(Photo: CHUCK KIRMAN/THE STAR)
Posted in the Ventura County Star – July 29, 2018
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OXNARD – Rescue Mission Alliance’s strong financial health and commitment to accountability and transparency have earned it a four-star rating from Charity Navigator, America’s largest independent charity evaluator.

The alliance operates the Ventura County Rescue Mission and Lighthouse for Women & Children in Oxnard.

This is the ninth consecutive year the alliance has earned this distinction, putting it in the top 3 percent of charities rated.

Since 2002, using objective analysis, Charity Navigator has awarded the most fiscally responsible organizations a four-star rating. In 2011, Charity Navigator added 17 metrics focusing on governance and ethical practices as well as measures of openness. These metrics, accounting for 50 percent of a charity’s overall rating, reveal which charities operate in accordance with industry best practices and whether they are open with their donors and stakeholders.

“We are delighted to again receive the top rating from an independent organization that assures our generous supporters that their donations are being used very effectively to help our neighbors in need,” said Gary Gray, CEO of the Rescue Mission Alliance. “All the credit for this achievement goes to our outstanding staff and volunteers.”

Michael Thatcher, president and CEO of Charity Navigator, said only a quarter of charities rated by Charity Navigator receive the distinction of a four-star rating.

In addition to its programs in Oxnard, the Rescue Mission Alliance operates the Central Coast, San Fernando and Victor Valley rescue missions, as well the Valley Food Bank. A range of services are provided depending on location, and they include food, shelter, and basic life necessities, recovery programs, vocational training and housing assistance.