code of ethics
Trust makes philanthropy possible. AFP builds this trust with an iron-clad commitment to ethical fundraising, set forth in the AFP Code of Ethics and the Donor Bill of Rights. AFP supports your work as a fundraiser as the only membership organization in the world to set the standards and create an enforceable code of ethics for fundraisers that increase how the donors´ value your organization, your professional leadership and their your philanthropic mission. Explore how the Code accomplishes this here.
Why Ethics Matter
We work in a trust economy where donors give away their dollars confident we will apply their gifts to our missions. But only 11% of Americans think nonprofits spend money wisely, a 10-15% drop compared to 2000.
As a new generation flexes its philanthropic muscle, we as professionals confront serious scrutiny and rising doubts about the nonprofit sector.
Ethical Leadership at AFP
Every year, AFP International´s 27,000 members sign the association´s Code of Ethics, which holds them to the profession´s highest standards and a commitment to put the philanthropic mission above personal gains. AFP members do not work just for their organization, they represent the philanthropic trust economy every day.
Donor Bill of Rights
AFP, along with several professional organizations, pioneered the Donor Bill of Rights and the e-Donor Bill of Rights, which outline the ethical practices donors can expect from the organizations they support. Many AFP members send the Donor Bill of Rights along with thank you letters to their donors and post the Code of Ethics in their workplace.
Additional Resources for AFP Members
For more information about fundraising ethics, visit AFP International´s Ethics page for access to white papers, online emerging issue discussions and FAQs on key questions such as why percentage-based compensation is unacceptable in our profession.
Enforcing the Ethics Code
Direct your questions or concerns in confidence to AFP´s national president or fill out the AFP complaint form found on the Enforcement Procedures page of the AFP International website. Complaints are forwarded to and investigated by the AFP Ethics Committee.
AFP Code of Ethics (long)
Download the full AFP Code of Ethical Principles and Standards of Professional Practice with guidelines.
AFP Code of Ethics(summary)
Download a summary of the AFP Code of Ethical Principles and Standards of Professional Practice.
Donor Bill of Rights
Download the AFP Donor Bill of Rights.
AFP International Ethics Center
Visit AFP´s ethics center for position papers and articles, online discussions of emerging issues, enforcement procedures and an ethics FAQ.
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