Southampton - The Independent Charities Seal of Excellence is awarded to the members of Independent Charities of America and Local Independent Charities of America that have, upon rigorous independent review, been able to certify, document, and demonstrate on an annual basis that they meet the highest standards of public accountability, program effectiveness, and cost effectiveness.

These standards include those required by the U.S. Government for inclusion in the Combined Federal Campaign, probably the most exclusive fund drive in the world. Of the 1,000,000 charities operating in the United States today, it is estimated that fewer than 50,000, or five percent, meet or exceed these standards, and, of those, fewer than 2,000 have been awarded this Seal.

This year Amaryllis Farm Equine Rescue and Sanctuary was awarded the Independent Charities Seal of Excellence.