In 1993, a consortium of philanthropic organizations came up with the Donor Bill of Rights to guide not-for-profits in their interactions with financial supporters. For the most part, the basic principles remain valid. But over the past quarter century, some in the nonprofit and donor communities have suggested amendments and additional “rights.” If you aren’t already familiar with the Bill, it’s a good idea to review it and recent updates while thinking about ways you might improve your organization’s relationship with donors.
Bill of Rights
The original list states that donors have these 10 rights:
List update
Obviously, a lot has changed since 1993. Notably, web-based and digital communications have largely replaced traditional methods of getting the word out. And new technologies, including mobile devices and apps, have changed how many supporters donate. The 2019 eDonor Bill of Rights, assembled by the Association of Fundraising Professionals, addresses this new world.
Among the additions to the original list are technology-specific items. For example, nonprofits are advised to provide secure donation methods that protect personal information and to enable supporters to opt out of data lists and email solicitations. Charities are also encouraged to provide donors with communication channels other than email and web-based apps.
One item that isn’t technology-related is an increasingly important obligation that nonprofits have to donors: To inform them that “a contribution entitles the donor to a tax deduction, and of all limits on such deduction based on applicable laws.” You can read the entire amended Bill at afpglobal.org/principles-edonor-bill-rights.
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Cordia Partners works closely with nonprofit organization to advise them on best practices to record contributions and to manage their accounting operations. Doing so will provide financial transparency, real-time financial reporting, and prepare nonprofits for successful audits. If you are looking for an accounting partner to advise on accounting operations, help with accounting technology upgrades or prepare your organization for audit, contact Cordia now.
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