While we look ahead to the release of the updates to the Standards for Excellence program in the coming weeks, it is also important to pause to reflect on topics in the Standards that that have stood the test of time over the long term. One of the important areas included in the Standards for Excellence since the program’s launch in 1998 has been the conflict of interest benchmarks. The Standards for Excellence: An Ethics and Accountability Code for the Nonprofit Sector encourages nonprofits to[…]

With the start of the new year, we can always look forward to the promise of new beginnings. The fresh blanket of snow covering our communities here in Maryland is a great symbol of hope for the new year.While the big news at my home has been the excitement that two snow days brings to school-aged kids, we at the Standards for Excellence Institute are also super excited to be sharing news about updates to our Standards for Excellence code and resources.In the coming weeks and throughout 2025,[…]

The Standards for Excellence Institute would like to congratulate The Arc Central Chesapeake Region for renewing their accreditation under the Standards for Excellence: An Ethics and Accountability Code for the Nonprofit Sector. Being accredited by the Standards for Excellence Institute demonstrates that the nonprofit has met the rigorous requirements that are included in the standards. Being an accredited nonprofit sets the organization apart as a top performer in the nonprofit field and lets[…]

For Immediate Release Contact: Amy Coates Madsen Director, Standards for Excellence Institute® acmadsen@standardsforexcellence.org 443-438-2314   Introducing: Standards for Excellence Institute® Licensed Consultant Class of November 2024 Baltimore, MD – December 11, 2024 – The Standards for Excellence Institute, an initiative dedicated to promoting the highest standards of nonprofit ethics and accountability, announces its 2024 Class of Licensed Consultants. Thirty highly experienced nonprofit[…]

The Standards for Excellence Institute congratulates the Joshua M. Freeman Foundation for renewing their accreditation under the Standards for Excellence: An Ethics and Accountability Code for the Nonprofit Sector. Being accredited by the Standards for Excellence Institute demonstrates that the nonprofit has met the rigorous requirements that are included in the standards. Being an accredited nonprofit sets the organization apart as a top performer in the nonprofit field and lets all its[…]

The Standards for Excellence Institute would like to congratulate North American Land Trust (NALT) for earning their accreditation under the Standards for Excellence: An Ethics and Accountability Code for the Nonprofit Sector. Being accredited by the Standards for Excellence Institute’s partner, Pennsylvania Association of Nonprofit Organizations (PANO), demonstrates that the nonprofit has met the rigorous requirements that are included in the standards. Being an accredited nonprofit sets the[…]

The Standards for Excellence Institute would like to congratulate Touch Stones Financial Wellness Services for earning the Standards basics recognition under the Standards for Excellence: An Ethics and Accountability Code for the Nonprofit Sector. To earn the Standards basics recognition, Touch Stones Financial Wellness Services went through an application process, which included a review by Standards of Excellence Institute staff to verify that Touch Stones Financial Wellness Services has[…]

The Standards for Excellence Institute would like to congratulate HOPE For All for earning the Standards basics recognition under the Standards for Excellence: An Ethics and Accountability Code for the Nonprofit Sector. To earn the Standards basics recognition, HOPE For All went through an application process, which included a review by Standards of Excellence Institute staff to verify that HOPE For All has strong policies in place for good governance and legal compliance, and a well-defined[…]

If you are like me, you probably have resolutions and goals for 2024. One of my resolutions is to intentionally take the time to fix bothersome things rather than just being annoyed by them over and over again. You probably also have items on your list that need attention. I discovered a type of glue that seems to fix everything; I used it several times in the last week to fix broken boot heels and watch bands. I am a bit nervous, however, and wonder if my glue repairs, however strong, may[…]

Engaging the Board as a Catalyst for Change by Debra Thompson and Jacqui Catrabone, Strategy Solutions, Inc. As an Executive Director (ED), or CEO, of a nonprofit organization you undoubtedly have a lot on your plate. That’s why it’s important that your board of directors align with and help advance the agency’s strategic plan. But how can you effectively engage the board to be a catalyst for real change? The Standards for Excellence:® An Ethics and Accountability Code for the Nonprofit Sector[…]