First Nations Development Institute (First Nations) has been awarded Charity Navigator’s coveted four-star rating for a third year in a row, in recognition of First Nations’ sound fiscal management and commitment to accountability and transparency.
In a July 1, 2014, letter to First Nations, Charity Navigator President & CEO Ken Berger noted: “Only 12% of the charities we rate have received at least three consecutive 4-star evaluations, indicating that First Nations Development Institute outperforms most other charities in America. This ‘exceptional’ designation from Charity Navigator differentiates First Nations Development Institute from its peers and demonstrates to the public it is worthy of their trust.”
“Receiving four out of a possible four stars indicates that your organization adheres to good governance and other best practices that minimize the chance of unethical activities and consistently executes its mission in a fiscally responsible way,” Berger further indicated.
“We are honored to receive this top rating again this year, especially since so few nonprofit organizations achieve it over three consecutive years,” said Michael E. Roberts, First Nations president. “We believe it reflects our dedicated accountability to all of our constituencies – our generous donors and the Native American communities that we serve – and it demonstrates our commitment to pursuing our important work in a clear, honest and fiscally responsible manner, using good stewardship of charitable contributions while maintaining the public trust.”
I receive solicitations from 6 or 7 Native American groups. Is this a way of getting these requests under one grouping?
Hi Regina! To answer your question, no, this is not a way of getting combined solicitations. Each Native American nonprofit or charity does its own fundraising and there is not a coordinated central “clearing house” that we’re aware of. There is the Native Ways Federation, of which several American Indian groups are members, but that federation usually concentrates on workplace giving where people give donations through their paychecks at work. Hope this helps. Thanks!