The AAPC Board of Directors has adopted the following guidelines to provide essential principles and ethical standards for individuals and organizations engaged in digital fundraising activities through email, social media, and phones (texting). Given the explosive growth and importance of these channels, these guidelines outline best practices, transparency, and accountability, ensuring political fundraisers maintain integrity while raising funds for various campaigns and causes. Adhering to these standards fosters trust and credibility within the donor community and is expected of all AAPC members.
Transparency and Integrity
- Members shall not engage in activities that harm their clients or the overall profession.
- Members shall act with honesty, integrity, and transparency.
- Members should ensure that third-party organizations appointed on behalf of their organization meet the highest standards.
- Members should be accountable for the outcomes of their fundraising efforts, regularly reporting results and progress to clients and stakeholders. Transparency should extend to the allocation of funds, budgeting, and financial management.
- Members should strive to maintain a high level of professional competence by staying informed about the latest industry trends, best practices, and technological advancements
- Members should foster a culture of continuous improvement, seeking feedback from clients, donors, and other stakeholders to identify areas for enhancement and adapt their strategies accordingly.
Compliance with Laws and Regulations
- Members shall comply and stay up-to-date with all applicable local, state, and federal laws and regulations.
- Members shall ensure proper recordkeeping for clients for campaign finance reporting.
Data Protection and Privacy
9. Members shall handle donor data with the utmost care and compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
i. Members shall use their best efforts to safeguard against data breaches and ensure the security of donor information, including name, address, credit card information, and other personally identifiable information (PII).