Principles for Good Governance and Ethical Practice A Guide for Charities and Foundations OCTOBER 2007 Panel on the Nonprofit Sector CO-CONVENERS Lorie A. Slutsky, President, New York Community Paul Nelson, Former President, Evangelical Trust, New York, NY Council for Financial Accountability, M. Cass Wheeler, Chief Executive Officer, Winchester, VA American Heart Association, Dallas, TX William D. Novelli, CEO, AARP, Washington, DC PANEL MEMBERS Jon Pratt, Executive Director, Minnesota Council Susan V. Berresford, President, Ford Foundation, of Nonprofits, St. Paul, MN New York, NY John R. Seffrin, President and CEO, American Paul Brest, President, William and Flora Hewlett Cancer Society, Atlanta, GA Foundation, Menlo Park, CA Sam Singh, Former President and CEO, Michigan Linda Perryman Evans, President and CEO, Nonprofit Association, Lansing, MI The Meadows Foundation, Dallas, TX Edward Skloot, Former Executive Director, Jonathan F. Fanton, President, John D. and Surdna Foundation, New York, NY Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation, William E. Trueheart, President and CEO, Chicago, IL The Pittsburgh Foundation, Pittsburgh, PA Brian Gallagher, President and CEO, United Way William S. White, President, Charles Stewart of America, Alexandria, VA Mott Foundation, Flint, MI Robert Greenstein, Executive Director, Center on Timothy E. Wirth, President, United Nations Budget and Policy Priorities, Washington, DC Foundation, Washington, DC Steve Gunderson, President and CEO, Council on Gary L. Yates, President and CEO, The California Foundations, Washington, DC Wellness Foundation, Woodland Hills, CA Stephen B. Heintz, President and CEO, Raul Yzaguirre, Former President and CEO, Rockefeller Brothers Fund, New York, NY National Council of La Raza, Washington, DC Wade Henderson, Executive Director, Leadership Conference on Civil Rights, Washington, DC EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Dorothy A. Johnson, Trustee, W.K. Kellogg Diana Aviv, President and CEO, Foundation, Grand Haven, MI Independent Sector, Washington, DC Valerie Lies, President and CEO, Donors Forum of Chicago, Chicago, IL Cover photo credits (left to right): Habitat for Humanity International; Public Allies; İMark Godfrey/The Nature Conservancy; Ed Kashi/Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. We are delighted to share with you these principles for good governance and ethical prac- tice, which are designed to guide board members and staff leaders of every charitable organization as they work to improve their own operations. The Panel on the Nonprofit Sector has been dedicated to finding ways to strengthen governance, transparency, and ethical standards within the charitable community since its creation in October 2004 at the encour- agement of the U.S. Senate Finance Committee. Over the last three years, we have brought together thousands of people involved with charities and foundations to develop and refine recommendations to Congress, the Internal Revenue Service, and our own community that would achieve those goals. The Panel issued its first report to Congress and the nonprofit sector in June 2005, and a supplement to that report in April 2006. Together, those reports offered over 150 recommendations for actions that Congress and the Internal Revenue Service should take to improve the laws, as well as education and enforcement efforts to prevent unscrupulous individuals from abusing charitable resources for personal gain. It also outlined actions that we in the charitable community needed to take to improve our own practices. Many of those recommendations have been enacted into law through the Pension Protection Act of 2006, and we continue to work with Congress and the IRS to make improvements in the regula- tory framework under which charitable organizations operate. We know that government action cannot-and should not-replace strong, effective governance of individual organizations and constant vigilance by our own community. The Panel has spent the past eighteen months working with an outstanding advisory committee led by Rebecca Rimel, President, Pew Charitable Trusts, and Joel Fleishman, Director, Philanthropic Foundations Research Program, Terry Sanford Institute of Public Policy, Duke University, to examine how we might advance the state of governance and self-regulation throughout our community. It further invited public comment from the charitable community. The result is the 33 principles presented here. We encourage the board and staff leaders of every charitable organization to examine these principles carefully and determine how best they should be applied to their own operations. Many organizations will find that they already follow-or go beyond-these principles. Others may wish to make changes in their current practices over time, and some may conclude that certain practices do not apply to their operations. We hope these principles will help our organizations as we continue to reach for the highest standards of governance and ethical practice that the communities we serve expect and deserve. Lorie Slutsky M. Cass Wheeler President and Director Chief Executive Officer New York Community Trust American Heart Association Co-Conveners, Panel on the Nonprofit Sector Preamble Nonprofit organizations in the United States came on top of the $41 billion given by corpora- -educational, charitable, civic, and religious tions and foundations created from private money. institutions of every size and mission-represent Preserving this diversity, adaptability, and the most widespread organized expression of capacity for innovation depends in large part on Americans' dedication to the common good. The maintaining the public's trust. The public has creation of these voluntary, often grassroots orga- high expectations for both the ethical standards nizations to accomplish some public purpose is a and the impact of the country's 1.4 million distinguishing feature of our national life. Since charitable organizations, but often has trouble the 1835 publication of Alexis de Tocqueville's distinguishing one nonprofit from another. Democracy in America, they have been recognized Unethical or improper conduct by an individual internationally as a source of social cohesion, organization, though rare, can thus jeopardize the a laboratory of innovation, and a continually human and financial support on which countless adaptable means of responding to emerging ideas, other activities rely. Yet government attempts to needs, and communal opportunity. Individuals prevent such abuses, if not carefully pursued, can have continued to use their First Amendment themselves diminish the unique value that non- freedoms of speech profits bring to American life. Too heavy a regula- and association to tory hand, or too uniform and inflexible a set of create and energize legal restraints, could stifle the very creativity and organizations that variety that makes nonprofit activity worth pro- Nonprofit define common needs, tecting and encouraging. Government appropri- organizations have rally popular support, ately sets rules for the organizations and activities long embraced the and pursue innovative that are exempt from taxes and eligible to receive approaches to public tax-deductible contributions: for example, govern- need for standards problems. These ment has determined that such contributions may of ethical practice nonprofits have been not be used for partisan political activities or the that preserve and a source of national private benefit of the donor. At the same time, strengthen the achievement on many government has wisely avoided intruding on how fronts. organizations pursue their missions, manage their public's confidence. The variety of programs and structure their operations. purposes, forms, and Just as important, nonprofit organizations have motivating beliefs long embraced the need for standards of ethical that make up the charitable community in the practice that preserve and strengthen the public's United States is one reason why it has consistently confidence. Many such systems in fact already earned widespread support from large numbers of exist, though none have applied to the entire Americans. In recent decades, the percentage of range of American charitable organizations. The survey respondents expressing confidence in the pages that follow therefore set forth a compre- ethics and honesty of U.S. charities and voluntary hensive set of principles to inform the field. Their organizations overall has hovered around two- purpose is to reinforce a common understand- thirds.1 For individual charitable organizations, ing of transparency, accountability, and good responses are even more favorable, some reaching governance for the sector as a whole-not only above 70 percent. In 2006, 20 percent of all to ensure ethical and trustworthy behavior, but Americans-more than 61 million of them- equally important, to spotlight strong practices volunteered in some capacity in an assortment of that contribute to the effectiveness, durability, and different kinds of nonprofit activity.2 Individual broad popular support for charitable organizations donations totaled more than $207 billion, which of all kinds. 2 PRINCIPLES FOR GOOD GOVERNANCE AND ETHICAL PRACTICE TOWARD A BALANCED SYSTEM against misconduct will always be a well-informed OF LAW AND SELF-GOVERNANCE vigilance by members of the nonprofit commu- nity themselves, including a set of principles they Any approach to preserving the soundness and could adopt, promote sector-wide, and improve integrity of the nonprofit community must strike over time. These principles should be clear a careful balance between the two essential forms enough to be practical and readily implemented of regulation-that is, between prudent legal in a wide variety of organizations, but flexible mandates to ensure that organizations do not enough to allow each organization's governing abuse the privilege of their exempt status, and, board and management to adapt them to the for all other aspects of sound operations, well- dictates of that organization's scope and mission. informed self-governance and mutual awareness Widespread use of such principles would enable among nonprofit organizations. Such a balance organizations to improve their operations by is crucial for ensuring that structures of account- learning from each other. Critically, it would also ability and transparency are core strengths of our provide a common yardstick by which members nonprofit community, affording organizations of the public can evalu- the support they need to pursue their various call- ate how to direct their ings and the flexibility they need to adapt to the support. changing needs of their communities, their fields of endeavor, and the times. DEVELOPING T The Panel on the Nonprofit Sector has worked SECTOR-WIDE he best bulwark over the past three years to help find that balance. PRINCIPLES TO against misconduct Created in 2004 at the encouragement of the SUPPORT SELF will always be a well- leaders of the Senate Finance Committee, the REGULATION Panel had addressed concerns shared by nonprofit informed vigilance organizations, members of the public, Congress, Though given fresh by members of the and federal and state oversight agencies about impetus by current nonprofit community reports of illegal or unethical practices by some members of Congress themselves, including charitable organizations and their donors. The and by the creation Panel's Final and Supplemental Reports, issued of the Panel on the a set of principles they in 2005 and 2006 respectively, offered more than Nonprofit Sector, the could adopt, promote 100 recommendations for improving govern- idea of self-regulation sector-wide, and ment oversight, including new rules to prevent is far from a recent improve over time. unscrupulous individuals from abusing charitable preoccupation among organizations for personal gain. The Pension charitable organiza- Protection Act of 2006 enacted many of these tions. Among the recommendations into law, and the Panel is con- earliest such efforts dates back to 1918, when a tinuing to work with members of Congress and coalition of nonprofits established the National the executive branch on ways of implementing the Charities Information Bureau to help the public remaining ones. learn about the ethical practices and stewardship The Panel has been equally committed to of organizations that raise money from donations. formulating effective, broadly applicable methods Many excellent systems of self-regulation have of self-regulation since its inception in 2004. long been in use in various subsets of the sector, Its work has proceeded from a belief-among each tailored to the goals, resources, and chal- lawmakers and their staffs no less than among lenges of its particular field and membership. In charitable organizations-that the best bulwark searching for generally applicable standards for the A GUIDE FOR CHARITIES AND FOUNDATIONS 3 whole sector, the Panel's first step was therefore strongly consider following, based on their legal to commission two studies to review, analyze, and operational structure and their particular and find patterns among these existing systems. charitable purposes. The Panel then called together 34 leaders from This distinction-between firm rules based charities, foundations, academia, and oversight on law and more flexible principles that must be agencies to form a special Advisory Committee interpreted and applied differently in different on Self-Regulation. Armed with the two studies cases-is essential to understanding and using this of self-regulation regimens already in use, the document. In following this approach, the Panel Committee began its work in 2006 with a detailed on the Nonprofit Sector examined a broad con- review of principles and standards drawn from tinuum of different models, reflecting greater and more than 50 such systems, including selections lesser degrees of uniformity and means of enforce- from both the nonprofit and for-profit sectors. ment. At one end of this spectrum are systems of After extensive deliberation, the members accreditation, such as those for hospitals and insti- developed a comprehensive set of principles tutions of higher education, that carry the force drawn from current systems and incorporating of law and sanctions for violations. Further along the advice of experts in nonprofit law and on the continuum are standards that members governance. of an association or network of similar organiza- This first set of tions, such as associations of land trusts or certain draft principles religious institutions, agree to follow. While was circulated for failure to meet these standards may not force an Self-regulation public comment in organization to close its doors, the advantages to begins with good early 2007. After being a member in good standing of the umbrella governance. considering the network is usually sufficient to encourage careful resulting feedback, adherence to its rules and norms. Finally, there are the committee and standards that nonprofits subscribe to on a purely the Panel made voluntary basis, without any external verification, revisions and released a second draft for a longer because they want to strengthen their governance comment period. The wide-ranging reaction to practices and ethical conduct. both drafts demonstrated a broad interest across The first two approaches tend to be effective the nonprofit community in achieving consensus primarily with organizations that are closely affili- on the elements of transparent, accountable, ated with one another or belong to a relatively and ethical conduct. The resulting guidance and homogeneous group-where practices and profes- encouragement further strengthened the Panel's sional expectations are highly standardized or final set of principles. where social sanctions have a strong impact. For a group as broad and diverse as the whole com- USING AND ADAPTING THE PRINCIPLES munity of nonprofits, the third approach is clearly FOR YOUR ORGANIZATION more appropriate: standards of practice that organizations are encouraged, but not required, In the following pages, the Panel sets forth 33 to meet. Many national and state associations of principles of sound practice that should be con- charitable organizations with voluntary member- sidered by every charitable organization as a guide ships have found this approach benefits their for strengthening its effectiveness and account- member nonprofits. The Panel has followed the ability. Six of these principles describe actions practice, common to many such voluntary that all charitable organizations must take because associations, of describing the reasoning behind they are required by law.3 The other 27 describe each principle and offering guidance on how to actions that charitable organizations should adapt and apply it. 4 PRINCIPLES FOR GOOD GOVERNANCE AND ETHICAL PRACTICE To be sure, a significant number of nonprofit The 33 principles that follow are organized organizations already function under one of the under four main categories: more prescriptive regimens as a result of their 1. Legal Compliance and Public Disclosure participation in some subset of the sector. Yet few (principles 1-7, pages 8-12)-responsibilities of these systems offer a comprehensive approach and practices, such as implementing conflict to good governance and ethical practice. Even of interest and whistleblower policies, that will organizations that subscribe to the more compre- assist charitable organizations in complying hensive systems may well find ideas and practices with their legal obligations and providing infor- in this document that will improve their self-gov- mation to the public. ernance further. 2. Effective Governance (principles 8-20, page Still, given the wide, necessary diversity of 13-19)-policies and procedures a board of organizations, missions, and forms of activity that directors should implement to fulfill its over- make up the nonprofit community, it would be sight and governance responsibilities effectively. unwise, and in many cases impossible, to create a 3. Strong Financial Oversight (principles 21-26, set of universal standards to be applied uniformly pages 20-23)-policies and procedures an to every member. Instead, the Panel commends organization should follow to ensure wise the following set of principles to every charitable stewardship of organization as guideposts for adopting specific charitable resources. practices that best fit its particular size and 4. Responsible charitable purpose. Organizations can use these Fundraising (prin- Strengthening principles to evaluate their current standards. ciples 27-33, pages Self-regulation begins with good governance. 24-27)-policies ethics and Every charitable organization, by federal and and procedures accountability is state law, must have a board of directors or, if it organizations that an organic process is established as a charitable trust, one or more solicit funds from that requires an trustees. The board sets the organization's broad the public should policies and oversees its operations, including its follow to build ongoing commitment financial policies. The board also has a respon- donor support and by boards and sibility to create an environment in which there confidence. staff of individual is open and robust deliberation of the issues on organizations and by which it takes action. Whether or not the organi- It is advisable that zation has paid staff, the board bears the primary an organization's board the entire nonprofit responsibility for ensuring that the organization conduct a thorough community. lives up to its legal and ethical obligations to its discussion of the com- donors, consumers, and the public. For organiza- plete set of principles, tions that do have staff, the chief staff officer, in and determine how the organization should apply partnership with the board, has responsibility for each to its operations. It is possible that after this overseeing or carrying out many of the activities review, a board may conclude that certain princi- implied by these principles. It is therefore to the ples do not apply to its organization. Developing boards and chief executives of nonprofit orga- a transparent process for communicating how the nizations that this document is particularly, organization has addressed the principles, includ- though not exclusively, addressed. ing the reasons that any of the principles are not A GUIDE FOR CHARITIES AND FOUNDATIONS 5 relevant, is likely to foster a greater appreciation organizations and by the entire nonprofit of the diverse nature of the sector and a deeper community. Over time, discussion within respect for the board's good stewardship. organizations and across the community may A reference edition of these principles well result in refinement of the principles is available on the Panel's website, presented here. Such discussions would provide www.nonprofitpanel.org. It includes legal a further demonstration of the value to the whole background on each principle, a glossary of sector of coming together to improve its work. terms, the two studies on self-regulation systems For organizations whose practices do not commissioned by the Panel to inform this work, currently meet the standards recommended and the more than 50 existing self-regulation by the Panel, and for existing systems of self- systems and standards that the Panel's Advisory regulation that fall short as well, reaching those Committee on Self-Regulation studied during levels may take some time. Yet even the process its work. of striving toward these standards will strengthen Independent Sector, which convened and the organization and its ability to serve its supported the Panel, also offers information on community. The key is to begin that process its website, www.independentsector.org, to assist today. organizations in finding tools and other resources for applying these principles. 1 Independent Sector, Keeping the Trust:Confidence in Charitable Organizations in an Age of Scrutiny, August 2002, A PROCESS OF CONTINUING p. 2. VIGILANCE AND ADAPTATION 2 Bureau of Labor Statistics, Volunteering in the United States, Strengthening ethics and accountability is 2006, Washington, DC: U.S. Department of Labor, 2007. an organic process that requires an ongoing 3 Principles 1, 3, 21, 25, 26 and 27 describe actions that are commitment by boards and staff of individual required by law of all charitable organizations. 6 PRINCIPLES FOR GOOD GOVERNANCE AND ETHICAL PRACTICE Principles for Good Governance and Ethical Practice Legal Compliance and Public Disclosure page 8 Effective Governance page 13 Strong Financial Oversight page 20 Responsible Fundraising page 24 Legal Compliance and Public Disclosure 1 A charitable organization must comply with all applicable federal laws and regulations, as well as applicable laws and regulations of the states and the local jurisdictions in which it is based or operates. If the organization conducts programs outside the United States, it must also abide by applicable international laws, regulations and conventions that are legally binding on the United States. Charitable organizations are subject to a range of There are many resources to help charitable federal, state, and local laws, which are described organizations and their boards understand the in the reference version of this report available at law. The Internal Revenue Service provides a free www.nonprofitpanel.org. An organization's gov- online workshop at www.stayexempt.org, which erning board is ultimately responsible for oversee- covers tax compliance issues relevant to small and ing and ensuring that the organization complies mid-sized tax-exempt organizations. Some state with all its legal obligations and for detecting and attorneys general and other state charity officials, remedying wrongdoing by management. While as well as many national, state and regional asso- board members are not required to have special- ciations of nonprofit organizations, provide online ized legal knowledge, they should be familiar tools and resources that offer legal guidance. with the basic rules and requirements with which Organizations may also find it helpful to consult their organization must comply and should with state and local chapters of bar associations for secure the necessary legal advice and assistance to referrals to low-cost or pro bono legal assistance. structure appropriate monitoring and oversight mechanisms. 2 A charitable organization should have a formally adopted, written code of ethics with which all of its directors or trustees, staff and volunteers are familiar and to which they adhere. Adherence to the law provides a minimum stan- The process by which a code of ethics is adopted dard for an organization's behavior. Each organiza- and implemented can be just as important as the tion should also have a code of ethics that outlines code itself. The board and staff should be engaged the practices and behaviors that its staff, board, in developing, drafting, adopting, and implement- and volunteers agree to follow. The adoption of ing a code that fits the organization's characteris- such a code, though not required by law, helps tics. It should then be complemented by policies demonstrate the organization's commitment to and procedures that describe how the principles in carry out its responsibilities ethically and effec- the code will be put into practice. Organizations tively. The code should be built on the values that should include a discussion of the code of ethics in the organization embraces, and should highlight orientation sessions for new board and staff mem- expectations of how those who work with the bers and volunteers, and should regularly address organization will conduct themselves in a number adherence to the code in their ongoing work. of areas, such as the confidentiality and respect that should be accorded to clients, consumers, donors, and fellow volunteers and board and staff members. 8 PRINCIPLES FOR GOOD GOVERNANCE AND ETHICAL PRACTICE 3 A charitable organization should adopt and implement policies and procedures to ensure that all conflicts of interest, or the appearance thereof, within the organization and the board are appropriately managed through disclosure, recusal, or other means. A conflict of interest arises when a board member Conflict-of-interest policies should distinguish or staff person's duty of loyalty to the charitable between situations that give the appearance of a organization comes into conflict with a compet- conflict and those that involve a material conflict ing financial or personal interest that he or she where a board or staff member has a direct or (or a relative) may have in a proposed transac- indirect financial interest in transactions with the tion. Some such transactions are illegal, some are organization. It is important that there be in place unethical, but others may be in the best interest of a transparent process, in which board members the organization as long as certain clear procedures engage, to understand the nature of the conflict are followed. and whether it can be appropriately managed. For example, some foundations and grantmaking pub- Establishing and enforcing a conflict-of-interest lic charities prohibit grants to organizations for policy is an important part of protecting charitable which one of the funder's board or staff members organizations from unethical or illegal practices. serves as an uncompensated director or trustee. The policy need not be complex, but it must be Others require disclosure of this relationship and consistent with the laws of the state in which the recusal from the decision-making process. Still nonprofit is organized and should be tailored to others encourage board or staff members to be specific organizational needs and characteristics. engaged actively with other charitable organiza- The policy should require full disclosure of all tions, including the charities they may fund, as a potential conflicts of interest within the organiza- way of learning about those organizations and the tion. It should apply to every person who has the fields in which they work. ability to influence decisions of the organization, including board and staff members and parties Once a conflict-of-interest policy is developed, all related to them. Some organizations may extend board and senior staff members should be required the policy to substantial contributors as well. to sign it and to disclose any material conflicts of interest, both at the time they join the orga- Board members and staff should be encouraged to nization and at the beginning of each new board disclose any interest they have in a transaction or year. Many organizations use an annual question- matter that is before the organization where that naire or disclosure statement for this purpose interest could be reasonably viewed by others as and commonly provide information about board affecting the objectivity or independence of the members' conflicts to auditors or others reviewing decision maker, even if the interest is not the result the organization's financial transactions. When of the staff or board member having a formal senior employees, board members or their family affiliation with some other party. The practice of members have a material conflict of interest in a full disclosure should be fostered particularly at matter being considered by the board or the staff, board meetings, and the fact of any conflict and they should refrain from attempting to influence the action taken in response, including abstention, other decision-makers regarding the matter. Board should be recorded in the minutes. members with a material conflict of interest are required by law to recuse themselves from board discussions and votes regarding those matters, other than to respond to information requests. A GUIDE FOR CHARITIES AND FOUNDATIONS 9 4 A charitable organization should establish and implement policies and procedures that enable individuals to come forward with information on illegal practices or violations of organizational policies. This "whistleblower" policy should specify that the organization will not retaliate against, and will protect the confidentiality of, individuals who make good-faith reports. Every charitable organization, regardless of size, organized or operates. All policies should specify should have clear policies and procedures that the individuals within the organization (both allow staff, volunteers, or clients of the organi- board and staff) or outside parties to whom such zation to report suspected wrongdoing within information can be reported. Small organizations the organization without fear of retribution. with few or no paid staff may wish to designate Information on these policies should be widely an external advisor to whom concerns can be distributed to staff, volunteers and clients, and reported without any threat of retaliation. This is should be incorporated both in new employee a particular concern for family foundations whose orientations and ongoing training programs for board members and staff may not feel comfortable employees and volunteers. Such policies can help sharing concerns about suspected illegal or unethi- boards and senior managers become aware of and cal practices directly with another family member address problems before serious harm is done to or close associate of the family. Larger organiza- the organization. The policies can also assist in tions should encourage employees and volunteers complying with legal provisions that protect indi- to share their concerns with a supervisor, the viduals working in charitable organizations from president or executive director, and/or the chief retaliation for engaging in certain whistle-blowing financial officer of the organization, but should activities. Violation of such provisions may subject also provide a method of reporting anonymously organizations and the individuals responsible for to either a board member or an external entity violations to civil and criminal sanctions. specified by the organization. Some large organiza- tions have set up computerized systems that allow Policies that protect people who report wrong- for anonymous reports, and a number of private doing-sometimes known as "Whistleblower companies offer anonymous reporting services via Protection Policies" or "Policies on Reporting of a toll-free telephone number, email address, or Malfeasance or Misconduct"-generally cover sus- intranet site. pected incidents of theft; financial reporting that is intentionally misleading; improper or undocu- It is equally important that the organization have mented financial transactions; improper destruc- clear procedures to investigate all reports and take tion of records; improper use of assets; violations appropriate action. The policy should stipulate of the organization's conflict-of-interest policy; that there will be no retaliation against any indi- and any other improper occurrences regarding vidual who reports a suspected violation, except cash, financial procedures, or reporting. in those instances where the organization deter- mines that a false report was made with intent to The policy should be tailored to the nonprofit's harm the organization or an individual within the size, structure, and capacity, and it must reflect organization. the laws of the state in which the nonprofit is 5 A charitable organization should establish and implement policies and procedures to protect and preserve the organization's important documents and business records. A written document-retention policy, consistently required to demonstrate legal compliance. Such a monitored over time, is essential for protecting policy also helps to protect against allegations of the organization's records of its governance and wrongdoing by the organization or its directors administration, as well as business records that are and managers. Board members, staff and volun- 10 PRINCIPLES FOR GOOD GOVERNANCE AND ETHICAL PRACTICE teers should be made thoroughly familiar with the Charitable organizations are required to maintain policy and informed of their responsibilities in permanently their organizational documents, carrying it out. board minutes and policies, and materials related to their state and federal tax-exempt status. Other The policy should address the length of time spe- documents related to the governance, administra- cific types of documents must be retained, as well tion, fundraising, and programs of the organiza- as when it is permissible or required to destroy tion must be kept in paper or electronic form for specific types of documents. The policy should specific periods, depending on applicable laws and provide guidance to staff and volunteers for paper reporting requirements. Federal and some state and electronic documents, files and e-mail mes- laws prohibit the destruction, alteration, mutila- sages. Specific procedures should also ensure that tion, or concealment of records related to an offi- any document destruction is immediately halted cial legal proceeding. if an official investigation of the organization is under way or anticipated. 6 A charitable organization's board should ensure that the organization has adequate plans to protect its assets-its property, financial and human resources, programmatic content and material, and its integrity and reputation-against damage or loss. The board should review regularly the organization's need for general liability and directors' and officers' liability insurance, as well as take other actions necessary to mitigate risks. The board of a charitable organization is respon- self-dealing transactions. Federal and some state sible for understanding the major risks to which volunteer liability laws provide some safeguards for the organization is exposed, reviewing those risks board members who are not compensated, other on a periodic basis, and ensuring that systems have than receiving reimbursement of expenses, and been established to manage them. The level of who act in good faith. Nonetheless, while it is rare risk to which the organization is exposed and the for a charitable organization and its board to be extent of the review and risk management process the target of a lawsuit, each organization should will vary considerably based on the size, program- still take steps to protect its assets in such an event. matic focus, geographic location, and complexity The board of directors should consider including of the organization's operations. indemnification provisions in the organization's governing documents, based on a review of the Risk management generally includes a review of laws of the states in which it is based or operates. potential risks to the organization's significant The board should also assess periodically the orga- assets, such as its property, its good will, and its key nization's need for insurance coverage based on its programs and activities, and decisions about the program activities and financial capacity. Insurance most appropriate ways to protect those assets from is only one risk management strategy, however. loss. All organizations should consider carefully all Other financial strategies should also be considered of the principles in this report-for effective gov- to protect an organization's assets, such as estab- ernance, strong financial oversight, and responsible lishing reserve funds to absorb minor losses, bor- fundraising practices-as they develop appropriate rowing from lenders, and negotiating with third policies and procedures to protect their assets. parties to assume certain losses. The organization should also have policies and procedures designed Board members may have personal liability for to reduce the risk of various occurrences, or limit fines and other penalties as a result of certain legal the exposure of the organization to certain identi- violations, such as failure to pay required payroll fied risks. and other taxes or approval of excess benefit or A GUIDE FOR CHARITIES AND FOUNDATIONS 11 Even the smallest organizations should have pro- Organizations that employ staff should have writ- cedures for backing up and preserving electronic ten personnel policies that conform to federal and print copies of documents and other infor- and state laws. They should develop appropriate mation vital to their governance, financial, and procedures to protect the health and safety of both programmatic operations. Larger organizations employees and volunteers while they are at work. may require more extensive risk management Organizations providing services to vulnerable programs, including emergency preparedness and individuals should ensure that appropriate screen- disaster response plans in case of natural or man- ing, training and supervision procedures are in made disasters or other crises that may disrupt place to minimize safety risks to consumers and significantly its programs and operations. clients, as well as to paid and volunteer staff. 7 A charitable organization should make information about its operations, including its governance, finances, programs and activities, widely available to the public. Charitable organizations also should consider making information available on the methods they use to evaluate the outcomes of their work and sharing the results of those evaluations. For private foundations and most public chari- Another source of transparency and accountabil- ties, filing an accurate and complete annual ity and a key method for communicating about information return with the IRS is a legal require- the organization's work is a website, which can ment. Those returns serve as a primary source be maintained independently or through another of information about their finances, governance, organization. A website should feature the same operations and programs for federal regulators, the information recommended for annual reports, public and many state charity officials. Beyond this with links directly to or instructions on how to basic requirement, charitable organizations can request the organization's most recent IRS Form demonstrate their commitment to accountability 990 return and other financial statements. Useful and transparency by offering additional informa- websites often provide such essential information tion about what they do and how they operate. as the organization's vision and mission state- ments; lists of board and staff members; state- A good first step is to provide an annual report ment of values and code of ethics; and policies on that lists the organization's board and staff mem- conflicts of interest, whistleblower protection and bers, describes its mission, shares information on travel policy. program activities, and details financial informa- tion including, at a minimum, its total income, Information on an organization's results and how expenses and ending net assets. Such reports need they are measured can be an especially valuable not be elaborate, can be produced in paper or means of explaining its work and accounting to electronic form, and can direct the reader to other donors and the public. Such information, and the readily available documents (such as the Form ability to provide it, will vary considerably from 990 return or audited financial statements) for one organization to another. To the extent evalu- further information. If an organization chooses to ation or information on outcomes is available, produce such reports on a less frequent basis, such some version of it should be included in annual as every two or three years, it should ensure that reports, websites and other forms of communica- any intervening changes in its board and staff or tion. More information about program evaluation programs and its current financial statements are is provided in principle #19. provided as an attachment or are otherwise made known to readers of the report. 12 PRINCIPLES FOR GOOD GOVERNANCE AND ETHICAL PRACTICE Effective Governance 8 A charitable organization must have a governing body that is responsible for reviewing and approving the organization's mission and strategic direction, annual budget and key financial transactions, compensation practices and policies, and fiscal and governance policies. The board of directors bears the primary respon- When the board determines that the organization sibility for ensuring that a charitable organization is ready to add paid staff, the board is responsible fulfills its obligations to the law, its donors, its for selecting, overseeing, and, if necessary, termi- staff and volunteers, its clients, and the public nating the chief staff officer. In smaller, un-staffed at large. The board must protect the assets of the organizations, the board may have a more direct organization and provide oversight to ensure role in overseeing and sometimes delivering the that its financial, human and material resources organization's programs and services. In larger are used appropriately to further the organization's organizations, the board generally works as a mission. The board also sets the vision and mis- strategic partner to the staff leadership in ensur- sion for the organization and establishes the broad ing that the organization meets its goals and policies and strategic direction that enable the commitments. organization to fulfill its charitable purpose. 9 The board of a charitable organization should meet regularly enough to conduct its business and fulfill its duties. Regular meetings provide the chief venue for Boards often form committees and authorize them board members to review the organization's finan- to handle some work between full board meetings. cial situation and program activities, establish and The organization's governing documents should monitor compliance with key organizational poli- specify whether the board may create one or more cies and procedures, and address issues that affect such committees. In most states, the law prohibits the organization's ability to fulfill its charitable boards from delegating certain responsibilities to mission. committees, such as dissolving the organization's assets; electing or removing directors; and altering Charitable organizations should ensure that their the organization's governing documents. However, governing documents satisfy legal requirements committees may investigate and make recommen- in establishing rules for board activities, such as dations on any of these issues, subject to the full quorum requirements and methods for notifying board's consideration and decision. board members about meetings. The board should establish and implement an attendance policy While many charitable organizations find it pru- that requires board members to attend meetings dent to meet at least three times a year to fulfill regularly. Given the time and expense involved in basic governance and oversight responsibilities, traveling to meetings, some boards may choose to some with strong committee structures, including conduct their business through conference calls or organizations with widely dispersed board mem- forms of online communication that permit mem- bership, hold only one or two meetings of the full bers to hear and be heard by all other participants. board each year. Foundations that make grants In such cases, the organization's governing docu- only once a year may find that one annual meet- ments should specify that such alternative meth- ing is sufficient. ods of holding meetings are permitted. A GUIDE FOR CHARITIES AND FOUNDATIONS 13 10 The board of a charitable organization should establish its own size and structure and review these periodically. The board should have enough members to allow for full deliberation and diversity of thinking on governance and other organizational matters. Except for very small organizations, this generally means that the board should have at least five members. The ideal size of a board depends on many factors, of board members to exercise substantial control. such as the age of the organization, the nature and Conversely, smaller boards may elicit more active geographic scope of its mission and activities, and participation from each member, but they should its funding needs. Although a larger board may consider whether their members collectively have ensure a wide range of perspectives and expertise, the full range of knowledge and experience neces- a very large board may become unwieldy and sary to inform their decisions, and, if not, provide end up delegating too much responsibility to an opportunities for the board to confer with outside executive committee or permitting a small group experts or advisory groups on specific matters. 11 The board of a charitable organization should include members with the diverse background (including, but not limited to, ethnic, racial and gender perspectives), experience, and organizational and financial skills necessary to advance the organization's mission. Boards of charitable organizations generally strive that may undertake an audit or review and to to include members with expertise in budget assist the board in making sound financial deci- and financial management, investments, person- sions. This need not entail advanced training in nel, fundraising, public relations and marketing, accounting or financial management. If the board governance, advocacy, and leadership, as well as finds itself unable to recruit members with such some members who are knowledgeable about skills, it should contract with or seek pro bono the charitable organization's area of expertise or services of a qualified financial advisor, other programs, or who have a special connection to its than its auditor, to assist the board in its financial constituency. Some organizations seek to maintain responsibilities. a board that respects the culture of and reflects the community served by the organization. Boards Organizations should also consider the require- increasingly are being encouraged to be inclusive ments of current and prospective funding sources of and sensitive to diverse backgrounds when regarding the composition of the boards of their recruiting board members, in addition to purpose- grantees. fully recruiting board members with expertise and professional or personal experiences that will be Some donors to private foundations wish to beneficial to the organization. involve family members on the boards of their foundations to ensure that the donors' philan- Because the board must ensure that all financial thropic tradition will continue through future matters of the organization are conducted legally, generations. If family members do not have the ethically and in accordance with proper account- necessary expertise and experience, the board may ing rules, it should make every effort to ensure wish to bring in advisors. The board should also that at least one member has "financial literacy" consider the advantages of diversity and the per- -that is, the ability to understand financial state- spective offered by representatives from outside ments, to evaluate the bids of accounting firms the family. 14 PRINCIPLES FOR GOOD GOVERNANCE AND ETHICAL PRACTICE 12 A substantial majority of the board of a public charity, usually meaning at least two-thirds of the members, should be independent. Independent members should not: (1) be compensated by the organization as employees or independent contractors; (2) have their compensation determined by individuals who are compensated by the organization; (3) receive, directly or indirectly, material financial benefits from the organization except as a member of the charitable class served by the organization; or (4) be related to anyone described above (as a spouse, sibling, parent or child), or reside with any person so described. All directors of nonprofit corporations have a This principle does not apply to private founda- "duty of loyalty" that requires them to put the tions and certain medical research institutions that interests of the organization above their personal operate under specific legal restrictions regarding interests and to make decisions they believe are self-dealing transactions, and other charitable in the best interest of the nonprofit. Individuals organizations whose articles of incorporation who have a personal financial interest in the affairs or trust instruments include special stipulations of a charitable organization may not be as likely regarding board composition. For example, an to question the decisions of those who determine organization established under the auspices of a their compensation or fees or to give unbiased religious institution may be required to include consideration to changes in management or pro- clergy or other paid representatives of that institu- gram activities. tion on its board. A supporting organization may be required to have representatives of its supported The founders of a nonprofit corporation some- organizations on its board. For a complete list times initially turn to family members and busi- of the types of organizations excluded from this ness partners to serve on its board of directors, but principle, consult the reference addition of these interlocking financial relationships can increase principles at www.nonprofitpanel.org. the difficulty of exercising the level of independent judgment required of all board members. It is When a charitable organization determines that therefore important to the long-term success and having a majority of independent board members accountability of the organization that a sizeable is not appropriate, the board and staff should majority of the individuals on the board be free of evaluate their procedures and meeting formats to financial conflicts of interest. ensure that board members are able to fulfill their responsibilities to provide independent, objec- tive oversight of management and organizational performance. 13 The board should hire, oversee, and annually evaluate the performance of the chief executive officer of the organization, and should conduct such an evaluation prior to any change in that officer's compensation, unless there is a multi-year contract in force or the change consists solely of routine adjustments for inflation or cost of living. Boards of directors have the authority to delegate board to evaluate the performance and approve responsibility for maintaining the daily operations the compensation of the chief executive annually of the organization to a chief executive officer. and in advance of any change in compensation. One of the most important responsibilities of the The board may choose to approve a multi-year board, then, is to select, supervise, and determine contract with the CEO that provides for increases a compensation package that will attract and in compensation periodically or when the CEO retain a qualified chief executive. The organiza- meets specific performance measures, but it is tion's governing documents should require the full important that the board institute some regular A GUIDE FOR CHARITIES AND FOUNDATIONS 15 basis for reviewing whether the terms of that When governing boards use compensation consul- contract have been met. If the board designates tants to help determine the appropriate salary for a separate committee to review the compensation the chief executive, the consultant should report and performance of the CEO, that committee directly to the board or its compensation commit- should be required to report its findings and tee and should not be engaged in other business recommendations to the full board for approval with or have any conflicts of interest with regard and should provide any board member with to the chief executive. details, upon request. The board should then document the basis for its decision and be Governing boards are responsible for hiring and prepared to answer questions about it. establishing the compensation of the CEO and for approving the compensation range of other per- When determining the reasonableness of the com- sons in a position to exercise substantial control of pensation package paid to the chief executive, the the organization's resources. It is the responsibility board should ensure that the individuals involved of the CEO to hire and set the compensation of in making the compensation recommendation other staff, consistent with reasonable compensa- do not have a conflict of interest with regard to tion guidelines set by the board. If the CEO finds the executive. The board or its committee should it necessary to offer compensation that equals or examine the compensation paid by similarly situ- surpasses his or her own, in order to attract and ated organizations, both taxable and non-taxable, retain certain highly qualified and experienced for functionally comparable positions. Many staff, the board should review the compensation professional associations prepare regular com- package to ascertain that it does not provide an pensation surveys that can be useful in evaluating excess benefit. compensation, or the committee may turn to compensation surveys compiled by independent The board or a designated compensation commit- firms or actual written offers from similar orga- tee should also review the overall compensation pro- nizations competing for the executive's services. gram, including salary ranges and benefits provided Some organizations may find it difficult to locate for particular types of positions, to assess whether salary surveys or other data to establish compa- the compensation program is fair, reasonable, and rable values for executive compensation within sufficient to attract and retain high-quality staff. their geographic area or field of operation, but the board should still seek objective external data to support its compensation decisions. 14 The board of a charitable organization that has paid staff should ensure that the positions of chief staff officer, board chair, and board treasurer are held by separate individuals. Organizations without paid staff should ensure that the positions of board chair and treasurer are held by separate individuals. Concentrating authority for the organization's to make fair and impartial judgments about the governance and management practices in one or appropriate compensation of the executive. two people removes valuable checks and balances that help ensure that conflicts of interest and other When the board deems it is in the best interests personal concerns do not take precedence over the of the charitable organization to have the chief best interests of the organization. Some state laws executive officer serve as the board chair, the board require that the offices of president and treasurer should appoint another board member (some- be held by different individuals. Both the board times referred to as the "lead director") to handle chair and the treasurer should be independent issues that require a separation of duties, such of the chief staff executive to provide appropri- as reviewing the responsibilities, performance or ate oversight of the executive's performance and compensation of the chief executive. 16 PRINCIPLES FOR GOOD GOVERNANCE AND ETHICAL PRACTICE 15 The board should establish an effective, systematic process for educating and communicating with board members to ensure that they are aware of their legal and ethical responsibilities, are knowledgeable about the programs and activities of the organization, and can carry out their oversight functions effectively. Most people volunteer for boards because of a who have served on the boards of other organizations can commitment to the mission of the organization benefit from a specific orientation to each organization for and the value of the organization's work to society. which they provide board service. Charitable organizations, Yet they may not have the training or information if needed and if funds permit, should provide opportuni- necessary to understand adequately their fiduciary ties for board members to obtain special training or advice responsibilities or common practices of boards of on legal and financial issues and responsibilities. It is also charitable organizations. advisable for an attorney or insurance agent who is knowledgeable about board liability to explain the legal An effective board orientation process fills this protections available to board members, as well as the need by detailing the broad oversight responsibili- options for insurance. ties of the board and the specific legal and ethical responsibilities of individual members. Members The ongoing process of board education includes ensur- should be made aware of their personal liability ing that members have received and reviewed sufficient for the board's actions-or for its failure to take information on the issues to be addressed at each board action-and of the protections available to them. meeting. Agendas and background materials should be All board members should receive oral and written distributed far enough in advance of all board meetings so instruction regarding the organization's govern- that all members can be expected to read and consider the ing documents, finances, program activities, and issues prior to attending the meeting. governing policies and practices. Even members 16 Board members should evaluate their performance as a group and as individuals no less frequently than every three years, and should have clear procedures for removing board members who are unable to fulfill their responsibilities. A regular process of evaluating the board's per- The board should establish clear guidelines for the duties formance can help to identify strengths and and responsibilities of each member, including meeting weaknesses of its processes and procedures and to attendance, preparation and participation; committee provide insights for strengthening orientation and assignments; and the kinds of expertise board members are educational programs, the conduct of board and expected to have or develop in order to provide effective committee meetings, and interactions with board governance. Many boards assign responsibility for oversight and staff leadership. Many boards will find it help- of the board evaluation and development function to their ful to conduct such a self-assessment annually; executive committees or to a separate board development others may prefer a schedule that coincides with committee. Board members with this responsibility should the terms of board service or regular long-range be empowered to discuss problems of attendance or other planning cycles. A number of print and online aspects of board performance with individual members tools, ranging from sample self-assessment ques- to ascertain whether the problem can be corrected or the tionnaires to more complex evaluation procedures, individual needs to resign or be removed from the board. can help an organization design a board evaluation Removing a non-performing board member generally or self-assessment process that best meets its needs. requires the action of the full board or, if the organization has members, the action of the membership. A GUIDE FOR CHARITIES AND FOUNDATIONS 17 17 The board should establish clear policies and procedures setting the length of terms and the number of consecutive terms a board member may serve. Every charitable organization should determine experienced members. Many organizations find it useful whether its best interests are served by limiting to establish policies making board members eligible for re- the length of time an individual may serve on its election after taking a year or more off. It is always valuable board. Some organizations have found that such to find ways in which members who have completed their limits help in bringing fresh energy, ideas and service can continue to be engaged in the organization's expertise to the board through new members. programs and services. Others have concluded that term limits may deprive the organization of valuable experience, Organizations that choose not to limit the terms of continuity and, in some cases, needed support board service should consider establishing a regular pro- provided by board members. They believe organi- cess whereby the board reaffirms its commitment to this zations should rely solely on rigorous board proce- approach and members actively indicate their desire to dures for evaluating board members and removing continue serving on the board. Some organizations cre- those who are not able to fulfill their governance ate an alumni council or honorary board to provide an responsibilities effectively. Some family founda- easy option for board members who feel it is time to leave tions may decide not to limit board terms if their active service but still wish to be involved in the organiza- donors expressed a wish that family members con- tion. Others specify the age at which a member must retire tinue serving as long as they are willing and able. from the board. Organizations that do limit the terms of board Whether or not the organization establishes board term service should consider establishing a staggered limits, it is always helpful to have a process for involving term process that provides a continual flow of prospective board members on committees or task forces new participants while retaining a cadre of more until there is an appropriate opening on the board. 18 The board should review organizational and governing instruments no less frequently than every five years. Regular reviews of the organization's articles of Most state laws permit the state attorney gen- incorporation, bylaws and other governing instru- eral to file suit asking the court to hold a board ments help boards ensure that the organization is accountable for failure to abide by the require- abiding by the rules it has set for itself and deter- ments set forth in these basic documents. If it mine whether changes need to be made to those becomes impractical or no longer feasible to carry instruments. The board may choose to delegate out the purposes of the organization as outlined some of this deliberation to a committee, but in its articles of incorporation, the board should the full board should consider and act upon the take appropriate action to amend the articles and committee's recommendations. to file the amended articles with state officials, as required. In some instances, a charitable organiza- tion may need court approval to amend its orga- nizing documents. 18 PRINCIPLES FOR GOOD GOVERNANCE AND ETHICAL PRACTICE 19 The board should establish and review regularly the organization's mission and goals and should evaluate, no less frequently than every five years, the organization's programs, goals and activities to be sure they advance its mission and make prudent use of its resources. As stewards of the public's trust and the resources Although discussions of individual program activities and invested in the organization, board members have accomplishments are typical of most board meetings, these an obligation to ensure that the organization uses are not a substitute for a more rigorous periodic evaluation its resources as effectively as possible to advance its of the organization's overall impact and effectiveness in charitable mission. Every board should therefore light of goals and objectives that the board has approved. set strategic goals and review them annually, gen- erally as part of the annual budget review process. Because organizations and their purposes differ, it is This review should address current needs and incumbent on each organization to develop its own process anticipated changes in the community or program for evaluating effectiveness. Most organizations should area in which the organization operates that may have at least an informal review of their progress on goals affect future operations. It should also consider the and objectives annually, but, because of the time and cost financial and human resources that are needed to involved, they may choose to conduct a more rigorous accomplish the organization's goals. Such periodic evaluation less frequently. Even for organizations whose performance reviews and assessments are a work is not properly measured in one-year increments, common feature of many self-regulation, such as scientific research or youth-development programs, accreditation and funding programs in which interim benchmarks can be identified to assess whether the nonprofit organizations participate. work is moving in the right direction. 20 Board members are generally expected to serve without compensation, other than reimbursement for expenses incurred to fulfill their board duties. A charitable organization that provides compensation to its board members should use appropriate comparability data to determine the amount to be paid, document the decision and provide full disclosure to anyone, upon request, of the amount and rationale for the compensation. Although some charitable organizations reimburse be clearly differentiated from any compensation expenses related to board work, the vast majority paid for board service. of board members serve without compensation. In fact, board members of public charities often Board members of charitable organizations are donate both time and funds to the organization, a responsible for ascertaining that any compensa- practice that supports the sector's spirit of giving tion they receive does not exceed to a significant and volunteering. degree the compensation provided for positions in comparable organizations with similar responsi- When organizations find it appropriate to com- bilities and qualifications. Some organizations hire pensate board members due to the nature, time or compensation consultants to identify comparable professional competencies involved in the work, compensation levels, some rely on data available they must be prepared to provide detailed docu- through national and regional associations or for- mentation of the amount of and reasons for such profit firms, and some conduct their own surveys compensation, including the responsibilities of of compensation paid by similar organizations. board members and the services they provide. Any When they establish their own compensation, compensation provided to board members must board members generally cannot be considered be reasonable and necessary to support the perfor- independent authorizing bodies and therefore mance of the organization in its exempt function. generally cannot avail themselves of the legal Compensation paid to board members for services protections accorded to such bodies. in the capacity of staff of the organization should A GUIDE FOR CHARITIES AND FOUNDATIONS 19 Strong Financial Oversight 21 A charitable organization must keep complete, current, and accurate financial records. Its board should receive and review timely reports of the organization's financial activities and should have a qualified, independent financial expert audit or review these statements annually in a manner appropriate to the organization's size and scale of operations. Complete and accurate financial statements are opted to work with an independent accountant essential for a charitable organization to fulfill its have noted that the accountant provided invalu- legal responsibilities and for its board of directors able guidance. to exercise appropriate oversight of the organiza- tion's financial resources. A board that does not Every charitable organization that has its financial have members with financial expertise should statements independently audited, whether or retain a qualified paid or volunteer accounting not it is legally required to do so, should consider professional to establish whether financial sys- establishing an audit committee composed of tems and reports are organized and implemented independent board members with appropriate appropriately. financial expertise. By reducing possible conflicts of interest between outside auditors and the Having financial statements prepared and audited organization's paid staff, an audit committee can in accordance with generally accepted account- provide the board greater assurance that the audit ing principles and auditing standards improves has been conducted appropriately. If state law the quality of the information. Each organization permits, the board may appoint non-voting, non- must ensure that it has its annual financial state- staff advisors rather than board members to the ments audited or reviewed as required by law in audit committee. the states in which it operates or raises funds or as required by government or private funders. When Organizations with small boards of directors or an audit is not legally required, a financial review limited organizational structures may not choose offers a less expensive option that still provides the to delegate the audit responsibility to a separate board, regulators and the public with some assur- committee. Audit committees may also be inap- ance of the accuracy of the organization's financial propriate for charitable organizations that are records. Many smaller organizations that have organized as trusts rather than as corporations. 22 The board of a charitable organization must institute policies and procedures to ensure that the organization (and, if applicable, its subsidiaries) manages and invests its funds responsibly, in accordance with all legal requirements. The full board should review and approve the organization's annual budget and should monitor actual performance against the budget. Sound financial management is among the most management should be the task of staff or, in important responsibilities of the board of direc- the case of organizations with no or one staff tors. The board should establish clear policies member, designated volunteers who have the to protect the organization's financial assets and necessary time and skills. The board is respon- ensure that no one person bears the sole respon- sible for reviewing practices and reports to ensure sibility for receiving, depositing, and spending that those staff or volunteers are adhering to the its funds. Day-to-day accounting and financial board-approved policies. 20 PRINCIPLES FOR GOOD GOVERNANCE AND ETHICAL PRACTICE The organization's annual budget should reflect organization's net assets have been declining over a the programs and activities the organization will period of years, or if future funding seems likely to undertake in the coming year and the resources change significantly, the board may need to take it will need to raise or generate to support those steps to achieve or maintain stability. activities. Careful review of regular financial reports showing both budgeted and actual expen- Whenever possible, an organization should generate ditures and revenues will permit the board to enough income to create cash reserves for its future. determine whether adjustments must be made in When an organization has built sufficient reserves spending to accommodate changes in revenues. to allow for investments, the board is responsible for Financial reports should also reflect how the orga- establishing policies that govern how the funds will nization has adhered to any restrictions placed on be invested and what portion of the returns, if any, funds by donors or grant programs. can be used for immediate operations or programs. The boards of organizations with sizeable reserves Prudent financial oversight requires that the board or endowments generally select one or more inde- look beyond monthly or annual financial reports pendent investment managers to handle the organi- to consider how the organization's current finan- zation's investments. In those cases, the board or a cial performance compares with that of previous committee of the board should monitor the outside years and how its financial future appears. If the investment manager(s) regularly. 23 A charitable organization should not provide loans (or the equivalent, such as loan guarantees, purchasing or transferring ownership of a residence or office, or relieving a debt or lease obligation) to directors, officers, or trustees. The practice of providing loans to board members also forbid such loans or allow them only in very and executives, while infrequent, has created both limited circumstances. real and perceived problems for public charities. While there may be circumstances in which a When a charitable organization deems it necessary charitable organization finds it necessary to offer to provide loans to an employee-for example, to loans to staff members, there is no justification enable a new employee of a charity to purchase for making loans to board members. Federal laws a residence near the organization's offices-the prohibit private foundations, supporting organiza- terms of such loans should be clearly understood tions and donor-advised funds from making loans and approved by the board. Such loans then must to substantial contributors, board members, orga- be reported on the organization's annual informa- nization managers and related parties. Many states tion returns (Forms 990 and 990-PF). A GUIDE FOR CHARITIES AND FOUNDATIONS 21 24 A charitable organization should spend a significant percentage of its annual budget on programs that pursue its mission. The budget should also provide sufficient resources for effective administration of the organization, and, if it solicits contributions, for appropriate fundraising activities. Charitable organizations have an obligation to spective members, collect membership dues, and devote their resources to the charitable purposes ensure that members receive promised benefits. for which they were granted tax exemption, and Private foundations and some public charities to spend donated funds on the programs and also have expenses associated with making grants activities for which the funds were contributed. and contributions to other organizations and At the same time, the successful operation of any individuals. business or organization-including the respon- sible pursuit of nearly any kind of charitable Qualified personnel are crucial for providing pro- purpose-requires effective management and grams, recruiting and managing volunteers, raising administration. Administrative activities include funds, and ensuring proper administration. The financial and investment management, personnel costs of compensating personnel, including salaries services, recordkeeping, soliciting and manag- and benefits, must be allocated to the particular ing contracts, legal services, and supporting the functions they perform for the organization based governing body of the organization. Not only on appropriate records. do these elements ensure that the organization complies with all legal requirements, but they also Some self-regulation systems and "watchdog" help provide complete, accurate, and timely infor- organizations recommend that public charities mation to donors, the public, and government spend at least 65 percent of their total expenses regulators. on program activities. This standard is reasonable for most organizations, but there can be extenuat- Charitable organizations rely on other supporting ing circumstances that require an organization services to carry out their missions. Most public to devote more resources to administrative and charities have fundraising operations to encourage fundraising activities. The board should review potential donors to contribute money, materials the budget and financial reports to determine and other assets and to ensure that donors receive whether the organization is allocating its funds necessary reports about how their contributions appropriately. were used. Some public charities also rely on membership development activities to solicit pro- 22 PRINCIPLES FOR GOOD GOVERNANCE AND ETHICAL PRACTICE 25 A charitable organization should establish clear, written policies for paying or reimbursing expenses incurred by anyone conducting business or traveling on behalf of the organization, including the types of expenses that can be paid for or reimbursed and the documentation required. Such policies should require that travel on behalf of the organization is to be undertaken in a cost-effective manner. A charitable organization's travel policies should for premium or first-class travel, but boards should be unambiguous and easy to follow, and should retain the flexibility to permit exceptions when reflect the organization's principled judgment they are in the organization's best interest. Such about what it considers "reasonable" expenditures exceptions, if any, should be explicit, consistently for individuals who must travel to conduct busi- applied and transparent to board members and ness on its behalf. These policies should include others associated with the organization. procedures for properly documenting expenses incurred and their organizational purpose. An organization's policies should reflect the requirements and restrictions on travel expendi- As a general practice, travel policies should ensure tures imposed under current law. The detailed that the business of the organization is carried out guidance provided in IRS Publication 463: Travel, in a cost-effective manner. Decisions on travel Entertainment, Gift and Car Expenses should expenditures should be based on how best to fur- serve as a guide for managers of charitable organi- ther the organization's charitable purposes, rather zations in avoiding lavish, extravagant or excessive than on the title or position of the person travel- expenditures. ing. Charitable funds generally should not be used 26 A charitable organization should neither pay for nor reimburse travel expenditures for spouses, dependents or others who are accompanying someone conducting business for the organization unless they, too, are conducting such business. If, in certain circumstances, an organization deems traveling on behalf of the organization. This prin- it proper to cover expenses for a spouse, depen- ciple need not apply to de minimis expenses such dent, or other person accompanying someone on as the cost of a meal at organization functions business travel, the payment generally must, by where participants are invited to bring a guest. law, be treated as compensation to the individual A GUIDE FOR CHARITIES AND FOUNDATIONS 23 Responsible Fundraising 27 Solicitation materials and other communications addressed to donors and the public must clearly identify the organization and be accurate and truthful. Charitable solicitations-whether in print, via www.nonprofitpanel.org.) Descriptions of the Internet, over the phone, or in person-are program activities and the financial condition of often the only contact a donor has with a chari- the organization must be current and accurate, table organization. Clear and accurate solicitation and any references to past activities or events materials help potential contributors to contact should be dated appropriately. the organization and obtain information necessary to distinguish an organization with a solid history If an organization is not eligible to receive tax- of service to the community from one that may deductible contributions, it must disclose this claim a similar name or purpose, but whose fund- limitation at the time of solicitation. Similarly, a raising appeal is misleading. charitable organization that the IRS has recog- nized as eligible to receive tax-deductible contri- A donor has the right to know the name of anyone butions should clearly indicate in its solicitations soliciting contributions, the name and location of how donors may obtain proof of that status. the organization that will receive the contribution, The charity may post a copy of its IRS letter of a clear description of its activities, the intended determination on its website or offer to provide a use of the funds to be raised, a contact for obtain- copy of the letter to donors who request it. If the ing additional information, and whether the solicitation promises any goods or services to the individual requesting the contribution is acting donor in exchange for contributions, the materi- as a volunteer, employee of the organization, or als should also clearly indicate the portion of the hired solicitor. (A Donor Bill of Rights, endorsed contribution (that is, the value of any goods or by many organizations, is available at services provided) that is not tax-deductible. 28 Contributions must be used for purposes consistent with the donor's intent, whether as described in the relevant solicitation materials or as specifically directed by the donor. When a donor responds to a charitable solicitation needs to carry out that project. If the organization with a contribution, he or she has a right to expect is unable or unwilling to use the contribution as that the funds will be used as promised. Solicita- stated in its appeal or in the donor's communica- tions should therefore indicate whether the funds tion, it has an obligation to contact the donor and they generate will be used to further the general request permission to apply the gift to another programs and operations of the organization or to purpose or offer to return the gift. Charitable support specific programs or types of programs. A organizations should strive to make clear in mate- donor may also indicate through a letter, a written rials that solicit contributions for a specific pro- note on the solicitation, or a personal conversa- gram how they will handle such circumstances, tion with the solicitor or another official of the charitable organization how he or she expects the A charitable organization should carefully review contribution to be used. the terms of any contract or grant agreement before accepting a donation. If the organization In some cases, an organization may not receive will be unable or unwilling to comply with any of sufficient contributions to proceed with a given the terms requested by a donor, it should negoti- project or it may receive more donations than it ate any necessary changes prior to concluding the 24 PRINCIPLES FOR GOOD GOVERNANCE AND ETHICAL PRACTICE transaction. Particularly in the case of substantial resolutions indicating that the organization retains contributions, the recipient should develop an "variance powers," the right to modify condi- agreement that specifies any rights it may have tions on the use of assets. Such powers should be to modify the terms of the gift if circumstances clearly communicated to donors through a written warrant. Some charitable organizations include agreement. provisions in their governing documents or board 29 A charitable organization must provide donors with specific acknowledgments of charitable contributions, in accordance with IRS requirements, as well as information to facilitate the donors' compliance with tax law requirements. Acknowledging donors' contributions is important fair market value, although cost may be an impor- not only because of IRS requirements, it also helps tant factor. For example, a hotel may donate the in building donors' confidence in and support food served at a banquet, thus imposing zero cost for the activities they help to fund. Organizations on the charitable organization. But the fair mar- should establish procedures for acknowledging ket value of a donor's meal at that banquet would contributions in a timely manner and for provid- not be zero; it would be the price he or she would ing appropriate receipts for cash contributions have to pay for a similar meal at that hotel. The if requested. Regular updates to donors on the charitable organization does not have to include activities they support is another way to build information on fair market value in a donor trust and loyalty, as is providing ways for contribu- acknowledgement if that value is not more than tors to find more information on their own-say, 2 percent of the contribution or $89, whichever through a website, print publications or visits to is less. (These are 2007 amounts; the IRS changes the organization's office. them periodically.) If the organization has provided goods or services It is generally unwise, and may pose a conflict of to the donor in exchange for or recognition of the interest, for a charitable organization to appraise contribution, an acknowledgement must include the value of gifts of property from taxpayers seek- a good-faith estimate of the fair market value of ing income tax deductions for such contributions. those goods or services-that is, the amount the Organizations should, however, alert donors donor would have to pay to purchase those goods to IRS rules for substantiating such claims and or services independently. The cost of the item to encourage them to seek appropriate tax or legal the charitable organization does not determine its counsel when making significant non-cash gifts. 30 A charitable organization should adopt clear policies, based on its specific exempt purpose, to determine whether accepting a gift would compromise its ethics, financial circumstances, program focus or other interests. Some charitable contributions have the potential protection laws or other rules. Some types of cor- to create significant problems for an organiza- porate sponsorships or interests in corporate stock tion or a donor. Knowingly or not, contributors or assets may result in unrelated business income may ask a charity to disburse funds for illegal or for a charitable organization. Donors may also face unethical purposes, and other gifts may subject adverse tax consequences if a charity is unable to the organization to liability under environmental use a gift of property in fulfilling its mission and A GUIDE FOR CHARITIES AND FOUNDATIONS 25 must instead sell or otherwise dispose of the scope of its mission and purpose, unless the item property soon after the donation is received. is intended for resale or would otherwise produce needed revenue for the organization. It should list A gift-acceptance policy provides some protection any funding sources, types of contributions, or for the board and staff, as well as for potential conditions that would prevent the organization donors, by outlining the rules and procedures by from accepting a gift. The organization should which an organization will evaluate whether it also consider establishing rules and procedures can accept a contribution even before an offer is for determining whether a gift is acceptable and actually made. The policy should make clear that should identify circumstances under which a the organization generally will not accept any review by legal counsel or other experts would be non-cash gifts that are counter to or outside the required before accepting a gift. 31 A charitable organization should provide appropriate training and supervision of the people soliciting funds on its behalf to ensure that they understand their responsibilities and applicable federal, state and local laws, and do not employ techniques that are coercive, intimidating, or intended to harass potential donors. A charitable organization may be legally respon- may be tax-deductible, and who the donor can sible when those who solicit on its behalf engage contact for further information. in illegal or fraudulent practices. Yet even beyond ensuring that fundraising practices are lawful If a charitable organization decides to use an out- and honest, a charitable organization has many side professional fundraising firm or consultant, reasons to provide careful training and supervi- it should have a clear contract-as required by sion to those who solicit donations on its behalf. law and guided by good practice-that outlines The most obvious reason is that they are often a the responsibilities of the organization receiv- potential donor's first, and sometimes only, direct ing the funds and of the firm or consultant. The contact with the organization. The organization fundraiser must agree to abide by any registration should therefore ensure that its fundraisers are and reporting requirements of the jurisdictions respectful of a donor's concerns and do not use in which fundraising will be conducted, as well coercive or abusive language or strategies to secure as federal restrictions on telephone, email, or fax contributions, misuse personal information about solicitations. The charitable organization should potential donors, pursue personal relationships verify that the outside solicitor is registered as that are subject to misinterpretation by poten- required in any state in which the solicitor will be tial donors, or mislead potential donors in other seeking contributions. ways. All those who solicit contributions on the organization's behalf, including volunteers, should In general, those soliciting funds on behalf of be provided with clear materials and instructions charities should refrain from giving specific legal, on what information to provide to prospective financial and tax advice to individual donors. donors, including the organization's name and Rather, when such questions arise, fundraisers address, how the donor can learn more about the should encourage donors to consult their own organization, the purposes for which donations legal counsel or other professional advisors before will be used, whether all or part of the donation finalizing a contribution. 26 PRINCIPLES FOR GOOD GOVERNANCE AND ETHICAL PRACTICE 32 A charitable organization should not compensate internal or external fundraisers based on a commission or a percentage of the amount raised. Compensation for fundraising activities should that could be regarded by legal authorities or per- reflect the skill, effort, and time expended by ceived by the public as "excessive compensation" the individual or firm on behalf of the charitable compared to the actual work conducted. Percent- organization. Many professional associations of age-based compensation may also be skewed by fundraisers prohibit their members from accepting unexpected or unsolicited gifts received by the payment for fundraising activities based on a per- charitable organization through no effort of the centage of the amount of charitable income raised fundraiser. or expected to be raised. Basing compensation on a percentage of the money raised can encourage A similar logic applies to employees. Some chari- fundraisers to put their own interests ahead of table organizations choose to provide bonuses to those of the organization or the donor and may employees for exceptional work in fundraising, lead to inappropriate techniques that jeopardize administrative, or program activities. If so, the the organization's values and reputation and the criteria for such bonuses should be clearly based donor's trust in the organization. Percentage- on the quality of the work performed, rather than based compensation may also lead to payments on a percentage of the funds raised. 33 A charitable organization should respect the privacy of individual donors and, except where disclosure is required by law, should not sell or otherwise make available the names and contact information of its donors without providing them an opportunity at least once a year to opt out of the use of their names. Preserving the trust and support of donors any lists upon request and should ensure that all requires that donor information be handled with donors at least once a year are provided informa- respect and confidentiality to the maximum extent tion about how they may request that their names permitted by law. Charitable organizations should and contact information not be shared outside the disclose to donors whether and how their names organization. may be used, and provide all donors, at the time a contribution is made, an easy way to indicate Organizations that gather personal information that they do not wish their names or contact from donors and other visitors to their websites information to be shared outside the organiza- should have a privacy policy, easily accessible tion. In all solicitation and other promotional from those websites, that informs visitors to the materials, organizations should also provide a site what information, if any, is being collected means, such as a check-off box or other "opt-out" about them, how the information will be used, procedure, for donors and others who receive how to inform the organization if the visitor does such materials to request that their names be not wish personal information shared outside the deleted from similar mailings, faxes or electronic organization, and what security measures the char- communications in the future. The organization ity has in place to protect personal information. should immediately remove a donor's name from A GUIDE FOR CHARITIES AND FOUNDATIONS 27 Panel on the Nonprofit Sector Staff Executive Director Development Staff Diana Aviv Sherry Rockey Deborah Briggs Project Director Patricia Read Administrative Support Gina Catedrilla Assistant Project Director Staci Morgan Jennifer Chandler Hauge Communications Staff Patricia Nash Christel Bill Wright Additional support provided by Jennifer Frias and Gudrun Hofmeister Acknowledgements The Panel thanks the many charities, private foundations, community foundations, corporate funders, and individuals that have provided support for our work since its inception in 2004. A complete list of funders is available on our website at www.nonprofitpanel.org. Publication and dissemination of this report was made possible through the generous support of The Ford Foundation, the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, and the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation. We also extend our sincere appreciation to Celia Roady, Partner, Morgan, Lewis & Bockius, LLP, and Marion Fremont-Smith, Senior Research Fellow, Hauser Center for Nonprofit Organizations, Kennedy School of Government, Harvard University, for the countless hours they contributed in reviewing documents that led to the publication of this volume. Finally, we thank all of the organizations that provided comments on these principles and all of the Panel's work through our website, our town hall meetings, and other communications. For Further Information The reference edition of the Principles for Good Governance and Ethical Practice is available for free download at www.nonprofitpanel.org. It provides legal background on each principle with detailed footnotes, a glossary of terms, and additional information on self-regulation in the nonprofit community, including the two studies commissioned by the Panel to inform this work. Independent Sector, which provided leadership in convening and supporting the Panel on the Nonprofit Sector, will continue to offer resources through its programs and website (www.independentsector.org) to facilitate putting these principles into practice. 28 PRINCIPLES FOR GOOD GOVERNANCE AND ETHICAL PRACTICE Advisory Committee on Self-Regulation of the Charitable Sector CO-CHAIR Washington, DC Joel L. Fleishman, Director, Samuel and Ronnie Richard Klarberg, President and CEO, Council Heyman Center for Ethics, Public Policy and on Accreditation, New York, NY the Professions, Terry Sanford Institute of Public Colin Lacon, President and CEO, Northern Policy, Duke University, Durham, NC California Grantmakers, San Francisco, CA Rebecca W. Rimel, President & Chief Executive Carol Larson, President and CEO, David and Officer, Pew Charitable Trusts, Philadelphia, PA Lucile Packard Foundation, Los Altos, CA Richard Legon, President, Association of MEMBERS Governing Boards of Universities and Colleges, Stephen M. Ahnen, Senior Vice President, Washington, DC American Hospital Association, Washington, Jennifer Leonard, President and Executive DC Director, Rochester Area Community Willard Boyd, Professor of Law and President Foundation, Rochester, NY Emeritus, College of Law, University of Iowa, William L. Minnix, Jr., President and Chief Iowa City, IA Executive Officer, American Association of J. Todd Chasteen, Vice President of Homes and Services for the Aging, Washington, Administration, Human Resources and General DC Counsel, Samaritan's Purse, Boone, NC David Ormstedt, Counsel, Wiggin and Dana LLP, Harvey Dale, Director, National Center on Hartford, CT Philanthropy & the Law, and University Michael Piraino, Chief Executive Officer, National Professor of Philanthropy and Law, New York CASA, Seattle, WA University School of Law, New York, NY Mark Sidel, Professor of Law, University of Iowa, Charles M. Elson, Director, John L. Weinberg Iowa City, IA Center for Corporate Governance, University of Bruce Sievers, Visiting Scholar and Lecturer, Delaware, Newark, DE Stanford University, Stanford, CA Virginia Esposito, President, The National Center Rev. Larry Snyder, President, Catholic Charities for Family Philanthropy, Washington, DC USA, Alexandria, VA Marion R. Fremont-Smith, Senior Research Sterling Speirn, President and CEO, W.K. Kellogg Fellow, Hauser Center for Nonprofit Foundation, Battle Creek, MI Organizations, Kennedy School of Government, Eugene R. Tempel, Executive Director, Center Harvard University, Cambridge, MA on Philanthropy at Indiana University, Janne Gallagher, Vice President and General Indianapolis, IN Counsel, Council on Foundations, Washington, David Ward, President, American Council on DC Education , Washington, DC Merrill Gappmayer, Chairman of the Board, David L. Warren, President, National Association Intermountain Health Care, Salt Lake City, UT of Independent Colleges and Universities, Joyce Godwin, Chair, Board Governance Washington, DC Committee, Presbyterian Health Care Services, Michael D. Weekes, President and CEO, Albuquerque, NM Massachusetts Council of Human Service Donald Haider, Professor, Management and Providers, Boston, MA Strategy, Kellogg School of Management, Myrl Weinberg, President, National Health Northwestern University, Evanston, IL Council, Washington, DC Scott Harshbarger, Senior Counsel, Proskauer Rand Wentworth, President, Land Trust Alliance, Rose LLP , Boston, MA Washington, DC Sister Carol Keehan, President and CEO, Catholic Health Association of the United States, 1200 Eighteenth Street, NW Suite 200 Washington, DC 20036 www.nonprofitpanel.org www.independentsector.org 202-467-6100 202-467-6101 fax