Standards Accreditation and Recognition

“The Standards for Excellence process is the most enlightening experience. It’s invaluable information…[that] will keep your organization compliant and prepared. All organizations should go through this certification.”

-Mandy Arnold, President/CEO, Partners in Care

“The accreditation journey has truly changed our organization.”

-Chris Wilder, CEO, Valley Medical Center Foundation

“The Standards remind us to focus on the big picture; our mission, policies and procedures, board functioning, and business practices.”

-Ellen Franks, Director of Quality Assurance, The Arc of Montgomery County

“The accreditation process is rigorous and promotes thoughtful discussion and evaluation of our governance and operating practices.”

-Donald Rowe, Executive Director, The Arc of Carroll County

The Standards for Excellence program offers three levels of recognition and accreditation to nonprofits that can demonstrate adherence to the Standards for Excellence code. Participating in the Standards for Excellence program is a way to strengthen your organization and set it apart as one that goes above and beyond minimum legal requirements. Organizations that undergo this process experience a dramatic transformation in their management, governance, and operations.

An independent study that measured the impact of achieving Standards for Excellence accreditation showed that accredited organizations raise more money and invest more in their missions than similar, but unaccredited, organizations.

ACCREDITATION IN ACTION

THE DELAPLAINE ARTS CENTER

Accredited since 2003
“The Standards have informed and guided how we operate. They provide a framework to ensure that we never lose sight of why and for whom we exist.” -Catherine Moreland, CEO

THE CENTER FOR PUBLIC JUSTICE

Accredited since 2013
“The seal declares that we are…a well-managed nonprofit organization. It definitely made us stronger in every area.” – Director of Development Jennifer K. Pelton, CFRE

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