7-5 Gift Acceptance
The Foundation exists solely to fulfill its mission of support to endodontic research and education. These guidelines are intended to ensure that its philanthropic program remains free of any conflict of interest or influence and to provide information for prospective donors. The Board reserves the right to refuse a gift that does not enhance, ensure and promote the purpose of the AAE Foundation and its long-range financial viability.
All Contributions
Unrestricted, outright gifts of cash, check, credit card and publicly traded securities are acceptable and do not require any special approval. Routine gifts are accepted or administered through the Development Department. All other types of gifts require the review and approval of the Board of Directors. Gifts will only be accepted when there is a charitable intent on the part of the donor. The Foundation will not provide any special consideration outside its normal business activities in exchange for a contribution.
The Foundation is unable to accept gifts that are overly restrictive in purpose. The most desirable gifts are those with the least restrictions, as unrestricted funds allow the organization to address its most pressing needs.
Noncash gifts will be accepted only when it is expected that they can be converted into cash within a reasonable period of time.
Donors of property gifts of over $5,000, except for gifts of publicly traded stock, must obtain an appraisal by an independent third-party appraiser.
The following are issues that will be considered to determine whether a gift is acceptable:
- Core Values. Is the gift one that is consistent with the Foundation’s standards, principles, and core values?
- Compatibility of Cause. Will the gift unnecessarily challenge the organization’s ability to further its mission, goals, or objectives?
- Public Relations. Does the acceptance of the gift present the AAE in an unfavorable light? Does it appear that there may exist a conflict of interest between the donor and the organization?
- Motivation. Is there clear charitable intent and a commitment to the organization?
- Consistency. Will the acceptance of the gift be compatible and in agreement with other fundraising activities or gifts of the organization?
- Credibility. Are the circumstances surrounding the donor and the gift believable?
- Organizational Stability. If controversy develops, will it be significant enough to weaken the structure of the organization?
- Form of Gift. Will the nature of an in-kind contribution create problems, such as in advertising or sponsorship?
- Source of Gift. Who is the donor? Is the gift from an individual or a corporation? Does the donor represent a perceived conflict of interest, or might the donor’s objectives not fit with the mission of the organization?
- Precedent. Does the gift set a precedent? If so, is it one which would be desirable to replicate in the future?
Corporate Contributions
The Foundation will not endorse or provide testimonials for products and services. Corporate contributions must benefit the AAE Foundation directly. Corporate gifts may not be applied to an individual donor’s pledge. However, corporations may recognize or honor individual members with a pledge or gift. The following are some examples of various types of recognition:
- A gift or pledge in honor of a member or members
- A gift or pledge that matches a member’s gift or pledge
- A percentage of a sale
Members will be recognized under a company listing in the AAE Donor Honor Roll or other publications. The total amount of the corporate contribution will be listed next to the company name or a total may be listed for each honoree. For example:
ABC Company Member Appreciation Program $25,000
Dr. John Doe
Dr. Jane Doe
Dr. ABC
ABC Company Member appreciation Program
Dr. John Doe $10,000
Dr. Jane Doe $10,000
Dr. ABC $5,000