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Our Guiding Principles

Middlesex County Community Foundation
proudly adheres to these
Guiding Principles for Connecticut Grantmakers
Established and Promoted by the
Connecticut Council for Philanthropy

Guiding Principles

1. We act with honesty and integrity. We follow ethical practices in all aspects of our work and avoid conflicts of interest.
2. We honor the philanthropic mission of our organization and the intent of the donors who fund our grantmaking programs.
3. We value and affirm diversity in its many forms and endeavor to include the perspectives, opinions and experiences of the broadest possible cross-section of our communities to guide our work.
4. We are thoughtful and purposeful in our grantmaking, and periodically review and evaluate our mission, priorities, policies and practices.
5. We are accessible, communicate clearly and promptly with applicants, grantees, donors, peers and the public, and build constructive relationships based on mutual respect, candor and confidentiality.
6. We have an identifiable board, committee or other decision-making body that is responsible for the governance and oversight of the organization.
7. We provide appropriate, comprehensive and timely information on our work to the public, the media, government and all stakeholders.
8. We are aware of and fulfill our fiduciary and legal responsibilities.

Overview
Philanthropy plays a vital role as a partner with the public, private and nonprofit sectors to strengthen and enrich the quality of life for Connecticut residents. Foundations and corporate giving programs in Connecticut reflect a range of charitable interests to promote the public good. The Connecticut Council for Philanthropy respects the diversity of their philanthropic goals.

The Connecticut Council's Board of Directors offered these Guiding Principles and Effective Practices to its members and other Connecticut funders to articulate a shared commitment to excellence and to serve as a guide for Connecticut funders as we pursue our missions. Subscribers to these principles share a commitment to the public trust and adhere to the highest standard of ethical behavior in all aspects of our work.

The Middlesex County Community Foundation Board of Directors approved signing of these Guiding Principles on August 16, 2006.