How we Accredit Charities

Center for Social Responsibility and Accountability (CESRA): Accreditation Process for Charitable Organizations

In a world filled with genuine philanthropy and altruism, there exists an unfortunate presence of deceptive entities that exploit the goodwill of donors. The Center for Social Responsibility and Accountability (CESRA) understands the importance of ensuring that charitable organizations are held to the highest standards of transparency and accountability. This document outlines the meticulous process through which CESRA accredits and approves charities in Africa.

Accreditation Standards:

CESRA has developed a set of 10-15 standards of accountability that charitable organizations must meet to be accredited. These standards are designed to evaluate the organization’s commitment to transparency, ethical practices, and genuine impact on the communities they serve.

Accredited Charity Profile:

Upon successful accreditation, a charity’s profile will be comprehensive and include the following details:

1. Registered Name of the Charity: The official name under which the charity is legally registered.

2. Vision and Mission Statement: A clear articulation of the organization’s overarching goals and the specific purpose for which it was established.

3. Activities Overview: A detailed description of the charity’s activities, outlining the nature and scope of its projects and initiatives.

4. Registration Body: Specification of the legal registration body (e.g., NGO, trust, society) under which the charity is registered.

5. Charity Registration Number: The unique identification number assigned to the charity upon registration.

6. Physical Location: The charity must have a physical location, verifiable on a map. CESRA does not accredit charities with only P.O. Box addresses.

7. Board Members: A minimum of 5 board members, each contributing to the governance and oversight of the organization.

8. Online Presence: The charity should have a legitimate online presence, such as a profile on CESRA’s website or active engagement on social media platforms.

9. Transparency: Willingness to disclose relevant information, including financial statements, to potential donors. This ensures transparency in the organization’s financial dealings.

10. Contact Information: Maintenance of valid working emails and telephone numbers to facilitate communication with donors and stakeholders.

11. Bank Account Name: The bank account associated with the charity should bear the same name as the registered charity, enhancing transparency in financial transactions.

Accreditation Process:

Charitable organizations seeking CESRA accreditation must undergo a thorough evaluation of their operations against the established standards. This involves a comprehensive review of documentation, interviews with key personnel, and on-site visits where applicable.

CESRA’s accreditation process aims to foster a culture of accountability within the charitable sector in Africa. By adhering to these standards, CESRA ensures that donors can confidently contribute to causes that genuinely make a positive impact on society. This process ultimately strengthens the integrity of charitable organizations and promotes a sustainable and trustworthy philanthropic environment.