Published fundraising cost allocation, fee disclosure, and solicitation statement policy
This criterion assesses whether the organization has developed and publicly disclosed a comprehensive policy serving three objectives: (1) Donor-facing transparency (raf‘ al-jahālah), (2) SORP-consistent accounting and cost allocation, and (3) legally compliant solicitation statements and third-party fundraiser controls. It evaluates the organization's commitment to ethical fundraising by openly communicating how costs are calculated, allocated, and reported. The policy defines ‘fundraising costs’ (direct, third‑party/agency fees, payment processing, platform fees), explains gross vs net recognition, and sets channel‑specific disclosure rules. It clarifies that ‘pricing’ refers to ticket/entry fees and suggested donation amounts, ensuring no hidden surcharges or coercive fee coverage options are applied.
Ḥisbah
Accountability to ensure market practices align with Islamic ethics, preventing exploitation.
Amānah
Trust that demands honesty and transparency in all dealings, especially with donated funds.
Raf' al-Jahalah wa al-Gharar
The removal of ambiguity and uncertainty. A transparent fundraising cost policy removes ambiguity (gharar) for the donor.
Al-Muslimūn ‘alā shurūṭihim
Muslims are bound by their conditions. Donors and charities are bound by stated terms; therefore any fee deductions or ‘100%’ claims become binding commitments.
Al-ghunm bil-ghurm
Liability accompanies gain. One who benefits from a transaction bears its liabilities; reinforces clear allocation of fees/risks in third-party fundraising contracts.
Ḥuqūq al-‘ibād
Rights of people (donors) to clarity about deductions and fee structures.
Iḥsān
Excellence and perfection. Striving for excellence by proactively publishing policy, benchmarking it, and continuously improving it.
Discussion (1)
📋 **Version updated: 1.0.0 → 2.9.7** **Changes:** Updated islamic_references from mizan-297.json
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