Reviewers
National Standards for U.S. Community Foundations reviewers have years of experience in community foundation leadership, and are passionate about National Standards and philanthropic excellence. Each reviewer signs a confidentiality agreement and is trained to determine a foundation’s compliance by conducting consistent and fair evaluations of the application
National Standards for U.S. Community Foundations® accreditation is a commitment to transparency, excellence, stewardship, and leadership. Since 2000, more than 500 community foundations have been accredited and are proudly displaying the seal that denotes their achievement. This achievement would not have been possible without the dedicated professionals who perform the vital role of peer reviewer. Successful peer reviewers are passionate about National Standards and philanthropic excellence.
To be considered for a peer reviewer position in the accreditation process, please follow the application process outlined below.
Please submit the following documents:
- Completed application form
- Résumé
- Personal statement describing your qualifications and reasons for wanting to become a National Standards reviewer
- Letter of Reference (optional)
National Standards reviewers are required to:
- Understand the 26 National Standards for U.S. Community Foundations®
- Complete an initial review of submissions at the CFNSB offices in Arlington, Va., and reviews of supplemental materials remotely
- Be responsive and willing to work with CFNSB staff to facilitate the supplemental review process in a timely manner
- Provide written questions and comments for community foundations in language that is respectful, clear, and concise
- Follow CFNSB confidentiality and conflict of interest policies
- Fulfill their duties successfully in order to receive a stipend of $100 for reaccreditation submissions and $150 for initial submissions
Additional Requirements to become a National Standards Reviewer:
- Commit to attending a National Standards Training in Arlington, VA
- Commit to reviewing at least five submissions
In reviewing applicants, the following factors will be considered:
- Depth and range of experience at a community foundation. Preferred candidates will have expertise in at least one of the functional areas of a community foundation (for example, governance, financial management, communications, programs/grantmaking, resource development, or donor services). Candidates with senior leadership experience and experience working with/on a community foundation’s board of directors will be given preference.
- Experience working on a National Standards submission. Candidates who demonstrate an understanding of the accreditation requirements and submission process will be given preference.
- Knowledge of the community foundation field. Candidates should demonstrate their commitment and ability to keep abreast of developments and trends across the community foundation field. Experience working at or with community foundations of different asset sizes, staff resources, organizational service areas (urban, rural, or suburban) is preferred.
- Diversity. The CFNSB seeks diversity in its many forms, encompassing but not limited to ethnicity, race, gender, sexual orientation and identification, age, economic circumstance, disability, geography, and philosophy.
- Dedication. Candidates must be dedicated to the values of the National Standards for U.S. Community Foundation® and the integrity of the accreditation process. They should have demonstrated dedication and aptitude for continued professional growth and learning. They should strive to serve the community foundation field and represent the CFNSB with professionalism, dedication, and expertise.