The Dayton Foundation has been notified that it is among the first nonprofits in Ohio to earn the Ohio Association of Nonprofit Organizations (OANO) Standards for Excellence certification for its rigorous adherence to accountability and ethical business practices. The Foundation is one of two community foundations in Ohio that are among the eight nonprofits who to date have been certified as meeting OANO's 56 standards.

The certification process included an anonymous peer review process to confirm adherence to a comprehensive code of conduct that promotes accountability through self-regulation. The lengthy review focused on the Foundation's operations, governance, human resources, financial management and fundraising practices.

According to Jennifer Campbell, executive director of OANO, "It takes great dedication to undergo the certification process. We are proud to have The Dayton Foundation in the group of Standards of Excellence certified organizations. The Foundation's hard work demonstrates a firm commitment to the highest standards in ethics and accountability."

OANO is a statewide membership association of nearly 700 organizations that provides leadership, education and advocacy to enhance the ability of Ohio's nonprofit organizations to serve their communities.