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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Nicole Stevens, 816.795.5307

Truman Heartland Community Foundation in Top Philanthropic Tier Nationally

Local Organization Meets Rigorous Standards for Quality and Accountability

HEARTLAND NEWS (November 30, 2011) – Truman Heartland Community Foundation recently received notification that it has met the nation’s highest philanthropic standards for operational quality, integrity and accountability. The notice comes from the Community Foundations National Standards Board, a national accreditation organization based in Arlington, Va.

“This is similar to the Good Housekeeping Seal for community foundations,” said Diane Miller, Manager, Community Foundations National Standards Board. “It says that Truman Heartland Community Foundation has demonstrated a commitment to operational quality, integrity and accountability.”

The National Standards for U.S. Community FoundationsÔ program requires community foundations to document their policies for donor services, investments, grantmaking and administration. With over 500 community foundations already confirmed in compliance nationwide, the program is designed to provide quality assurance to donors, as well as to their legal and financial advisors.

“This is critically important to our donors,” said Phil Hanson, Truman Heartland Community Foundation president. “When people make a charitable bequest, establish a fund or set up an annuity, they are putting their trust in us. They are counting on us to manage the investment wisely, honor their charitable wishes and, in some cases, provide lifetime income to a loved one. The National Standards confirmation says our house is in order.”

Truman Heartland Community Foundation offers a range of charitable funds, allowing donors to advance a cause such as education or the environment, support an individual organization, provide flexible support for community needs or recommend individual grants. In addition to affirming the organization’s philanthropic services, the confirmation validates Truman Heartland Community Foundation’s grantmaking practices for the nonprofit community.

“Some say it’s easier to create wealth than to give money away wisely,” said Jim Pryde, Truman Heartland Community Foundation Board Chairman. “There’s some truth in that. Grantmaking is a lot like investing… we need to assess risks, weigh potential gains, diversify assets, monitor performance and operate fairly. When you see the National Standards Seal, you can be assured that we’re committed to meeting the highest standards for grantmaking as well.”

The National Standards for U.S. Community Foundations program is the first of its kind for charitable foundations in the United States.

Truman Heartland Community Foundation is a public charity committed to “improving area communities by promoting private giving for the public good”. After 29 years of service, THCF continues to serve the region with assets surpassing $28 million and annual grants reaching $2.8 million last year. THCF provides a wide range of services to donors and grant seekers alike. For more information on charitable giving, visit us online at www.thcf.org or call the office at 816.836.8189.

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