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Accountability + Business Ethics + Conflicts of Interest + Ethics + Ethics of Wealth + Fundraising Ethics + Professional Ethics

[Tutorial]

Professional Fundraiser as a Catalyst for Philanthropy

2
Average: 2 (2 votes)
By Linda Lysakowski, ACFRE
CAPITAL VENTURE CEO/President

Powerpoint presentation.  Read more



[Tool]

Sample Bylaw Provision: Conflicts of Interest

Courtesy of the Hurwit & Associates' Nonprofit Law Resource Library

Conflicts of Interest (Version A)
Whenever a director or officer has a financial or personal interest in any matter coming before the board of directors, the affected person shall a) fully disclose the nature of the interest and b) withdraw from discussion, lobbying, and voting on the matter. Any transaction or vote involving a potential conflict of interest shall be approved only when a majority of disinterested directors determine that it is in the best interest of the corporation to do so. The minutes of meetings at which such votes are taken shall record such disclosure, abstention and rationale for approval.  Read more



[Private Vault Tool]


Sample Conflict of Interest Policy & Disclosure Statement

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Sample Conflict of Interest Policy, Annual Affirmation of Compliance & Disclosure Statement

A sample conflict of interest form to use for your board members.  Read more


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[Tool]

Sample University Donor Recognition Policy

Courtesy of the University of Newcastle, Australia

Introduction
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the importance of recognizing the support provided by its many supporters and benefactors.  Read more



[Recommended Book]

Sarbanes-Oxley for Nonprofits: A Guide to Building Competitive Advantage

1
Average: 1 (3 votes)
By Peggy M. Jackson, DPA, CPCU & Toni E. Fogarty, Ph.D., MPH
Publisher's Description:
 

A complete guide to leveraging the power of Sarbanes-Oxley — specifically for nonprofits.

The first book to discuss the implications of Sarbanes-Oxley legislation as it relates to nonprofit organizations, Sarbanes-Oxley for Nonprofits is an essential guide for all nonprofit executives and boards who want to know how the new legislation can enhance their organization's mission.

By establishing a "platinum standard" of operations and governance within nonprofit organizations, executives and board members will be better equipped to attract high-quality staff and board members, as well as the attention of donors and other potential funding sources. Sarbanes-Oxley for Nonprofits presents the best practices that have emerged from the Public Company Accounting Reform and Investor Protection Act (Sarbanes-Oxley) in a manner that explains their source and value to the nonprofit organization.  Read more



[Tutorial]

Strategy for Ethical Decision-Making

2.333335
Average: 2.3 (3 votes)
By Linda Lysakowski, ACFRE
CAPITAL VENTURE CEO/President

  1. Clarify the problem.
    • Clarify and frame the problem to determine precisely what must be decided.

  2. Formulate viable alternatives.
    • Formulate and devise a full range of alternatives (i.e., the things you could do).
    • Eliminate patently impractical and improper alternatives.
    3.   Read more



[Tutorial]

The Redesign Form 990: Advising Nonprofit Organizations

3
Average: 3 (6 votes)
By Bonnie M. Wyllie, Esq., LL.M.
Vice-President, LaPort Sehrt Romig Hand Tax Consulting Services
Previously published in the March 2009 issue of the "Journal of Accountancy"

Most nonprofit organizations are now reviewing their first redesigned IRS Form 990 and its many new information requirements designed to enhance transparency and accountability. CPAs with nonprofit clients now are seeing the pieces fit together with satisfaction or, if drawing together the information has been difficult, perhaps with some concern. Many small organizations may be in need of some quick pointers and suddenly need your help. The new form, unveiled in late 2007, must be used for tax years beginning in 2008 by nonprofit organizations required to file Form 990, Return of Organization Exempt from Income Tax.  Read more



[Tutorial]

Time, Talent & Treasure: How You Can Use Yours Wisely to Help Charity

3
Average: 3 (2 votes)
By Linda Lysakowski, ACFRE
CAPITAL VENTURE CEO/President
Originally published in the "Morning Call"

In the aftermath of a year that has shown the world the very best and, at times, the worst face of philanthropy, our country is more aware than ever of financial abuse, misuse and fraud on the part of charities and nonprofit organizations. Many people are more reluctant than ever to donate time, talent and treasure to the many nonprofit organizations that truly need and deserve help. It becomes increasingly difficult for donors and volunteers to decide which organizations deserve their support and which ones will use their gifts wisely.

How does the thoughtful donor select from among the many charities that ask for money? How does one decide which organizations deserve and need their money and their time? By what criteria can a person judge if their money is being used wisely?  Read more



[Tip Sheet]

Transparency Tips

Your rating: None Average: 2 (2 votes)

One of the hottest buzzwords in philanthropy these days is, “transparency.” Assuring that your organization meets the highest ethical standards and that the public is fully aware of your organization policies, and financial status is critical in today’s world. Here are some hints on creating a transparent organization:  Read more



[Tutorial]

What Are the Basic Responsibilities of Nonprofit Boards?

2
Average: 2 (1 vote)
By Linda Lysakowski, ACFRE
CAPITAL VENTURE CEO/President


What Are the Basic Responsibilities of Nonprofit Boards?


  1. Determine the Organization's Mission and Purpose
    • A statement of mission and purposes should articulate the organization's goals, means, and primary constituents served. It is the board of directors' responsibility to create the mission statement and review it periodically for accuracy and validity. Each individual board member should fully understand and support it. (Goals and purpose can be reviewed but Mission does not change.)


  2. Select the Executive
    • Boards must reach consensus on the Executive Director's job description and undertake a careful search process to find the most qualified individual for the position.
    3.   Read more



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