EAGLE expands its reach to Puerto Rico

“Blessed are they who come in the name of the Lord.”

Since 1653, these words have greeted visitors passing through the San Juan gates on the island of Puerto Rico. In June, a team of EAGLE peer reviewers experienced God’s blessings when they completed site visits for three Puerto Rican agencies that successfully pursued EAGLE accreditation for the first time.

Kelly Berger, Board of Child Care; Ray Barr, Florida United Methodist Children’s Home; Matt Obert, Chaddock Trauma & Attachment Services and Shawn Peterson, Cunningham Children’s Home spent nearly six months reviewing the self-studies for three faith-based agencies serving children, youth and families. Kelly, Ray and Matt travelled to Puerto Rico while Shawn participated virtually via Zoom. Emily Robbearts, Senior Director of EAGLE Accreditation, also accompanied the team to assist with logistics and support.

View our short slide show that provides just a glimpse into the agencies we proudly welcome into the EAGLE network.

While the team relied on the help of many translators during interviews and document reviews, the commitment to excellence and demonstration of faith-centered missions was easily interpreted. At each site, God’s love was evident in the care provided the clients, in the supportive relationships between the Board members, leadership and the staff; and in the hospitality and grace extended to the review team.

EAGLE’s expansion to Puerto Rico was the result of EAGLE’s recognition as an approved accrediting body under the Family First Prevention Services Act (FFPSA). The process was further supported by UMA’s partnership with Accreditation Guru to provide bilingual consultation that helped the agencies better understand the EAGLE requirements and steps in the accreditation process. Building on this success, we look forward to the opportunity become the preferred accrediting partner of other faith-based ministries in Puerto Rico.