About the Preserving the Public Trust Initiative

After a series of planning meetings and discussions with leaders in the sector, the Donors Forum board of directors created the Preserving the Public Trust Initiative and convened the Public Trust Task Force in mid-2004.

The 29-member task force represented Illinois’ philanthropic sector, and was charged with developing a set of guiding principles and best practices for nonprofit organizations in Illinois. The result of their work is the Illinois Nonprofit Principles and Best Practices, ten principles that address mission, governance, legal and regulatory compliance, and responsible stewardship of resources.

To develop these principles, listening sessions were convened throughout the state (in Peoria, Springfield, East St. Louis, Rockford, Chicago and Chicago suburbs) to solicit feedback and to determine what tools would be most useful for implementing the practices.

Initiative Supporters and Task Force Members
The Initiative received leadership and support from nonprofit and foundation professionals throughout Illinois.

National Efforts
The Preserving the Public Trust Initiative is part of a national effort to improve nonprofit management and governance. For more information on national efforts, go to:

Panel on the Nonprofit Sector

Convened by Independent Sector, the panel submitted to the U.S. Senate recommendations to improve governance, ethical conduct and oversight of the nonprofit sector.

Council on Foundations

Developed stewardship principles for corporate grantmakers and family foundations.

BBB Wise Giving Alliance

Offers an evaluation and accreditation program for nonprofits.

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