Ethics and Compliance
Do the right thing the right way — and keep your nonprofit accountable.
For: Nonprofit staff and volunteers
What you’ll learn
- Tell the difference between ethics and compliance — and why you need both
- Recognize and disclose conflicts of interest, gifts, and self-dealing
- Apply a step-by-step ethical decision-making framework under pressure
- Protect confidential information and use organizational resources honestly
- Understand whistleblower protection and how to raise a concern safely
Screen your volunteers for $5
VolunteerBadge runs FCRA-compliant background checks for just $5 — with identity verification built in. No monthly fees, no contracts.
Create a free account →Course outline
- 1
Ethics vs. compliance — and why you need both
5 min
- 2
Your code of conduct
5 min
- 3
Conflicts of interest & self-dealing
6 min
- 4
Gifts, perks, confidentiality & resources
5 min
- 5
An ethical decision-making framework
6 min
- 6
Whistleblower protection: raising a concern safely
5 min
- 7
Building an ethical culture & common dilemmas
5 min
Sources & further reading
- Independent Sector — Principles for Good Governance and Ethical Practice (33 Principles)
- National Council of Nonprofits — Ethics and Accountability for Nonprofits
- National Council of Nonprofits — Conflicts of Interest
- Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability (ECFA) — Seven Standards of Responsible Stewardship
- Internal Revenue Service — Exempt Organizations Annual Reporting Requirements — Governance (Form 990, Part VI)
This course is educational and provides general information about the Fair Credit Reporting Act and volunteer-screening best practices. It is not legal advice. Laws vary by state and change over time — consult a qualified attorney about your organization’s specific obligations.