For the third consecutive year, The Place of Forsyth County has been awarded a four-star rating by leading national charity evaluator, Charity Navigator, for the work that they do in the local community.

According to a press release from The Place, the top rating by Charity Navigator is awarded to nonprofit organizations with a commitment to financial health, accountability and transparency, giving credence to their efficiency and sustainability.

In the release, Charity Navigator President and CEO Michael Thatcher congratulated the 44-year-old nonprofit on its achievement and stated that it is a distinction given to very few charities in the nation.

“Attaining a four-star rating verifies that The Place of Forsyth County exceeds industry standards and outperforms most charities in your area of work,” Thatcher said in a statement. “Only 25 percent of the charities we evaluate have received at least three consecutive four-star evaluations, indicating that The Place outperforms most other charities in America.”

The Place of Forsyth County was first established in 1975 and was created as a support network and advocate for people and families experiencing financial and emergency situations in the Forsyth County area, the release states.

In 2018 alone, the nonprofit reports that it dispersed more than $1.2 million worth of food, provided $298,000 in emergency financial assistance and empowered 138 individuals to find employment, among many other accomplishments.

In a statement to the Forsyth County News, Joni Smith, The Place’s executive director, stated that they are honored and encouraged by the recognition.

“To receive this affirmation from an objective third party is very encouraging. The staff and host of volunteers at The Place are all very passionate about the work we do,” Smith said. “This four-star designation for a third consecutive year, I believe, is a testament to their dedication to the vulnerable members of the Forsyth County area.”

Smith also thanked their community of volunteers, donors and supporters for the efforts they make towards The Place’s cause and welcomed the local community to get involved.

“If anyone would like to see firsthand the work we do, please contact us – we’d be happy to show you around,” she said.