Our introduction of the Accountability Wizard in December 2005 ushered in a new era of demonstrable accountability for nonprofits, opening up our charity review process to all nonprofits operating in Minnesota. The Wizard is an online self-assessment tool that measures an organization’s performance in four critical areas: Public Disclosure, Governance, Financial Activity and Fundraising. Organizations voluntarily participate in public reviews conducted by the Wizard to help the public determine the trustworthiness of the organization.

Similarly, our Smart Givers Network Web site makes nonprofit information easily accessible to donors supporting those organizations. Through the timesaving benefits of technology, the Wizard allows us to shift our emphasis from strictly judge to educator and helper—the more nonprofits meeting Accountability Standards—the more good choices there are for donors.

2006 was indeed a successful year, with almost 300 nonprofits completing the Accountability Wizard or in process. We thank the many funders who helped make the ambitious product development possible, the many nonprofit leaders who recognized the importance of using this new service to demonstrate accountability and transparency, and the many donors who have used this information to make informed giving decisions.

We also want to thank and recognize 2005 and 2006 Board Chair Julia Classen for her exemplary leadership during these significant changes. The Council benefited greatly from both her far-sighted vision and her practical knowledge of the nonprofit sector. We are also very grateful for the support of participating nonprofits that whole-heartedly embraced the Accountability Wizard, the generosity of our donors, the tireless efforts of our volunteers and the dedication of staff and members of the Council’s board.

In 2007, we’ll be actively telling our story—communicating our new services to both donors and nonprofits. And we’ll be updating our strategic plan to make sure the Council remains relevant in its ability to provide critically important information to donors and nonprofits for many years to come.

Our vision is simple...that Minnesota is full of nonprofits demonstrating adherence to widely accepted Accountability Standards, resulting in strengthened public trust. In particular, it is our vision that it becomes common practice for Minnesota nonprofit organizations to complete the Accountability Wizard, and that it is the common expectation of donors that they do so. You can help us by spreading the word to nonprofits and donors alike. Here's to a year of unparalleled accountability and trust.

Rich Cowles, Executive Director                                   James V. Toscano, Board Chair