A Message to Our Community
At Community Action in Aroostook, Washington, and Hancock Counties (formally ACAP-Aroostook County Action Program), we take very seriously the trust that our community, partners, and funders place in us. As an Agency responsible for administering public funds and delivering essential services to thousands of individuals and families each year, strong stewardship, accountability, and transparency are core to who we are.
We want our community to know that the Agency undergoes multiple layers of oversight and review—far beyond what is required of most nonprofit organizations.
Annual Independent Audit
Each year, the Agency completes a full independent financial audit. We are proud to share that for more than a decade, our audits have resulted in no findings, demonstrating consistent compliance with federal and state regulations, strong internal controls, and sound financial management.
Regular Funding Source Audits
In addition to our annual audit, many of our federal and state funding partners conduct their own reviews and monitoring visits. These audits examine program performance, financial practices, and compliance with grant requirements. The Agency continues to meet or exceed expectations in these reviews.
Rigorous Annual Assessment Under CSBG Organizational Standards
As a Community Action Agency, we are required to meet the Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) Organizational Standards, which include:
- Performance management expectations
- Administrative and financial management standards
- Governance and accountability requirements
- Community engagement and low‑income participation standards
Nonprofit Community Action Agencies must meet 58 standards, and states are required to assess each agency every year.
Since the formal review process was implemented several years ago, the Agency has consistently achieved 100% compliance with all CSBG Organizational Standards. This reflects our strong organizational capacity, sound governance, and commitment to excellence.
Voluntary Participation in the National Pathways to Excellence Program
Beyond required oversight, the Agency has voluntarily chosen to participate in the National Community Action Partnership’s Pathways to Excellence Program—a rigorous, multi‑year process modeled after the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award.
This program includes:
- Comprehensive self‑assessments
- Peer reviews
- Training and technical assistance
- Evaluation against 35 national excellence standards
The Agency has earned Silver Tier designation and is actively working toward Gold, demonstrating our commitment to continuous improvement and national best practices.
Together, these layers of accountability—annual audits, funding source reviews, CSBG Organizational Standards, and the Pathways to Excellence Program—provide strong assurance that the Agency is a responsible, transparent, and effective steward of public funds.
We are grateful for the trust our community places in us and remain committed to delivering high‑quality services with integrity, efficiency, and care.
If you have questions about our financial practices, oversight processes, or organizational standards, we welcome the opportunity to discuss them.
Email: info@acap-me.org
Phone: 207-764-3721
Web: www.acap-me.org
