Background:
In 1995, with the assistance of several universities from across the country, the Florida
Association of Nonprofit Organizations (FANO) became the first state association of nonprofits to
develop certificate in nonprofit management program. The Certificate was FANO’s effort to
establish a set of management practices to build the accountability and the excellence in the
Nonprofit Sector in Florida. Other states have not reached this level of training however they
have established the underpinnings of such a program. The original model is from Minnesota and
it includes standards for strong public accountability. (Other models based on the Minnesota
model are: Michigan, South Carolina)
About Principals and Practices:
The Principles and Practices for Nonprofit Excellence are based on the fundamental values of
quality, responsibility and accountability and includes ten characteristic accountability principles
that distinguish the nonprofit sector from government and the business sector. It also includes
133 management practices, specific guidelines for individual organizations to evaluate and
improve their operations, governance, human resources, advocacy, financial management and
fundraising. When compared to our certificate in nonprofit management it is very similar.
FANO to adopt a similar Principals and Practices:
By discussing and adopting a Principals and Practices Policy FANO would: 1) Help to provide
individual organizations striving for excellence with a tool for strategic planning and operational
evaluation relative to the rest of the nonprofit sector; 2)Help support the growth and
quality of the sector; and 3) Help to increase public understanding of the role and
contributions of the nonprofit sector. In general, The Principles and Practices for
Nonprofit Excellence would be designed to support the effective functioning of our sector by
recommending specific best practices.
The Process:
After FANO board approval the Principles and Practices for Nonprofit Excellence appoint a
committee representing the diversity of the nonprofit sector, with extensive input gathered from
statewide nonprofits in person and by internet surveys. The critical role of nonprofits in
democratic societies underscores the importance of knowing how to form, govern and manage
these organizations. The growth and progress of the nonprofit sector depends on developing and
improving this body of knowledge. Since its founding by Florida’s nonprofits, FANO has provided
Principals and Practices
for Florida Nonprofit Excellence
The Florida Association of Nonprofit Organizations 7480 Fairway Drive, #205, Miami Lakes, Florida, 33014 305. 557. 1764
© 2013
Principles and Practices for Florida Nonprofit Excellence
