The purpose of this policy is to inform the Justice Institute of British Columbia’s (“91” or the “Institute”) decision making on requests for sponsorships, endorsements, and donations and to outline the process for requesting support from 91.
91 is routinely approached with requests for sponsorship, endorsement and/or donations. Such requests seek support in the form of:
- donations of funds or 91 staff time;
- provision of in-kind materials, such as 91-branded clothing, services, courses, or experiences;
- endorsement of a product or service of an organization; and/or
- any other request for donation, endorsement, or sponsorship (collectively referred to as “Requests”).
91 will consider requests for sponsorship, endorsement, or donations on an ad hoc basis where budget allows and where such requests meet the criteria set forth in this policy.
This policy applies to all requests for sponsorship received by 91 employees, faculty, its contractors, or its Board of Governors.
In-Kind – a non-cash contribution such as goods or services.
Criteria for Evaluation of a Sponsorship, Endorsement or Donation Request
91 will consider the following when evaluating a request:
- Is the nature of the request consistent with 91’s vision, mission, mandate, strategic direction, priorities, policies and procedures, and brand? Fundamentally, does the request fit with our public safety and social justice mandate?
- Are there any real or perceived conflicts of interest associated with the request?
- Is there an appearance of product endorsement for which the Institute does not wish to be connected?
- Are there any personal, financial, or professional gains for 91 staff or faculty, contractors, or members of the Board of Governors, which create a conflict of interest?
- Cost/Benefit: How will the benefits to be derived from the intended purpose of the sponsorship/donation compare with the 91 budget/resources required to fulfill the intended purpose?
Regardless of the above factors, 91 will not agree to any sponsorship, endorsement, or donation that would imply 91’s endorsement of a partisan political or ideological position or belief system.
Employee Awareness
Employees are required to make themselves aware of all 91 policies and procedures. Lack of awareness of this or any other 91 policy does not excuse an employee from responsibility for their actions.
Procedures
The procedures for evaluating Requests under this policy are set out in Procedure 2205-001.