In the last few years the subject of Governance and Ethics has become the leading topic of discussion in the world of philanthropy, and rather than waning the discussion continues to intensify among institutional funders, individual donors and the Government.

As donors require higher standards and transparency from the charities they support, 'grassroots' organizations may have an advantage over larger institutions. Traditionally smaller organizations operate with very little 'fat' in their budgets, so if someone wanted to run off to a tropical island, you probably wouldn't find them at a small nonprofit.

As grassroots organizations make their case for support to donors they should highlight, along with their programs and the need in their community, the efficiency with which they carry out their mission. Directors can also make a personal pledge to uphold a strict ethics code in the handling of donations.

For more on the subject and language to use, check out http://www.IndependentSector.org/issues/accountability.html.