Submitted by the Humane Society for Southwest Washington
The Humane Society for Southwest Washington (HSSW) joins the top 11 percent of nonprofits nationwide in volunteer management and organizational performance with its new certification as a Service Enterprise organization. Awarded though Points of Light – the world’s largest organization dedicated to volunteer service – HSSW’s distinction as a Service Enterprise positions it to better engage volunteers, increase program operations and programmatic impact.
“We’re so pleased to have earned this outstanding accomplishment,” says Stacey Graham, President of HSSW. “It shows that we’re demonstrating our capability and management expertise to strategically leverage our volunteers, improve animals’ lives and strengthen our community.”
Best Friends Animal Society worked directly with Points of Light and selected 10 shelters to coach and mentor through the process. Their goal was to provide leadership for animal welfare organizations which ultimately would provide the best care possible for animals in shelters. “With this certification, the Humane Society for Southwest Washington joins a prestigious group of nonprofits committed to effectively delivering on their missions by strategically engaging volunteer time and talent. They are truly at the forefront of revolutionizing volunteer engagement in animal welfare,” says Kimberly Elman, Manager, National Outreach Volunteer Programs, Best Friends Animal Society®.
In order to receive its certification, HSSW completed a detailed two-year assessment, training, individualized coaching, and an extensive internal planning and change process.
“The process gave us new insights into our volunteer management best practices and how to make the most of our treasured volunteers and their time and diverse talents,” says Graham. “This will help us have greater positive impacts as we carry out our mission.”
Research by the TCC Group shows that Service Enterprise-certified organizations outperform peer nonprofits on all aspects of organizational effectiveness, and are significantly more adaptable, sustainable and scalable. For every $1 invested in effective volunteer engagement, organizations can expect $3 to $6 in return through more powerful program delivery.
HSSW’s Service Enterprise certification will last through October 2022.
Featured photo credit: Waz-Mix Pix
