By Toni Knorr, Development Committee Volunteer

If you’re reading this blog, I’m pretty sure you are a supporter of Hammer. Maybe you see the work that Hammer does supporting individuals with developmental disabilities, first-hand. Perhaps caregivers at Hammer serve your loved one. Or maybe, like me, a friend introduced you to Hammer. You know the quality of Hammer’s work, and how they fulfill the mission of providing individuals the opportunity to experience life to its fullest.

Toni Knorr, Development Committee Volunteer

I serve on the Development Committee at Hammer. We meet quarterly to discuss fundraising strategies and review progress towards year-end goals. Since joining the committee, I’ve been impressed with the successful fundraising efforts, and the impact fundraised dollars have in the lives of individuals who call Hammer home. But, I’m just a community member volunteering my time, and I’m not digging deep into the processes around fundraising, and related policies to reinforce my desire to support their efforts.

Earlier this year, Chief Development Officer, Ellen Timmerman-Borer, and Executive Coordinator, Suzanne Wanous, began a long and lengthy review process by the Charities Review Council. The mission of the Charities Review Council is to build donor and nonprofit relationships for strong, vibrant and just communities.

I am thrilled to report that after careful review by outside experts, Hammer has been awarded the “Meets All Standards” seal of approval! This is a visual marker that demonstrates Hammer’s strength as a nonprofit. You will begin seeing this seal of approval on Hammer’s marketing materials and on the website, soon.

There is a total of 25 accountability standards that must be met in order to receive this “Meets All Standards” recognition, covering four critical areas: Public Disclosure, Governance, Financial Activity, and Fundraising. After review by the Council, it was determined that Hammer demonstrates responsibility, integrity and transparency to their constituents. Receiving this “Meets All Standards” designation is a demonstration to the public that Hammer is committed to accountable and ethical practices, and that it’s a trustworthy organization.

I am proud to support Hammer, and now the Charities Review Council award strengthens that decision. In my opinion, Hammer deserves an “Exceeds Standards” designation!