Johnny,
The NAA and IREM are both private trade groups--are you sure that your program would cover tuition for a private certification? IREM has an internal scholarship program. Fortunately, i was awarded a grant both times I applied. The scholarship won't pay for all the costs, however, you would be responsible for roughly a third. Anyways, the CAM requires a time consuming project at its conclusion. It might be difficult for you to be successful at it as you are unemployed because doing so requires "inside" Information (i.e. budget and expense info, financial reports, etc.). I am unaware of any scholarship or financial aid program for NAA's CAM. It's cost is probably comparable to IREM's ARM, and both can be completed online (except for the ARM certification exam, which is proctored).
Both have an experience and education requirement. Both have comprehensive final examinations. The CAM attempts to get applicants to apply what they have learned through its time and labor intensive final project, which some would argue its necessity after all the education and testing involved. After all, we already have the experience, right? In lieu of a final project, the ARM application process considers the applicants character and integrity requiring letters of reccomendation and a managerial "sign off" on experience and work functions. I am a bit more partial to the ARM because I have it, but I also feel its more practical--for me personally. Emily is right, though, the CAM and ARM are very similar and both are meant for the residential site manager. I can't wait to get a little more experience under my belt so I can get the coveted CPM. Like Emily said, it really is the gold standard.