1. Purpose of the Policy

This Fundraising Policy exists to ensure that all fundraising activities conducted through or in connection with the UHC website are ethical, transparent, compliant with applicable laws, and aligned with our mission to expand access to universal health coverage. The policy guides staff, volunteers, partners, and contractors involved in fundraising efforts.

2. Guiding Principles

• Mission Alignment: All fundraising activities must support and advance the organization’s charitable purpose and strategic goals.
• Integrity & Transparency: Communications and solicitations shall be accurate, truthful, and not misleading.
• Respect for Donors: Donor intent must be honored, personal information protected, and acknowledgment provided in a timely way.
• Legal Compliance: All fundraising operations must follow nonprofit regulations, charitable solicitation laws, tax requirements, and data privacy laws (such as GDPR/CCPA if applicable).
• Inclusivity & Accessibility: Fundraising content should be accessible to all website users, without discrimination.

3. Scope of Fundraising Activities

This policy covers all fundraising initiatives conducted via the UHC website, including but not limited to:

• Online donations
• Recurring giving programs
• Crowdfunding campaigns
• Email and social media fundraising are linked to the website
• Peer-to-peer fundraising pages
• Merchandise sales or fee-for-service programs (when charitable in nature)
• Sponsorships and corporate partnerships are promoted on the site

4. Solicitation Standards

• All fundraising messages must clearly identify the nonprofit’s name, mission, and how funds will be used.
• The website must provide audited financial information or annual reports on request or via a posted transparency page.
• Photos, testimonials, and stories must accurately represent the individuals and programs featured and must be used with proper consent.
• Pressure tactics, emotional manipulation, or misleading claims are prohibited.

5. Donor Rights

The nonprofit affirms the following donor rights:

• To receive a tax-compliant donation receipt.
• To remain anonymous if desired, except where disclosure is required by law.
• To access information about how donations are used.
• To have their personal data protected and never sold, rented, or shared without permission.
• To have their preferences regarding communication frequency honored.

6. Data Privacy & Security

• All online donations must be processed through a secure, PCI-compliant payment processor.
• Personal information collected through fundraising activities will be stored securely and used only for organizational purposes.
• The UHC website must have an up-to-date privacy policy detailing what data is collected, how it is used, and how donors can request changes or removal.

7. Gift Acceptance

The organization reserves the right to decline gifts that:

• Are inconsistent with the mission or values
• Would create a conflict of interest
• Have restrictions that the organization cannot reasonably meet
• Come from sources that contradict ethical or reputational standards

A Gift Acceptance Committee or designated staff member may evaluate complex gifts such as real property, securities, or bequests.

8. Use of Funds

• All funds raised must be used for charitable purposes approved by the Board of Directors.
• Restricted gifts must be tracked and used only for their designated purpose.
• Unrestricted gifts may support overall operations, programs, and organizational capacity.

9. Compliance With Financial Regulations

• The organization will maintain accurate financial records and comply with IRS/state charitable reporting requirements.
• Fundraising materials must avoid statements that imply a guaranteed outcome for donors or beneficiaries.

10. Third-Party Fundraising

Any contractor, volunteer, influencer, or partner conducting fundraising on behalf of the organization must:

• Receive prior written approval
• Follow all aspects of this policy
• Use messaging that has been reviewed and approved by staff

Unauthorized fundraising using the UHC name or website branding is strictly prohibited.

11. Stewardship & Accountability

• Donors will receive timely acknowledgment, including receipts for tax purposes.
• Impact reports and outcomes will be shared with donors at least annually.
• The organization will regularly evaluate fundraising strategies for effectiveness and ethics.

12. Review & Updates

This policy will be reviewed annually by the Board of Directors or Fundraising Committee and updated as needed to reflect changes in law, technology, or organizational priorities.