The Dayton Foundation has met all national standards for U.S. community foundations.

The Ohio Association of Nonprofit Organizations (OANO) is a statewide membership association of more than 600 organizations that provides leadership, education and advocacy to enhance the ability of Ohio’s nonprofit organizations to serve their communities. The Standards for Excellence program promotes ethical practices and accountability in nonprofit organizations across the state.

The Council on Foundations and leaders of the community foundation field created the National Standards to assist community foundations in establishing legal, ethical and effective operational practices that demonstrate transparency and financial responsibility.

Philanthropy 400 survey began in 1991 by the Chronicle of Philanthropy. This survey annually reviews financial data gathered from U.S. charities and ranks them according to how much was raised from individuals, foundations and corporations.