Independent Sector / Accountability - Checklist for Accountability

Accountability

9. Remain Current with the Law

Accountability Checklist

Develop a Culture of Accountability and Transparency
Adopt a Statement of Values and Code of Ethics
Adopt a Conflict of Interest Policy
Ensure that the Board of Directors Understands and Can Fulfill Its Financial Responsibilities
Conduct Independent Financial Reviews, Particularly Audits
Ensure the Accuracy of and Make Public Your Organization’s Form 990
Be Transparent.
Establish and Support a Policy on Reporting Suspected Misconduct or Malfeasance (“Whistleblower Protection Policy”)
Remain Current with the Law

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Make sure that a board member, member of staff, consultant or volunteer is designated to keep up to date with the law. Ensure that your organization fully complies with all existing laws governing charitable organizations.

Resources:

The following publications and articles provide helpful insights on what it means to build a culture of accountability:

IRS website for charitable organizations offers information on disclosure law, links to offices regulating charities on the state level, and other resources.

Among the books that offer useful information on nonprofit law and regulation are:

Nonprofit Law Made Easy by Bruce R. Hopkins (John Wiley & Sons, 2005); and
Governing Nonprofit Organizations: Federal and State Law and Regulation by Marion R. Fremont-Smith (Published by Belknap Press, 2004).