Introduction

Your Way Inc, is dedicated to supporting children and families through various programs and initiatives. Donations play a critical role in enabling us to fulfil our mission. This policy outlines the principles and procedures for the ethical and effective collection of donations to ensure transparency, accountability, and donor confidence.

Policy Statement

Your Way Inc, is committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity and transparency in all fundraising activities. We strive to ensure that all donations are solicited, received, and managed in a manner that is ethical, legal, and respectful of the donor’s intent and expectations.

This policy ensures that Your Way Inc, conducts its fundraising activities with integrity, transparency, and respect for our donors, thereby maintaining public trust and supporting our mission to help children and families.

Scope

This policy applies to all types of donations, including monetary contributions, in-kind gifts, sponsorships, and grants. It covers all fundraising activities conducted by Your Way Inc, including those carried out by employees, volunteers, partners, and third-party fundraisers.

Objectives

• To establish clear guidelines for the solicitation, receipt, acknowledgment, and management of donations.
• To ensure compliance with all relevant legal and regulatory requirements.
• To protect the privacy and preferences of donors.
• To foster a culture of transparency and accountability in fundraising activities.

Types of Donations

1. Monetary Donations:

1. • One-time Donations: Single contributions made by individuals, corporations, or foundations.
   • Recurring Donations: Regular contributions made on a monthly, quarterly, or annual basis.
   • Major Gifts: Significant one-time donations that often come with specific conditions or designations.

2. In-Kind Donations:

1. • Non-monetary contributions such as goods, services, or expertise.

3. Sponsorships and Grants:

1. • Financial support provided by corporations, foundations, or government agencies for specific projects or programs.

Donation Solicitation

1. Ethical Practices:

1. • All fundraising activities must be conducted in an ethical manner, respecting the dignity and privacy of potential donors.
   • Misleading or coercive solicitation practices are strictly prohibited.

2. Transparency:

1. • All solicitation materials must clearly state the purpose of the fundraising campaign, how the funds will be used, and any associated costs.

3. Authorization:

1. • All fundraising activities must be approved by the Executive Director or designated fundraising committee.
   • Third-party fundraisers must have a formal agreement with Your Way Inc. and adhere to this policy.

Acceptance of Donations

1. Evaluation:

1. • Donations will be reviewed to ensure they align with the mission, values, and needs of Your Way Inc.
   • The organization reserves the right to decline donations that are inconsistent with its objectives or that come with conditions that cannot be met.

2. Documentation:

1. • All donations must be properly documented, including the donor’s information, the amount or value of the donation, and any specific conditions or designations.

3. Legal Compliance:

1. • Donations must comply with all relevant legal and regulatory requirements, including anti-money laundering laws and tax regulations.

Donation Management

1. Acknowledgment:

1. • All donations will be acknowledged promptly with a thank-you letter or receipt, including the organization’s tax identification number and a statement of the donation’s tax-deductibility.
   • Major gifts and grants may be acknowledged through personalized correspondence, public recognition, or special events, subject to the donor’s preferences.

2. Use of Funds:

1. • Donations will be used for the purposes specified by the donor. If no specific purpose is indicated, funds will be used to support the general operations and programs of Your Way Inc.
   • Restricted funds will be tracked separately to ensure they are used in accordance with the donor’s wishes.

3. Reporting:

1. • Regular financial reports will be provided to the Board of Directors, detailing the sources and uses of donated funds.
   • Donors will receive updates on the impact of their contributions, as appropriate.

Donor Privacy and Rights

1. Confidentiality:

1. • Donor information will be kept confidential and will not be shared with third parties without the donor’s consent, except as required by law.

2. Respect for Donor Preferences:

1. • Donors have the right to remain anonymous if they choose.
   • Donors can request to be removed from mailing lists or to limit the frequency and types of communications received from Your Way Inc.

3. Donor Feedback and Complaints:

1. • Donors are encouraged to provide feedback or lodge complaints regarding fundraising activities. All concerns will be addressed promptly and professionally.

Review and Updates

This policy will be reviewed annually and updated as necessary to reflect changes in legislation, best practices, and organizational needs.