Work Groups

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More than 100 nonprofit executives and other experts contributed their experience and knowledge to the Panel's five Work Groups. Though each group focused on a particular topic, all considered modifications to existing laws and practices, examined areas where self-regulation is more appropriate, and suggested where further research is needed.
Work Groups Governance and Fiduciary Responsibility
This group considered issues such as conflict of interest policies, fundraising, and board compensation, size, and composition. Its co-conveners were Ellen S. Alberding, president of The Joyce Foundation in Chicago and Deborah S. Hechinger, former president and CEO of BoardSource in Washington.
Work Groups Legal Framework
This group examined issues such as donor advised funds, investment rules, the prevention of self-dealing and other conflicts of interest, and tax regulations. Its co-conveners were Robert Boisture of the law firm of Caplin & Drysdale in Washington and LaVerne Woods of the Seattle firm of Davis Wright Tremaine LLP.
Work Groups Government Oversight and Self-Regulation
This group considered issues such as the enforcement of existing legal standards, improvements to those laws, and areas that are best enforced through self-regulation. Its co-conveners were John E. Marshall, III, former president and CEO of The Kresge Foundation in Michigan and Valerie S. Lies, president and CEO of the Donors Forum of Chicago.
Work Groups Small Organizations
This group considered issues of special concern to small nonprofits, including administrative expenses, board requirements, disclosure issues, financial audits and reporting, user fees, and supporting organizations. Its co-conveners were Audrey R. Alvarado, executive director of the National Council of Nonprofit Associations in Washington and David M. Nee, executive director of the William Caspar Graustein Memorial Fund in Connecticut.
Work Groups Transparency and Financial Accountability
This group considered issues such as the reform of Forms 990 and 990PF, audits and reviews, and electronic filing of tax returns. Its co-conveners were Michael Bailin, former president of The Edna McConnell Clark Foundation in New York, N.Y., and Walter D. Bristol Jr., former executive vice president of corporate operations and CFO, American Heart Association, Dallas.
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The Panel on the Nonprofit Sector is an independent effort by charities and foundations to ensure that the nonprofit community remains a vibrant and healthy part of American society.
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