What are the steps to create a fundraising code of conduct?

1 Assess your needs

The first step is to assess your current situation and identify the needs and expectations of your stakeholders. You can conduct a SWOT analysis (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats) to evaluate your fundraising performance, risks, and opportunities. You can also consult your donors, staff, board, volunteers, and beneficiaries to get their feedback and input on your fundraising practices and values.

2 Research best practices

The second step is to research the best practices and standards of fundraising ethics and professionalism in your sector and region. You can look for examples and resources from reputable organizations, associations, and networks that promote fundraising excellence and accountability. For instance, you can refer to the International Statement of Ethical Principles in Fundraising, the Code of Fundraising Practice by the Fundraising Regulator, or the AFP Code of Ethical Standards.

3 Draft your code

The third step is to draft your fundraising code of conduct based on your needs and research. You can use a simple and clear language that reflects your mission, vision, and values. You can also include specific sections or clauses that address the key aspects of your fundraising activities, such as donor relations, data protection, transparency, accountability, diversity, inclusion, and stewardship. You can use a template or a checklist to ensure that you cover all the relevant topics and issues.

4 Review and approve your code

The fourth step is to review and approve your fundraising code of conduct before you implement it. You can solicit feedback and suggestions from your stakeholders, especially your fundraisers, to ensure that your code is realistic, relevant, and fair. You can also seek legal advice or external validation to ensure that your code complies with the applicable laws and regulations. You can then finalize your code and get it approved by your board or senior management.

5 Communicate and train your staff

The fifth step is to communicate and train your staff on your fundraising code of conduct. You can disseminate your code to all your employees, volunteers, contractors, and partners who are involved in your fundraising activities. You can also provide them with training and guidance on how to apply and uphold your code in their daily work. You can use different methods and tools, such as workshops, webinars, manuals, quizzes, or case studies, to educate and engage your staff.

6 Monitor and evaluate your code

The sixth step is to monitor and evaluate your code of conduct on a regular basis. You can establish a system and a process to track and measure your compliance and performance against your code. You can also collect feedback and data from your stakeholders to assess the impact and effectiveness of your code. You can use indicators and tools, such as surveys, audits, reports, or complaints, to monitor and evaluate your code. You can then review and update your code as needed to ensure that it remains relevant and responsive to your changing needs and environment.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?