ADRIAN, Mich., July 10, 2025
After a thorough review process, the Lenawee Community Foundation (LCF) has been recertified by the Council on Foundations, meeting the National Standards for U.S. Community Foundations.
This prestigious accreditation acknowledges the highest philanthropic standards for operational quality, donor services, integrity, and accountability. It distinguishes accredited community foundations as leaders in the field, setting them apart from other philanthropic organizations.
The Council on Foundations is a national nonprofit association representing grant-making entities, including corporate, private, and community foundations. The Community Foundations National Standards accreditation ensures that community foundations adhere to legal, ethical, and effective operational practices. It highlights transparency, financial responsibility, and community engagement while increasing the foundation’s capacity to fulfill its mission. This accreditation demonstrates that the Lenawee Community Foundation operates with the highest standards of accountability and responsiveness, and continues to be a trusted resource for community philanthropy.
“Adopting and maintaining the National Standards reflects our ongoing commitment to the trust placed in us by our donors and the community,” said David Hickman, Chair of the Board of the Lenawee Community Foundation. “Our Board of Directors has always been dedicated to serving with integrity and competence, and this recertification underscores that commitment.”
The Lenawee Community Foundation serves as the region’s premier resource for charitable giving, empowering donors to support causes that matter most to them. With a mission grounded in creating lasting impact, LCF believes that generosity not only transforms individuals but strengthens the community, promoting health, happiness, and hope for all — now and forever.
The National Standards, developed as both an internal blueprint and an external set of performance benchmarks, encompass six key areas of community foundation operations:
- Mission, Structure and Governance: Defining board responsibilities, fiduciary accountability, community representation, and organizational independence.
- Resource Development: Ensuring responsible fund administration, donor disclosures, and long-term resource growth for community needs.
- Stewardship and Accountability: Ensuring prudent fund management, transparent record-keeping, and public availability of financial information.
- Grant-making and Community Leadership: Promoting open grant-making processes, responsiveness to community needs, and honoring donor intent.
- Donor Relations: Ensuring that donors are informed, acknowledged, and involved in the community’s philanthropic efforts.
- Communications: Committing to transparency and frequent communication about foundation activities and finances.
The Lenawee Community Foundation is committed to providing personalized service to individuals, businesses, organizations, and communities, helping them achieve their charitable goals. With a deep understanding of local needs and opportunities, LCF offers unique giving solutions and is a trusted leader in community building—now and for generations to come.
For more information about the Lenawee Community Foundation or fulfilling your charitable wishes, contact the Lenawee Community Foundation at 517.263.4696 or forlenawee@lenaweecf.com.
About Lenawee Community Foundation:
The Lenawee Community Foundation is a charitable organization created by and for the community. By collecting donations and investing them for lasting impact, the Foundation funds grants, scholarships, and local initiatives to address community needs, support nonprofits, and enhance the wellbeing of Lenawee County. More than just an organization, the Lenawee Community Foundation is an opportunity for individuals, families, and businesses to leverage the power of collective giving to make sure their community stays strong and supported for years to come.
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For more information, please contact: Kirsten Stiver, (517) 263-4696, kirsten@lenaweecf.com.
