Accountability Reviews: 79 new organizations enrolled in the Accountability Wizard review process in 2009. 117 nonprofits renewed their Accountability Wizard. By year-end 2009, 446 organizations have completed or are in the process of completing Accountability Wizard reviews. Nonprofit Services: With the participation of 400 individuals representing donors, institutional grantmakers, nonprofits and finance and governing experts, the Council updated the Accountability Standards used to review charities to reflect economic, regulatory and societal changes. The new Accountability Standards were tested extensively through focus groups and town hall forums to ensure that they represent reasonable expectations of a nonprofit. Charity reviews under the new standards began in April 2010. Provided tools and resources for organizations to meet and sustain accountability standards. Where standards were not fully met, technical assistance was provided to help organizations make structural, policy or procedural changes. Hosted record attendance of almost 300 sector leaders and donors at our Annual Forum featuring Phil Buchanan, Center for Effective Philanthropy president, who addressed the need for foundation and nonprofit leaders to increase their effectiveness and become more accountable Donor Services: Partnered with GiveMN to provide objective review reports of charities that have participated in our Accountability Wizard review process. Expanded interactions with key audiences - both nonprofit sector and donors - by social media outlets such as Facebook, Twitter and blog. Partnered with the St. Paul Pioneer Press in its annual Giving Guide special section distributed to 630,000 households offering resources and tips on smart charitable giving.

GROWTH: Project locally, regionally and nationally the Council’s distinctive voice for advancing the public’s trust in charities, by strengthening the impact of our programs: Nonprofits - Champion nonprofit accountability by identifying and defining sound practices and vigorously engaging the nonprofit sector in those practices. Donors- Stimulate charitable giving by motivating and educating donors to be smart givers. CULTURAL COMPETENCE: Transform the Council to a more culturally affirming, inclusive organization that will effectively serve donors and nonprofits of all cultures and communities. LEAD BY EXAMPLE: Earn public and nonprofit trust by modeling excellence in our recommended practices. FINANCIAL STRENGTH: Ensure the Council’s viability through thoughtful revenue growth and responsible fund development from diverse philanthropic and earned income sources.

All communities of donors, nonprofits, and grantmakers

Minnesota, North and South Dakota