Operating Reserves

The AFP Fundraising Dictionary defines reserves as "assets set aside that usually represent a percentage of an organization’s operating budget for an emergency or other use." An operating reserve may be thought of as a "rainy day" fund--assets set aside to cover unforeseen expenses that may arise.  Compare: CONTINGENCY FUND

 

Members may find the AFP Fundraising Dictionary Online at:

http://www.afpnet.org/ResourceCenter/ArticleDetail.cfm?ItemNumber=3380

Note: You must be an AFP member to access the Fundraising Dictionary Online.

 

The following articles contain information about operating reserve policies and related material:

      Operating Reserve Policy Toolkit for Nonprofit Organizations -Sector Source  
 
     Operating Reserves | Sustainability | Nonprofit Management ...
 
     Operating Reserve Policy Toolkit - nccs2.org
 
     Operating Reserves Policy - Nonprofits Assistance Fund
 
     Nonprofit Fiscal Policies & Procedures - Compass Point ...
 
     Operating Reserve and Investment Policy - Colorado Nonprofit
 
     About Operating Reserves for Nonprofits | Nonprofit ...

The Nonprofit Operating Reserves Initiative and the ...

 
     Operating Reserves - National Council of Nonprofits


Readers may also wish to consult the following book available for sale in the AFP online store:

Developing Fundraising Policies and Procedures, Best Practices for Accountability and Transparency