As President of the Oberlin Heritage Center (OHC), I was surprised and baffled by a review critiquing OHC. The writer does not reflect the OHC that I know. OHC did recently embark on a transition after the retirement of the Executive Director of 20+ years, but the previous director, new director, and board crafted both a transition plan and new three-year strategic plan that ensures the museum’s long-term sustainability and growth. The organization’s annual audits and 990 submissions are shared publicly on the website, as are calendars and news postings that illustrate the continued achievements of the organization and its commitment to preserving and sharing history.
Review from Guidestar
Until recently, Oberlin Heritage Society was a model area nonprofit.
Since the recent resignation of the organization’s long-time Executive Director, the Heritage Center has started falling apart due to an inexperienced board, an ineffectual board president, untutored development committee members, and the hiring of a completely untried and untrained successor to the leadership position.
Attempting to make up for a multi-year budget shortfall that has been stabilized by pulling money from principle, the Board of Directors set off on a foolhardy attempt at a major campaign without having fundraising knowledge on the board, or any from within the new administration.
This is a well-meaning organization with a history of outstanding service to the community. Sadly, the board and fresh leader are inexperienced and continue to put the organization in financial danger with their poor choices and lack of expertise.
Beware donors: your money might be better spent someplace else.
Review from Guidestar