National Standards for U.S. Community Foundations accreditation seal

The DeKalb County Community Foundation has received reaccreditation with National Standards for U.S. Community Foundations. This accreditation indicates that the Community Foundation meets the highest standards for philanthropic excellence.

“This is a significant accomplishment,” said Foundation Board President Christine Johnson. “When people trust the Community Foundation with their gifts and Fund creation, they do it knowing we have met rigorous standards for donor services, stewardship, grantmaking, community engagement, and administration.”

The process of earning National Standards accreditation is arduous. The program requires community foundations to document donor services, stewardship, grantmaking, community leadership, and administration policies. The program provides quality assurance to donors, as well as to their legal and financial advisors. Submitted documentation undergoes a panel review before receiving approval from the Community Foundations National Standards Board.

“This is critically important to our donors,” said Foundation Executive Director Dan Templin. “When donors make a gift or establish a Fund, they trust us to manage the investment wisely and honor their charitable wishes. National Standards ensure we have policies and practices in place that hold our work to a standard of excellence on behalf of our donors, grantees, and community. Community Foundations are the only foundation type in the country that have this set of Standards for accreditation.”

The DeKalb County Community Foundation works to connect people who care with causes that matter. Our mission is to enhance the quality of life in DeKalb County, IL. For questions on ways to partner with us for the betterment of DeKalb County, please contact Dan Templin at 815-748-5383 or dan@dekalbccf.org.