Danielle V. Minson — Raising the Bar
Jewish Federation Earns 4-Star Rating from Charity Navigator
The Jewish Federation of Cincinnati’s strong financial health and commitment to accountability and transparency have earned it a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator, America’s largest independent charity evaluator.
“The Jewish Federation of Cincinnati’s exceptional 4-star rating sets it apart from its peers and demonstrates its trustworthiness to the public,” according to Michael Thatcher, President & CEO of Charity Navigator. “Only a quarter of charities rated by Charity Navigator receive the distinction of our 4-star rating. This adds the Federation to a preeminent group of charities working to overcome our world’s most pressing challenges. Based on its 4-star rating, people can trust that their donations are going to a financially responsible and ethical charity when they decide to support the Jewish Federation.”
Since 2002, using objective analysis, Charity Navigator has awarded only the most fiscally responsible organizations a 4-star rating. In 2011, Charity Navigator added 17 metrics, focused on governance and ethical practices as well as measures of openness, to its ratings methodology. These Accountability & Transparency metrics, which account for 50 percent of a charity’s overall rating, reveal which charities operate in accordance with industry best practices and whether they are open with their donors and stakeholders. In 2016, Charity Navigator upgraded its methodology again, further substantiating the financial health of its 4-star charities.
“It’s important to our stakeholders that we use our financial resources wisely to accomplish our mission—to build a vibrant Jewish community by guiding strategic, holistic community priorities, creating capacity for our partner agencies and congregations, and mobilizing in times of need,” said Federation CEO Shep Englander. “Our 4-star Charity Navigator rating demonstrates to our supporters our good governance and financial accountability.”
“During this time, when our community’s needs are increasing because of the coronavirus, and we are asking those who are able to help fill that need, it is more important than ever to demonstrate our transparency and accountability, giving our donors great confidence that when they give to the Federation, their gift truly makes a difference,” said Danielle V. Minson, Chief Development Officer and Managing Director.
Charity Navigator ratings are based on two primary factors: financial health as well as transparency and accountability. Achieving a four-star rating in financial health includes meeting or exceeding benchmarks for program, administrative, and fundraising expenses. Transparency and accountability standards include an independent board of directors who are not compensated, audited financial statements, IRS Form 990 available, and a records retention policy in place.
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