Doing Business As “The Baker Foundation”
Terms and Conditions for Contributions and Donations
1. Acceptance of Contributions
The Alonzo D. Baker Foundation (“The Baker Foundation”) accepts contributions, gifts, and grants at its sole discretion. Only donations consistent with the Foundation’s charitable, educational, scientific, and religious purposes—as described in Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code—will be accepted.
The Foundation may decline any contribution that: Conflicts with its mission or values; creates undue administrative or legal burden; or presents ethical or reputational risk.
2. Donor Responsibility
The Foundation does not provide legal, financial, or tax advice. All donors are encouraged to consult their own professional advisors regarding the tax implications of their gifts. No irrevocable gift (including life-income arrangements) will be accepted if such a gift could reasonably jeopardize the donor’s financial security.
3. Acceptable Forms of Gifts
The Foundation may accept contributions in the form of: Cash, check, or electronic transfer Credit or debit card donations publicly traded securities, in-kind goods or professional services (subject to review). Other assets, including real estate or non-publicly traded securities, upon Board review and approval. All gifts are reviewed for compliance with applicable laws, the Foundation’s mission, and the Internal Revenue Code.
4. Restricted and Unrestricted Gifts
The Foundation honors donors with intent for restricted gifts whenever possible. If the original restriction becomes impracticable, obsolete, or inconsistent with the Foundation’s mission, the Foundation reserves the right to redirect such funds toward a substantially similar charitable purpose, in accordance with applicable law.
5. Donor Acknowledgment and Privacy
All gifts will be acknowledged in compliance with IRS substantiation requirements. Except for gifts of cash or publicly traded securities, the Foundation will not assign monetary value to donated property in any receipt or acknowledgment.
The Foundation values donor privacy. Information about donors or their contributions is shared only with authorized staff or as required by law. Donors requesting anonymity will have their identities protected to the fullest extent permitted.
6. Ethical Standards and Prohibited Practices
The Foundation will not: Pay commissions, finder’s fees, or compensation to third parties for soliciting or securing gifts; permit any private inurement or benefit to trustees, officers, or private persons; Engage in self-dealing as defined under Section 4941(d) of the Internal Revenue Code; Retain excess business holdings under Section 4943(c); Make investments subject to tax under Section 4944; or make taxable expenditures under Section 4945. Reasonable compensation may be paid for services rendered, and necessary expenses may be reimbursed in the ordinary course of business.
7. Political and Legislative Activity
In compliance with federal law, the Foundation will not: Participate or intervene in any political campaign on behalf of, or in opposition to, any candidate for public office; Engage in substantial lobbying or propaganda; or publish or distribute statements attempting to influence legislation, except as permitted by law.
8. Use of Contributions
All contributions are used exclusively in furtherance of the Foundation’s charitable and educational mission, including mentorship, counseling, and educational programs; Community development and empowerment initiatives; Outreach and assistance for individuals and families identified as “in-need.” Funds are never used for private benefit or non-charitable purposes.
9. Financial Integrity and Compliance
The Foundation operates in full compliance with Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code and the laws of the State of Delaware.
No part of the Foundation’s net earnings shall inure to the benefit of, or be distributable to, any trustee, officer, member, or private person—except for reasonable compensation for services rendered in furtherance of its charitable purposes.
10. Dissolution and Asset Distribution
Upon dissolution, the Foundation’s assets shall be distributed: Exclusively for one or more exempt purposes within the meaning of Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code; or to the federal, state, or local government for a public purpose. Any remaining assets not so distributed shall be disposed of by a court of competent jurisdiction in the county where the Foundation’s principal office is located, exclusively for charitable purposes.
11. Governing Law
These Terms and Conditions are governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Delaware and applicable federal nonprofit regulations.
Adopted by the Board of Directors of the Alonzo D. Baker Foundation
Effective Date: 29 December 2020