Maintaining an ethical philosophy of fundraising

Fundraising is not rocket science, but there are some core basics that everyone should follow, the most important of which is to maintain an ethical stance in all our activities.

As Hank Rosso, the grandfather of contemporary fundraising, wrote many years ago in Achieving Excellence in Fundraising:

"Fundraising is values-based; values must guide the process. Fundraising should never be undertaken simply to raise funds; it must serve the larger cause ... The call for accountability, the need to inspire trust, the leadership of volunteers, the involvement of donors in their philanthropy, and new approaches to philanthropy [are a] call for fundraisers to be reflective practioners who can center themselves with a philosophy of fundraising."

A good place to start aligning your activities with this "philosophy of fundraising" is to incorporate the Donor Bill of Rights in all your efforts. Approved by the Board, implemented by staff and volunteers, and posted on your website, these simple 10 points should become more than just words on paper. In return, donors and prospective donors will develop the needed confidence to make long-term investments in your good agency and good cause.