The SPCA of Texas Receives Service Enterprise Certification from Points of Light

The SPCA of Texas has been certified as a Service Enterprise organization by Points of Light, recognizing the SPCA of Texas’ volunteer program. This process took well over a year, as the COVID-19 pandemic temporarily halted our progress as we worked to adjust our operations. We’re so proud and excited to share this accomplishment with you, so keep reading to learn more about our Service Enterprise certification!

So What is a Service Enterprise?

A Service Enterprise is 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. Research conducted by TCC Group and Deloitte shows that nonprofits operating as a Service Enterprise are as effective as peers but at almost half the median budget, and they are significantly more adaptable, sustainable and scalable. 

“Service Enterprise has allowed us to bridge the gaps between staff in different departments, helping us to better integrate our volunteers into our critical work of rescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming thousands of animals in our community,” said Karen Froehlich, President and CEO for the SPCA of Texas. “The certification process has also helped ensure that the SPCA of Texas meets our mission to provide every animal exceptional care and a loving home.”

How Does an Organization Get Certified?

In order to become certified, the SPCA of Texas was evaluated by an external organization, Points of Light, to determine the efficacy of the SPCA of Texas’ volunteer program. The SPCA of Texas volunteer program was examined for the following characteristics: Planning & Development, Leadership Support, Resource Allocation, Tracking & Evaluation, Outreach, Funding, Effective Training, Onboarding & Supervision, Technology & Communication and Partnering to Extend Reach. In order to receive the Service Enterprise certification, the SPCA of Texas needed to demonstrate excellence in the core characteristics and participate in a years’ worth of extensive trainings.

By being certified, the SPCA of Texas is proven to effectively utilize its volunteers to further its mission of helping animals in the North Texas community and beyond. In 2020, volunteer contributions and efforts were valued at $5.5 million, which made a huge impact on the organization. The SPCA of Texas is grateful for its volunteers and could not achieve its life-saving efforts without their support.

For more information about the SPCA of Texas’ Volunteer Program, please visit www.spca.org/volunteer. To learn more about Points of Light and the Service Enterprise Program, please visit https://www.pointsoflight.org/service-enterprise-program/.