For Employers
Become a Certified Partner
Five steps. As little as 2.5 hours of training. A workplace that truly supports the caregivers on your team, and a 12-month certification to show for it. Here is exactly how it works.
Get Started: Register Your Organization1 in 5
Employees is a Caregiver
2.5 hrs
Total Training Time
$0
Cost to Participate
12 mo
Certification Term
The Path
Five Steps to Certification
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Apply to Become a Partner
Submit a short application with your organization details. Once approved, your organization receives access to a personalized dashboard with a progress tracker.
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Complete Required Training
Your team completes the online training modules through the portal, led by RAFT Dementia Support Program experts. Progress is tracked automatically, watch on your schedule, no live attendance required.
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Designate a Workplace Champion
Once training is complete, name your Workplace Champion, the go-to contact for employees seeking dementia caregiving resources and support.
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Complete a Workplace Workshop
Schedule a live workshop with the Alliance, on-site, virtual, or as a group session, to put the training into practice across your organization.
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Certified Partner
Once the Alliance confirms every step, your organization is certified for 12 months, with a certificate, badge, and listing on the NVDSA Alliance directory.
The Business Case
Why This Matters for Your Organization
- 1 in 5 employees in your workforce is currently caring for someone with dementia or another cognitive condition.
- 65% of caregivers report that caregiving responsibilities have negatively impacted their work performance.
- $33B+ is lost annually in U.S. productivity due to employees managing caregiving responsibilities without workplace support.
What Certified Partners Gain
- Reduced absenteeism and presenteeism among caregiver employees
- Improved employee retention and loyalty
- Stronger employer brand and community reputation
- Official digital certificate and Certified Partner badge
- Listing on the NVDSA Alliance partner directory
- Social media and annual recognition from the Alliance
- Ongoing access to updated resources and the peer network
Certified Partners are recognized in our public partner directory.
Register Your OrganizationCommon Questions
Is there a cost to participate?
No. The program is completely free for employers, made possible through a grant from the Potomac Health Foundation.
What does certification require?
Four steps: apply and be approved, complete the required online training, designate a Workplace Champion, and complete a live workshop with the Alliance. Once the Alliance confirms every step, your organization is certified for 12 months.
How many people from our organization need to complete the training?
We recommend at least your HR manager and one senior leader complete the required modules. Additional staff are welcome and encouraged.
Do we have to complete all modules at once?
No. Modules are available on-demand through the portal, and progress is tracked automatically. You can complete them at your own pace over days or weeks.
What is the Certified Partner designation?
It is an official recognition issued by My Natural Me / NVDSA that your organization has completed the training, designated a workplace champion, and completed a workshop. It includes a certificate and digital badge, and is renewed annually.
What geographic area does this program serve?
This program is designed for employers in Prince William County and Northern Virginia. Participants outside this area are welcome, but the program is specifically funded to serve this region.
Ready to Become a Certified Partner?
Registration is free. Training takes as little as 2.5 hours. The impact lasts far longer.