1. Policy Commitment and Purpose
Spark 15 is committed to transparency, integrity, and accountability in managing all donations. This policy outlines the principles and procedures for accepting, administering, and utilizing monetary and in-kind contributions. This ensures all donations align with our core mission: empowering refugee youth through storytelling, education, integration, and community leadership.
2. Scope of Application
This policy applies to all forms of support (monetary and non-monetary) received by Spark 15 from individuals, businesses, foundations, and other entities. It governs:
- The process for receiving contributions.
- Criteria for acceptance and non-acceptance.
- Guidelines for the ethical use of donated resources.
- Procedures for transparent reporting and monitoring.
- The rights of donors and Spark 15’s corresponding obligations.
3. Criteria for Accepting Donations
Spark 15 will accept a donation provided that:
It is fully consistent with our mission (refugee empowerment, storytelling, education, integration) and core values.
The donor explicitly understands and accepts that Spark 15 will use the donation in furtherance of its charitable objectives and as defined by this policy.
The donation can be processed legally, ethically, and without creating an unreasonable administrative burden.
The contribution does not carry conditions that compromise Spark 15’s independence or mission.
4. Contributions We Cannot Accept
Spark 15 reserves the right to decline any donation if:
The specified use conflicts with our mission or organizational values (e.g., funding for discriminatory purposes, or exploitation of refugee narratives).
The contribution includes expectations or obligations that could compromise our integrity, governance, or independence.
The source of the funds is determined to be unlawful, unethical, or in contravention of human rights standards (e.g., linked to human trafficking, forced labor).
The donor demands a direct personal benefit that undermines the charitable nature of the work.
The donation is tied to political campaigning or partisan activity, unless explicitly permitted by our NGO status and relevant local law.
5. Management and Use of Funds
Charitable Use: All funds received will be dedicated exclusively to advancing Spark 15’s charitable aims (empowering refugee youth through storytelling, education, mental health support, and community integration).
Donor Intent: Spark 15 will endeavor to honor specific project designations (e.g., a specific workshop or program) made by the donor, provided the designation aligns with our overall mission and budget.
Transparency in Allocation: We ensure transparent allocation of administrative overheads and program costs, prioritizing that the majority of funds directly support core programs.
Record Keeping: Accurate and current records of all donations and expenditures will be meticulously maintained.
6. Accountability, Reporting, and Data Privacy
Receipts and Acknowledgement: Donors will receive a formal acknowledgement and receipt for their contribution.
Public Reporting: Annual summaries detailing funding sources, expenditure breakdown (programs vs. overheads), and impact outcomes will be publicly released.
Donor Rights: Donors have the right to request a meaningful report on how their funds were utilized.
Data Protection: We are committed to safeguarding donor data, respecting privacy, and fully complying with applicable data protection legislation.
7. Ensuring Independence and Ethical Integrity
Conflicts of Interest: Spark 15 strictly avoids relationships with donors that could jeopardize our independence, mission, or reputation.
Oversight for Significant Donations: Large or unusual donations will undergo a review by the Board of Directors (or a designated committee) to ensure due diligence and adherence to ethical standards.
Integrity Checks: Appropriate integrity and ethical checks on donors will be performed where deemed necessary.
8. Refunds and Dissolution
Inability to Use Funds: If a donation cannot be used for its intended purpose, and the donor does not agree to a suitable alternative, Spark 15 may issue a refund or transfer the funds to a related, mission-aligned program (with the donor’s explicit consent).
Organizational Dissolution: In the event of Spark 15’s dissolution, any remaining assets or funds will be transferred to another charitable organization with a consistent mission.
9. Policy Responsibilities
Implementation: The Executive Director (or appointed staff) is responsible for the day-to-day implementation of this Donation Policy.
Oversight: The Board of Directors holds responsibility for the policy’s oversight, review, approval, and the authorization of significant donations.
Compliance: All staff and volunteers interacting with donors must adhere strictly to this policy and Spark 15’s ethical standards.
10. Review and Maintenance
This Donation Policy will be subject to a formal review at least once per year, or sooner if necessitated by changes in law, regulation, or organizational circumstances.