Avivo’s volunteer program gains important recertification

We’re proud to announce that Avivo has been re-certified as a Service Enterprise Organization by Points of Light, an international nonprofit dedicated to volunteer service.

Points of Light defines a service enterprise organization, in part, as: “…an organization that strategically leverages volunteers to achieve operational efficiency and greater social impact. Service Enterprises are among the top 11 percent of nonprofits in the country in volunteer management and organizational performance.”

“Last year 701 volunteers donated 9,332 hours of their time to support Avivo’s programs and services, and we want that trend to continue,” says Rebecca Bedner-Faris, Avivo’s director of annual giving and volunteer services. “To qualify as a service enterprise nonprofit we had to show that Avivo’s programs met Points of Light’s high standards.”

“Last year 701 volunteers donated 9,332 hours of their time to support Avivo’s programs and services, and we want that trend to continue,” says Rebecca Bedner-Faris.

According to Points of Light, nonprofit organizations acting as service enterprises are as effective as peers but at almost half the median budget and are significantly more adaptable, sustainable and scalable.

Deloitte volunteers paint chairs for Avivo’s Family Residential Treatment program (pictured) in early June, 2019. In featured image (top), Deloitte volunteers pose after expanding a patio space for use by mothers in Avivo’s treatment programs.

“The qualifications related to effectiveness and sustainability set by Points of Light are important ones that Avivo strives to meet,” shares Kelly Matter, Avivo’s President and CEO. “Avivo’s certification as a service enterprise organization helps us execute a volunteer program that has the most impact on our mission and the volunteers who choose to serve.”

“The qualifications related to effectiveness and sustainability set by Points of Light are important ones that Avivo strives to meet,” shares Kelly Matter, Avivo’s President and CEO.

“This certification ensures that we’re creating the best, most meaningful, volunteer options in our community,” adds Bedner-Faris. “It also ensures that we have the internal processes in place to effectively manage our volunteer program.”

Upcoming volunteer needs at Avivo include our annual Build-A-Backpack Drive. More information on other opportunities for individuals or groups may be found here.