By Alex Daniels

Charities can rate their diversity efforts with a new yardstick being offered by GuideStar, an organization that compiles data on nonprofits.

Using a tool on GuideStar’s website nonprofits can compile demographic data on their board members, employees, and volunteers, including their gender, sexual orientation, race and ethnicity, and any disability they might have.

Once the information has been recorded, groups can see how they measure up in relation to an evolving set of standards developed by members of the D5 coalition, a group of 26 foundations, nonprofit associations, and donor organizations.

"The face of America is changing, and foundations and nonprofits need to change with it," Kelly Brown, director of the D5 coalition, told reporters during a conference call.

A diverse work force that reflects the population it serves can help a nonprofit become more effective, according to Jacob Harold, GuideStar’s president.

Achieving diversity "is not just a moral challenge," he said in a statement. "It’s a strategic opportunity."

Nonprofit organizations can choose whether to...

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