We are very excited to announce that we have completed the National Standards accreditation program and we are officially accredited. What does this mean? The National Standards for U.S. Community Foundations accreditation program represents a community foundation’s commitment to go above and beyond federal and state law requirements to demonstrate accountability and excellence to communities, policymakers, and the public.
In May of 2016, Whitefish Community Foundation completed an audit and started the accreditation process with the Council on Foundations. This process involved submitting all of our fund agreements, policies, Bylaws, and program information to the Council for review by the National Standards legal committee. After a yearlong process, we have officially received accreditation.
Accreditation represents excellence in community philanthropy. National Standards are used by community foundations of all sizes, scopes, and areas of focus throughout the United States. They provide vital guidance on how community foundations should operate, distribute funds, and determine impact on the communities they serve. Community foundations face regulation at the state and federal level. The National Standards for U.S. Community Foundations accreditation program provides an additional layer of rigorous, sector-driven and enforced accountability. Created over a decade ago, the National Standards seal demonstrates commitment to operational excellence, and represents real results for communities everywhere.
What does accreditation say about the Whitefish Community Foundation?
We are accountable- The IRS tax code is long and complicated. National Standards accreditation shows that a community foundation not only exceeds federal requirements, but uses best practices for record keeping, reporting, and making prudent investments
We are responsive- An accredited community foundation is nimble and creative in responding to community needs, and only uses funds for qualified charitable purposes.
We have integrity- Accreditation demonstrates a community foundation manages its operations and assets independent from third-party influence.
We are equitable- Community foundations that achieve National Standards accreditation have proven their resources represent the diversity of citizen support.
We are engaged- National Standards accreditation emphasizes the connectedness, commitment, and leadership of a community foundation to those it works with and supports.