The OZ Museum/Columbian Theatre Foundation, Inc. has been accredited as a Service Enterprise, making it the tenth nonprofit in the state to achieve this distinction. This accreditation, managed by AL!VE, places them among the top 11% of nonprofits nationwide for volunteer engagement and organizational performance. The Service Enterprise program enhances nonprofits’ capacity by strategically utilizing volunteers to meet community needs and achieve greater social impact.
In June 2024, the Kansas Volunteer Commission awarded this accreditation to the OZ Museum/Columbian Theatre Foundation, valid for three years, after which they must reapply. The process included a thorough organizational assessment, 20 hours of training, 24 hours of coaching, and the implementation of change management practices, demonstrating the organization’s capability to effectively use volunteers.
The Service Enterprise concept began in 2010 and was expanded by Points of Light in 2013. Since then, the initiative has certified over 640 organizations across 31 states. AL!VE took over administration in October 2022. The Kansas Volunteer Commission, accredited in 2019 and reaccredited in 2024, serves as a Service Enterprise Hub for the Midwest. Research shows that Service Enterprises are more effective, adaptable, and efficient, yielding significant returns on investment in volunteer engagement.