COA Accreditation Volunteer Spotlight: Milton Fonseca

Through COA Accreditation, a service of Social Current, we seek to empower organizations to implement best practice standards to improve service delivery and achieve better outcomes for individuals and communities. COA Accreditation provides a framework to help organizations manage resources, incorporate best practices, and strive for continuous improvement.

We believe there is rich expertise in our field, so we ground the COA Accreditation process in our human and social services community. Our volunteer peer reviewers conduct our site visits and finalize accreditation decisions.

We are proud to spotlight the latest Volunteer of the Quarter: Milton Fonseca.

About Milton Fonseca

Milton Fonseca’s family emigrated from Cuba and settled in South Florida in 1991. Raised by a hardworking single mother, he learned the values of perseverance, integrity, and dedication to service. His professional journey began in 2004 when he joined the Advocate Program Inc. (AP) as a front desk clerk in the DUI Department. AP is a multifaceted organization serving the South Florida tri-county area of Miami-Dade, Broward, and Monroe Counties, and as of 2024, has expanded its services to Volusia County in Northeast Florida.

Throughout his tenure at AP, Fonseca has advanced within the organization from a program specialist to a program manager, and in 2018, assuming the role of director of performance and quality improvement. In 2024, he was appointed director of operations for Volusia County. His educational journey has been equally fulfilling—he earned his associate’s in business administration from Miami-Dade College in the summer of 2023 and completed a bachelor’s in leadership and innovation with a concentration in human resources in December 2024. He is also actively affiliated with Mothers Against Drunk Driving and the Florida Association of Community Corrections, both of which align with his commitment to public safety and rehabilitation efforts.

Fonseca was first introduced to COA Accreditation in 2015 when AP made the significant decision to pursue accreditation, reinforcing its dedication to quality service and continuous improvement. In 2019, he became the organization’s primary point of contact for reaccreditation cycles, leading successful reaccreditation efforts in 2019 and 2023. This experience has deepened his appreciation for COA Accreditation as a means of ensuring the highest standards in service delivery and organizational excellence.

Q&A

What three traits define you?

The three traits that define me are perseverance, resilience, and empathy. Throughout my professional journey and personal growth, I have had the privilege of working alongside passionate individuals dedicated to making a meaningful impact in the communities they serve. I firmly believe that success is built on a foundation of hard work, determination, and an unwavering commitment to progress, even in the face of adversity.

Resilience has allowed me to navigate challenges with strength and adaptability, turning obstacles into opportunities for growth. However, true leadership and service require empathy. Understanding and valuing the experiences of others fosters meaningful connections, ethical decision-making, and a genuine commitment to improving lives.

What are your strongest beliefs about the value of COA Accreditation?

I firmly believe that COA Accreditation is a powerful testament to an organization’s commitment to excellence. It signifies that an organization has met the highest standards of service, ensuring that every aspect of its operations–from service delivery to internal processes–aligns with best practices and industry benchmarks.

COA Accreditation is more than just a credential; it represents ongoing dedication to quality, accountability, and continuous improvement. It strengthens an organization’s ability to fulfill its mission, enhances service outcomes, and builds trust among clients, stakeholders, and the community. It is a symbol of integrity and a reflection of an unwavering pursuit of excellence in everything an organization does.

What advice would you give someone interested in being a COA Accreditation volunteer?

Go for it! Becoming a COA Accreditation volunteer is an incredibly rewarding experience that will challenge you, help you grow, and shape your professional development in ways you never imagined. As a COA Accreditation Peer Reviewer, you’ll gain invaluable insight into best practices across the nation, learning from diverse organizations that are making a real difference in their communities. Not only will you bring back knowledge and fresh perspectives to your own organization, but you will also contribute to strengthening the field as a whole.

Along the way, you’ll meet dedicated professionals who share your passion for service—and maybe even a celebrity or two! During one site visit, I had the unexpected honor of meeting Academy-Award-winning actress Jamie Lee Curtis—but I digress. More importantly, serving as a Peer Reviewer has been one of the greatest joys of my career. I look forward to continuing this journey for many years as a Lead Peer Reviewer and being part of Social Current’s mission to promote excellence in human and social services through COA Accreditation.

What excites, surprises, and/or challenges you the most about the work you do as a COA Accreditation volunteer?

When I began my journey as a COA Accreditation Peer Reviewer, I was eager to witness the incredible work being done by organizations across the country, hoping to bring back valuable insights and best practices to enhance my own organization. What I didn’t expect was the profound impact that my fellow Peer Reviewers —particularly the seasoned Lead Reviewers—would have on me, both professionally and personally.

I have been truly inspired by individuals who have dedicated years, and in some cases, decades, to this work. Their unwavering commitment, professionalism, and passion for service excellence have shaped my own approach as a Peer Reviewer and Lead. I have had the privilege of learning from some of the best, including Helene Cohen, the great Stan Capela, Kathy Cook, Ray Barber, and Jerry Moran. Their mentorship and leadership have not only refined my skills but have deepened my appreciation for the power of COA Accreditation in strengthening organizations and, ultimately, the communities we serve.

What led you to become a COA Accreditation volunteer?

Being deeply involved in my organization’s initial accreditation process and leading subsequent reaccreditation cycles sparked my passion for the COA accreditation process. I was eager to gain a broader perspective—one that allowed me to step into the role of a peer reviewer and witness firsthand how other organizations across the nation operate and serve their communities.

What truly drew me to become a COA Accreditation peer reviewer was the opportunity to witness the incredible work being done by organizations committed to excellence and positive change. Engaging with diverse organizations, learning from their best practices, and contributing to their journey toward continuous improvement is a privilege I do not take for granted. It is both inspiring and rewarding to be part of a process that upholds the highest standards of service and strengthens the collective impact we strive to make in the lives of those we serve.

Learn more about how to become a peer review volunteer and apply online.