CF National Standards

New Canaan Community Foundation Meets Rigorous Standards for Quality and Accountability

In 2006, The New Canaan Community Foundation received notification that it met the nation's highest philanthropic standards for operational quality, integrity and accountability. The recognition came from the National Council on Foundations, a national professional association based in Washington, D.C. The Council, together with leaders in the community foundation field, created National Standards to assist community foundations in establishing legal, ethical and effective operating practices and provide a tangible set of bench marks for external assessment of performance.

"This accomplishment is similar to the Good Housekeeping Seal for community foundations," said Tom Turrentine, former NCCF Board President in 2006. "It says that our Community Foundation has demonstrated a commitment to operational quality, integrity and accountability."

The National Standards for U.S. Community Foundations Program requires community foundations to document their policies for donor services, investments, grantmaking and administration. The program is designed to provide quality assurance to donors, as well as to their legal and financial advisors.

Cynthia Gorey, Executive Director of the Foundation said, "We are thrilled to have passed this rigorous evaluation of our policies and practices by expert, national reviewers. The 38 National Standards include six key areas of community foundation operations: mission, structure and governance; resource development; stewardship and accountability; grantmaking and community leadership; donor relations; and communications."

"This validation is critically important to our donors," said Tom Turrentine. "When people make a charitable bequest or establish a fund at the New Canaan Community Foundation, they are putting their trust in us. They are counting on the Foundation to manage the investment wisely and to honor their charitable wishes. The National Standards confirmation says our house is in order. Meeting these National Standards demonstrates our commitment to excellence, accountability and superior service to our donors, grantees, and community."

The National Standards for U.S. Community Foundations program is the first of its kind for charitable foundations in the United States.