February 23, 2012

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File a Complaint

Ethics query

  • A query is a means for inquiring whether or not a practice warrants filing a complaint alleging a violation of the Code and to request assistance from the Committee to resolve an issue or practice of concern.
  • The goal of a query is to bring about improvement in professional practice without resorting to formal Code enforcement proceedings.
  • A query may be submitted via a confidential letter or memorandum to the office of the AFP President and CEO.

Complaint

  • A complaint is a formal allegation of violation of the AFP Code of Ethical Principles and Standards.
  • Formal complaints must be made on the complaint form and signed.
  • The filing of a complaint initiates the Code’s enforcement procedure.
  • AFP requires complaining parties to agree that, upon request of the Ethics Committee, the complainant will give personal testimony in the presence of the accused.
  • If the Ethics Committee finds that a complaint is supported by sufficient documentation, written notification is issued to the accused. The accused is given the opportunity to respond in writing to the complaint.

How to register a query about a possible code violation:

  • Write a letter explaining the concern; include identification of the AFP member involved.
  • Send signed query and a copy of any backup information corroborating your concern in a sealed envelope marked CONFIDENTIAL to: President and CEO; Association of Fundraising Professionals; 4300 Wilson Blvd., Suite 300; Arlington, VA 22203-4168

How to file a complaint alleging a code violation

  • The complaint must be filed within three years of the alleged ethical misconduct.
  • The form may be downloaded this is a .pdf document requiring Adobe Acrobat Reader. Forms also may be requested by telephone, fax, email or mail from the office of the President and CEO.
  • Fill out the complaint form completely and sign it. Be sure that the description of alleged unethical conduct is clear and complete.
  • Send the signed form and a copy of any backdrop information corroborating your allegation in a sealed envelope marked CONFIDENTIAL to: President and CEO; Association of Fundraising Professionals; 4300 Wilson Blvd., Suite 300; Arlington, VA 22203-4168.

Click here to download the complaint form

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