Philanthropy is based on voluntary action for the common good. Our donors combine their love of Mary with their commitment to philanthropy.
It is a tradition of giving and sharing that is primary to the quality of life. To assure that philanthropy merits the respect and trust of the public, and that donors and prospective donors can have full confidence in the not-for-profit organizations and causes they are asked to support, we declare that all The National Shrine of Mary, Mother of the Church donors have these rights:
- To be informed of the organization’s mission, the way the organization intends to use donated resources, and its capacity to use donations effectively for their intended purposes.
- To be informed of the identity of those serving on the organization’s governing board, and to expect the board to exercise prudent judgment in its stewardship responsibilities.
- To have access to the organization’s published financial statements.
- To be assured their gifts will be used for the purposes for which they were given.
- To receive appropriate acknowledgment and recognition.
- To be assured that information about their donation is handled with respect and with confidentiality to the extent provided by law.
- To expect that all relationships with individuals representing The National Shrine of Mary, Mother of The Church will be professional in nature.
- To be informed whether those seeking donations are volunteers, employees of The National Shrine of Mary, Mother of the Church or hired solicitors.
- To be assured that The National Shrine of Mary, Mother of the Church will not share, sell, or release membership and mailing lists to non-members or to non-member organizations.
- To feel free to ask questions when donating and to receive prompt, truthful and forthright answers