Sheila Virgil (VP of Development and Donor Services, The Winston-Salem Foundation

Steve Virgil, Professor, Wake Forest University School of Law

"Trick or Truth: Is it Wrong? Illegal? or Both?" is a captivating presentation about the intersection of fundraising ethics and the law. We will explore the intricacies of fundraising ethics, including the fine line between actions that are morally questionable, legally problematic, or both.

Registered participants are encouraged to submit their ethical dilemmas via an anonymous survey that will be sent before the session. There will be an opportunity for questions to be submitted at the meeting; however, questions posed in advance are more likely to be answered in full.

Through engaging case studies and expert insights, attendees will gain a deeper understanding of the ethical challenges in fundraising and learn how to navigate the complex landscape to ensure their practices align with both moral principles and legal regulations, ultimately safeguarding their organization's reputation and mission. Join us on this journey to ensure that your fundraising practices are a treat, not a trick, for your donors and stakeholders.

The field of ethics itself includes demonstrating respect and empathy for all, as well as practicing and encouraging transparent communications in all interactions, two of AFP’s Global IDEA Principles. We will foster an inclusive environment throughout the presentation, and encourage participation and open dialogue from all attendees. We aim to not only educate attendees on fundraising ethics, but also to demonstrate how ethical fundraising practices can support and uphold these vital principles, fostering a more inclusive, diverse, equitable, and accessible fundraising community.

Participants will:

• Understand the Importance of Ethical Fundraising Practices
• Become able to articulate the significance of ethical fundraising practices, recognizing how they impact donor trust, organizational reputation, and long-term sustainability.
• Identify Ethical Dilemmas in Fundraising

Participants will develop the ability to recognize and assess common ethical dilemmas in fundraising, such as conflicts of interest, transparency issues, and donor relations challenges, enabling them to proactively address these concerns in their roles.