CVA Information

The "Certified in Volunteer Administration" (CVA) credential is offered for practitioners in volunteer resources management. Originally developed by the international Association for Volunteer Administration, the program is now sponsored by the Council for Certification in Volunteer Administration (CCVA).

Unlike many "certificate" or certification programs being offered by colleges and universities, this professional credentialing program is performance-based. It is not intended to teach individuals how to manage volunteers effectively. Rather, it is designed to measure an individual's "knowledge-in-use"--the application of knowledge and skills by those with real-life experience in this role. This includes the assessment of a candidate's ability to structure tasks, produce ideas, and solve problems. 

Core Competencies

Individuals pursuing the CVA credential are expected to demonstrate successfully their knowledge and ability to apply skills required for competent volunteer management, based on their actual performance in the role. Five core competencies have been identified:

• Ethics

• Organizational Management

• Human Resource Management

• Accountability

• Leadership and Advocacy

The Credentialing Process

A two-part measurement methodology has been designed to demonstrate a candidate's knowledge and application of the core competencies.  This is a self-study process, requiring no travel or special classes.

• Part I, Portfolio, includes a 100-250 word philosophy statement, 100-250 word ethics case study, and a 1,500-1,750 word management narrative.

• Part II, the Multiple Choice Examination, is an 80 question, two-hour proctored exam, offered once a year on the 4th Wednesday in May.

Eligibility

Individuals wishing to become credentialed must meet these requirements in order to register as a candidate:

• Minimum of the equivalent of three years of full-time experience related to volunteer resources management. This experience can be a combination of several part-time positions, and can include both salaried and non-salaried roles.

• Minimum of 30 percent of current position related to volunteer resources management.

• Two letters of professional recommendation from supervisors or colleagues, verifying the candidate's activity in the field and his/her appropriateness as a candidate for this credential.

Registration

Registration for the 2012 cycle is open from October 1, 2011 until March 1, 2012.

This information is from the Council for Certification in Volunteer Administration Website. To read more about the CVA credentialing process, visit their website at: http://www.cvacert.org.