Ethical Fundraising Policy
Office of Displaced Designers [ODD] is committed to upholding transparency, integrity, and ethical standards in all aspects of our operations, including fundraising and donation acceptance. This policy outlines the guidelines and considerations that govern the acceptance of donations by our organisation.
Considerations when Deciding to Accept a Donation:
Alignment with Mission and Values:
Donations must align with the mission, vision, and values of ODD, as outlined in our governing documents.
We will assess whether accepting a donation advances our charitable purposes and objectives.
Legal and Regulatory Compliance:
All donations must comply with applicable laws and regulations, including those set forth by the Republic of Estonia. We also draw upon guidance from the UK Charity Commission and Fundraising Regulator.
We are required to conduct due diligence checks to ensure that donations are not associated with illegal activities, such as money laundering or terrorism financing.
Ethical Considerations:
Donations should be free from any conditions that may compromise our independence, impartiality, or integrity.
We will consider the reputation and ethical standing of the donor and any associated individuals or organisations.
Financial Viability:
Donations should contribute positively to the financial sustainability of our organisation.
We will assess the potential impact of accepting a donation on our resources, budget, and operational capacity.
Public Perception and Stakeholder Relations:
We will consider the potential impact of accepting a donation on our reputation and relationships with stakeholders, including donors, participants, partners, and the general public.
Donations that may generate controversy, conflict of interest, or public distrust will be carefully evaluated.
Transparency and Accountability:
We are committed to transparency in our fundraising practices and will disclose information about significant donations, including the source and purpose, as appropriate.
Donors may be required to provide information necessary for accountability and reporting purposes.
Restricted and Unrestricted Donations:
We accept both restricted and unrestricted donations. However, we reserve the right to decline donations that come with overly restrictive conditions that hinder our ability to fulfil our mission effectively.
Forms of Donation:
We may occasionally accept donations in kind if aligned with our goals and activities. These may include project materials, access to working space and accommodation, or other relevant services.
Thresholds:
Donations up to 1,000 Euros do not automatically require any due diligence check.
All donations between 1,001 Euros and 10,000 Euros will automatically be subjected to a standard due diligence check and risk assessment to determine whether an enhanced check is required.
Any donation above the 10,001 Euros threshold will automatically be subject to an enhanced due diligence check and risk assessment.
Donations made in support of specific causes or projects, depending on location and other risk factors, may require enhanced checks at lower thresholds.
These decisions are made at the discretion of the board of directors.
Documentation and Record-Keeping:
We will maintain accurate records of all donations received, including donor information, donation amounts, purposes, and any conditions attached.
Documentation will be retained per applicable legal and regulatory requirements.
Office of Displaced Designers reserves the right to decline or return donations that do not meet these considerations or are deemed to be inconsistent with our values, mission, or legal obligations. Decisions regarding donation acceptance will be made collectively by the directors, with the highest standards of integrity, accountability, and transparency, whilst protecting privacy.
This policy shall be reviewed periodically and updated to ensure its relevance and effectiveness.
Date of Adoption: [5th April 2024]
Next Review Date: [10th January 2025]
