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An association 'goes to bid' on some required professional services. The 'bid' is received from a client and friend of the president of the association. When compared to the existing service provider, there is a substantial cost savings, which on the surface sounds like a good thing. Under closer scrutiny, especially since the professional services are regulated by state government, it turns out that the cost savings are the result of a reduced scope of services by the new provider. Worse, the association collects on a claim with the existing service provider even after it knows it will not be continuing its contract. The members of the association are not fully informed of the details; they are told there is a new service provider who is offering more service for less money. Everybody seems happy, right? Wrong! The now-previous service provider has been used and dumped. The savvy association members have asked questions but they cannot get answers. The silent majority does not even know to ask questions. In the end, the association president has done business with a buddy, contracted for inferior services, and left the membership at a disadvantage. Yet another ethical dilemma has occurred in a routine, day-to-day, organizational decision-making process. Happy New Year HISTORY

As executive directors, you have no doubt read about such examples - in fact, you may have even had the misfortune of being involved in such a mishap. There is a common theme that I find very disturbing as we analyze these case studies: the decision maker would argue vigorously that he or she was doing the right thing! Unbelievable. But, unfortunately, very true. And, from my experience, I believe that those committing these unethical acts have deluded themselves into believing that they are correct. Do you see the criticality of focusing on the issue of ethics as we move forward?

In order to develop successful strategies for saving or growing your non-profit organization, I would suggest that you should be totally invested in the inward and outward demonstration of ethics. Only you can highlight the importance of ethics among your staff, board, customers, and contributors. Not only is it the right thing to do - and not only is it among the key problems facing our country today - but, a commitment and dedication to ethics can give you an honorable and well-deserved competitive advantage among your peers.