10 Simple Ways to Protect Your Career From Ethical Slip-Ups

7. Keep restricted funds separate from unrestricted ones.

This is all about donor intent again. Organizations in financial need sometimes are tempted to “borrow” restricted donor funds and use them for general operating or other purposes. Fundraisers have an obligation to ensure that donated funds are used for the donor’s intended purposes. It is in the interest of the organization — and, indeed, the voluntary sector — to do so. This means, if necessary, standing up to organization leaders and fiscal officers to ensure that donated funds are properly recorded and accounted for.