Strong Ethics Policy Creates a Culture of Transparency

Almost daily, we are faced with making ethical decisions in our personal and professional lives. This is particularly true for those of us who work at foundations. Foundation board members and staff are often subject to intense pressure to provide funds for particular organizations. Board members of nonprofits are frequently expected to solicit funds from various foundations as part of their board responsibility, while at the same time holding governance positions on foundation boards. How can foundation board and staff members ethically deal with these kinds of situations? A vigorous conflict and fairness policy can help grantmakers avoid engaging in behaviors that give even the appearance of conflict.