How can we ensure our nonprofit operates ethically?

Summary:

While no one can guarantee that every organization will always be highly ethical, there are certain measures to take that guide toward ethical behaviors.

There are 33 "Principles of Good Governance and Ethical Practice" for charities and foundations in the Guide of the same name published in 2007 by The Panel on the Nonprofit Sector (a project of Independent Sector). To download a free .pdf file of the Guide, visit http://www.nonprofitpanel.org

The Free Management Library provides a free, on-line 'Guide to Ethics Management: An Ethics Toolkit for Managers'. The guide explains:
- how to set up an ethics management program
- roles and responsibilities in the program
- how to develop a code of ethics and a code of conduct
- how to recognize and address ethical dilemmas
- and how to train employees about the ethics management system.
See http://www.mapnp.org/library/ethics/ethics.htm

The ePhilanthropy Code of Ethics focuses on practices related to online fundraising; it is available online at
http://www.fundraising123.org/article/ephilanthropy-code-ethics