Saginaw Community Foundation meets national accountability standards

Saginaw Community Foundation is accredited with National Standards for U.S. Community Foundations® — the highest standards for philanthropic excellence.

We work to support the causes our community cares about. National Standards says that we meet the most rigorous standards in philanthropy and is a promise to our community that we’ll continue to do this good work together, right here in Saginaw County.

National Standards is not mandatory. We chose to go above and beyond by affirming our commitment to excellence and accountability. Our accreditation provides assurance that we have sound policies and practices in place. In short, it means we meet the highest standards for local giving.

To receive accreditation with National Standards, Saginaw Community Foundation submitted our policies and procedures to a rigorous review of 41 National Standards in six key areas of community foundation operations, including donor services, investment management, grantmaking and administration.

Learn more about the National Standards for U.S. Community Foundations® program, established in 2000 in cooperation with the Council on Foundations.

What do National Standards Accomplish?

Charitable contributions made to support and strengthen communities are limited and precious. The National Standards seal indicates that these accredited institutions will serve as responsible stewards of these contributions as dedicated community partners and leaders.

To receive and maintain accreditation status, community foundations must meet and remain compliant with comprehensive standards around the following key areas of excellence:

Structure and Governance

Reflects the independence and integrity of the organization’s board and staff in managing the foundation’s operations and assets.

Resource Development

Ensures that the organization receives a revenue stream that represents the diversity of citizen support.

Accountability

Assures that the organization complies with accountable financial record keeping and reporting disciplines, and prudent investment practices.

Grantmaking

Determines that the organization responds to community needs, and uses funds only for qualified charitable purposes.

Community Engagement

Assures that the organization demonstrates leadership and outreach to the community.

Source: The Community Foundations National Standards Board