When a tech company from Silicon Valley wanted to give a $250,000 grant to an organization that helps reunite immigrant families separated at the US-Mexico border, the RAICES organization immediately rejected the donation. They did so because of the doner’s political ties to US Customs and Border Protection, criticized for its policies against immigrants.
Regardless of the political issues that affected the company’s decision, it is an excellent example for other charitable organizations. Nonprofits should consider how their donations affect their mission and goals before accepting them. Donations need to align with the organization’s values or goals to be beneficial.
When a donation goes against the organization’s core values, it should be considered a red flag.
Reputation is one of the most critical factors a charitable organization should consider when accepting donations. If a potential donor’s values go against the organization’s core principles, it could affect the trust that its supporters have in it.
Before accepting a certain type of donation or partnership, an organization should thoroughly consider the potential damage to its reputation caused by the donor’s values. Having clear and published guidelines on its core principles with help.
Good360, a product philanthropy firm, aims to find the right products at the right time to help people. Through our evaluation process, we aim to find the appropriate donations to send to the right people. They will refuse gifts that aren’t the right fit for disaster victims.
If a nonprofit receives an offer of a product or service that doesn’t meet your expectations, it might not fit your organization’s goals. In the worst cases, accommodating the request could cost you a lot of money and time.
Make sure your organization’s mission and goals are clear, as well as the issues you’re working on, before accepting donations. This information helps potential donors know if you’re the right fit for their giving programs.
The Donations Comes with Too Many Restrictions
Significant gifts can come with strings attached, and donors may ask for the funds for specific purposes or one location. While it’s important to keep donors happy, sometimes it’s necessary to say no thanks when these restrictions threaten the mission or values of the organization.
Saying No Opens Doors
When an organization says no to a gift because of a specific condition, it means saying yes to something better.
It can be difficult to decline a gift, but it’s also essential to consider the organization’s long-term goals and the community’s needs. Being selective about the types of donations you receive can help you achieve these goals.