CARF Accreditation

• Assessment and Referral — adults, children and adolescents
• Substance Use Disorder Intensive Outpatient Treatment — adults, children and adolescents
• Substance Use Disorder Outpatient Treatment — adults, children and adolescents

CARF accreditation is a public seal of trust and commitment to quality based on internationally accepted standards. Achieving this accreditation demonstrates Merit Resource Service’s commitment to exceptional, behavioral healthcare. Our organization receiving the highest level of CARF accreditation has undergone a detailed peer-review process and has demonstrated to a team of surveyors, during an on-site visit, our commitment to providing programs and services of the highest quality.

CARF Survey Report March 2026

Strengths

• The foundation and framework established by the leadership team has positioned MERIT to meet the objectives of their vision and mission and sets them up for success with development and growth for the future. Their unmatched dedication and heart for service will result in many advancements in transforming the recovery community it serves in north central Washington Yakima Valley area.

• Stakeholders consistently described the organization and its programs as “transformative” and “very inspiring,” highlighting the meaningful impact services have on the lives of those served. Multiple interviewees attributed the program’s success to the “resolve, determination, and persistence of staff,” noting that team members remain steadfast in supporting individuals through challenges and milestones alike. Funders and community partners further reported that the organization is highly compliant with contractual requirements and consistently responsive in communication, documentation, and follow-through. This combination of mission-driven staff commitment and strong operational accountability reflects a culture of excellence that supports positive outcomes and sustained community trust.

• The organization demonstrates exceptional workforce commitment, with many staff members serving in their roles for an extended period of time. This long tenure contributes to continuity of care, organizational knowledge, and strong therapeutic relationships with persons served and community partners. Throughout the survey, stakeholders repeatedly described staff as compassionate and genuinely caring, noting that their commitment extends beyond job responsibilities to a deep investment in the well-being and success of those served. Teamwork is woven into the fabric of the organization, evident in the collaborative approach to service planning, interdisciplinary communication, and mutual support among employees. This culture of stability, compassion, and collaboration strengthens service delivery and enhances positive outcomes.

• A comprehensive risk management and compliance program ensures the health, safety, and well-being of persons served, staff, and visitors. The agency maintains strong conformance with all regulatory and accreditation requirements, with documented emergency preparedness and infection control plans. Regular safety audits, drills, and staff trainings reinforce a culture of safety and awareness.

• The welcoming and well-maintained facilities at all MERIT locations are clean, attractively furnished, culturally sensitive to the participants, and conducive to the services provided. The facilities offer waiting areas, private offices, and space for children-age participants at some locations. This greatly enhances open communication and trust. The décor in the individual offices and common areas encourage the participants to engage in services.

• MERIT’s staff members recognize the importance of strength-based treatment and infuse principles of recovery throughout the facilities. They focus on helping the participant make lifestyle changes and good choices to support recovery. They work hard to refrain from language that can be perceived as pathological, labeling, and judgmental.
• There is a strong focus on individual accountability, which parallels person-centered planning and individual choices. The participants participate in decision making and report that they feel listened to and respected, and that their opinion matters. All personnel, many of whom are themselves in addiction recovery, are committed to delivering services in an atmosphere characterized by a high level of regard for removing stigma and affording dignity and respect to the personnel. This philosophy and sentiment are found throughout the organization.
• One of greatest observed strengths is the energy and passion demonstrated by staff members at all levels, from frontline staff to administrative leaders. Across the organization, team members appear deeply committed to helping participants navigate addiction and recovery challenges with a genuine sense of care and dedication. It is evident that leadership is forward-thinking, and staff members are known for their enthusiasm in fostering positive change in the lives of participants.

• The positive attitude and work ethic of the staff members at all levels promote teamwork and successful service delivery practices. Staff members are recognized for their ongoing sensitivity for the individual preference of the participants. The staff members remarked that they feel supported by their supervisors and administrative personnel. Impressively vested in their work, they routinely draw on their creativity to ensure that participant needs are met within the organization or through external support services and resources.

• The participant expressed a high regard for the staff at Merit Resource Services, noting their patience, expertise, and genuine commitment to their successful recovery, which exceeded initial expectations.

• Merit Resource Services demonstrates a strong and ongoing commitment to serving individuals and communities who are disproportionately affected by healthcare disparities and systemic inequities. The organization intentionally focuses its efforts on populations that often face barriers to accessing quality care, ensuring that services are inclusive, culturally responsive, and equitable.

• By prioritizing outreach, education, and individualized support, Merit Resource Services actively works to reduce gaps in care and improve health outcomes for vulnerable and underserved participants. This dedication reflects the organization’s mission-driven approach to fostering access, empowerment, and long-term wellness within the communities it serves.