Saturday, February 16, 2008

5 Ways to Ensure Ethical Fundraisers

1. Open communication
Show donors what the money will be used for. Then as the money comes in make sure every dime goes towards whatever project your 501 (c) 3 raised money for.
2. Set obtainable realistic goals
To ensure ethics in you campaign, make sure your board, leaders, and employees set obtainable fundraising goals. There is no need to raise money above and beyond the goal. Goals that are set too high cause ethical problems because your organization obviously doesn’t need the money.
3. Give money yourself
Individuals are the ones with ethical problems not organizations. A company can not be corrupt; it is the people within the organization that are. By giving you are ensuring that the fundraising in a valid cause.
4. Strong relationships
Your organization has a responsibility to every person who has ever donated moeny to keep them updated with what the organization is doing with the money today and from this point on. It is perfectly acceptable to ask them however, if they would like to be updated on the progress of your organization. Your donors no matter how small, are the stock holders in your organization.... keep them informed.
5. Finalize plans
Never EVER start a fundraising program and halfway through change your mind...... bad idea. Make sure all plans are finalized before you raise a dime.