over 84 cents goes directly for the benefit of our clients and to further our mission. The agency is accredited by carf (commission on accreditation of rehabilitation). Our diverse programs address the often complex needs of children with disabilities and their families. Our caring, experienced and competent staff provide services that address several key areas: education, including a specialized school for children with autism for k through high school, family support services, therapy services, and recreation including our adult day program.”

“Additional disclosure: the unrestricted net assets at year end 06/30/2022 were as follows: undesignated 2,241,302 net investment in property and equipment 7,289,334 board designated endowment 12,341,786 total unrestricted $21,872,422 we invite interested individuals to visit our website at www.achievementcenters.org”

“Bad debt -258,417. Change in value of beneficial interests -167,627.”