Donation Policy

Last updated: December 2024

Our Commitment to Donors

Hope Foundation is committed to responsible stewardship of all donations. We value the trust our donors place in us and are dedicated to transparency and accountability in how we use contributed funds.

Types of Donations Accepted

Monetary Donations

  • One-time donations: Single contributions of any amount
  • Recurring donations: Monthly or annual automatic contributions
  • Major gifts: Significant contributions requiring special acknowledgment
  • Planned giving: Bequests, trusts, and estate gifts

In-Kind Donations

We accept in-kind donations of:

  • Educational materials and supplies
  • Medical equipment and supplies
  • Professional services
  • Other items relevant to our programs

Please contact us before making in-kind donations to ensure they align with our current needs.

How Donations Are Used

Program Allocation

We strive to allocate donations as follows:

  • 80% to program services and direct community impact
  • 15% to administrative costs
  • 5% to fundraising activities

Designated vs. Undesignated Donations

  • Designated donations: Contributions specified for particular programs or projects will be used for those purposes
  • Undesignated donations: General donations will be allocated where they are most needed

Excess Funds

If a designated program receives more donations than needed, excess funds will be used for similar programs or as directed by the donor.

Tax Receipts and Deductibility

Tax Receipt Issuance

Hope Foundation is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Donations are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law.

  • Tax receipts are issued for all donations of $20 or more
  • Receipts are sent via email within 48 hours of donation
  • Annual summary statements are provided for recurring donors

Non-Deductible Portions

If you receive goods or services in exchange for your donation (such as event tickets), only the amount exceeding the fair market value is tax-deductible.

Donor Recognition

Recognition Levels

  • Friend: $1 - $99
  • Supporter: $100 - $499
  • Patron: $500 - $999
  • Benefactor: $1,000 - $4,999
  • Champion: $5,000+

Anonymous Donations

Donors may choose to remain anonymous. We will honor all requests for anonymity in our public recognition.

Donor Rights

As a donor, you have the right to:

  • Know how your donation will be used
  • Receive appropriate acknowledgment and recognition
  • Access our financial statements and annual reports
  • Be assured your gift will be used for the purpose for which it was given
  • Receive appropriate tax documentation
  • Be informed of the organization's mission and programs
  • Expect confidentiality and respect
  • Be informed if your donation is being solicited by a third party

Donor Privacy

We do not sell, trade, or share donor information with third parties. Your personal information is kept confidential and secure. See our Privacy Policy for more details.

Declined Donations

Hope Foundation reserves the right to decline donations that:

  • Come from questionable or illegal sources
  • Have conditions that conflict with our mission or values
  • Would create undue administrative burden
  • Pose reputational risk to the organization

Corporate and Foundation Grants

We welcome partnerships with corporations and foundations. Grant proposals should be submitted to grants@hopefoundation.org with:

  • Organization overview and mission alignment
  • Proposed project description and budget
  • Expected outcomes and impact metrics
  • Reporting and recognition requirements

Matching Gifts

Many employers match charitable donations made by their employees. Check with your HR department to see if your company has a matching gift program.

Transparency and Accountability

We are committed to transparency through:

  • Annual financial audits by independent auditors
  • Public disclosure of Form 990
  • Regular impact reports and program updates
  • Board oversight and governance

Contact Information

For questions about donations:

  • Email: donations@hopefoundation.org
  • Phone: +1 (555) 123-4567
  • Address: 123 Hope Street, Community City, ST 12345