Certified Nonprofit Professional Practice Exam

What should board members avoid when seeking funding?

1. Discussing potential conflicts of interest

2. Ignoring donor intentions

3. Being transparent with the community

4. Seeking input from stakeholders

The correct answer is: Ignoring donor intentions

When seeking funding, board members should be particularly cautious about ignoring donor intentions because understanding and respecting the desires of current and potential donors is crucial for maintaining trust and long-term support for the organization. If an organization fails to honor the preferences and intentions of its donors, it risks damaging relationships and could potentially alienate individuals or groups that are essential to its financial sustainability. Donor intentions encompass how they wish their contributions to be utilized, the types of programs they are passionate about, or any specific conditions they may attach to their giving. By neglecting these intentions, board members not only risk the loss of current funding, but they may also deter potential donors who are looking for organizations that value their contributions and uphold their wishes. Maintaining alignment with donor expectations is key to fostering lasting partnerships that benefit both the nonprofit and its supporters.