ESLC applies for Standards of Excellence re-certification
Queenstown, Maryland – May 8, 2008 – Eastern Shore Land Conservancy (ESLC), a private, nonprofit land conservation organization dedicated to the preservation of farmland and habitat on the Eastern Shore is in the process of applying for the Maryland Association of Nonprofit Organizations’ (MANO) Standards for Excellence re-certification. ESLC was the first conservation or environmental organization in the country to be certified in this program, which began in 1998, and the first nonprofit on Delmarva.
Each award recipient is required to reapply at least every five years to maintain current certification and to verify that they are adhering to the guidelines of the program. ESLC originally received certification in 2000, recertification in 2003 and should receive notification of the award by November.
“This is a very important process to us as we continue to work toward maintaining the highest level of excellence as a nonprofit,” said Nina White, ESLC’s Director of Administration and coordinator for ESLC’s application. “I am looking forward to this process and am confident ESLC will receive re-certification.”
According to MANO, the Standards for Excellence program is designed to promote excellence and integrity in Maryland’s nonprofit organizations. In an effort to improve the work of nonprofits, the program provides an array of services to help organizations implement the standards. As part of the certification program, organizations submit to a voluntary, rigorous review of each part of their program’s operations.
“Striving for excellence in ethics and accountability is an essential building block toward the mission of protecting our Eastern Shore’s land and waters,” said Rob Etgen, ESLC’s Executive Director. “We commend the Maryland Association of Nonprofit Organizations for setting the gold standard on nonprofit excellence.”
The Standards of Excellence certification is based on 55 criteria, including values such as honesty, integrity, fairness, respect, trust, responsibility, and accountability. An organization’s programs, services, management, fundraising and financial practices are examined in depth before certification is awarded. For more information on MANO’s Standards for Excellence program please visit www.mdnonprofits.org.