Preserving Anonymity and Donor Trust

To the Editor:

I was disappointed in the speculative nature of Julia Green’s June 10 article “Is N.Y. Mayor Anonymous Carnegie Donor?”

As a development officer, it is my responsibility on behalf of the nonprofit I serve to protect the interests and rights of donors. To remain anonymous is one of their rights.

Ms. Green treads in stormy water with her public speculation, which is unacceptable behavior in the Association of Fundraising Professionals’ Code of Ethical Principles and Standards of Professional Practice and the Donor Bill of Rights. Maintaining and adhering to ethical standards and principles are the foundation for maintaining public trust.

I encourage all writers associated with the nonprofit community, and their publishers, to read the code and to act in both the spirit and letter of the code’s intent. The type of speculation demonstrated by Ms. Green feeds distrust among donors of our nonprofit organizations. You have done both donors and nonprofits a tremendous disservice with your indiscretion.

Les Helmuth
Director of Development
Eastern Mennonite High School
Harrisonburg, Va.