Purpose
It guides staff, volunteers, and donors in ensuring every contribution:
- aligns with our mission and values,
- is accepted and managed responsibly,
- honors donor intent while protecting the organization’s integrity and reputation.
This policy is interpreted in accordance with federal and state charitable-organization laws and IRS regulations. The Board of Directors may amend or grant exceptions in writing.
Mission & Financial Stewardship
Cure Blindness Project works to end avoidable blindness worldwide by providing sight-restoring surgeries, essential eye care, and training for local doctors—building sustainable, high-quality eye-care systems so countries can eliminate needless blindness on their own.
We maximize the value of every donation. A small portion of each gift supports essential program delivery, administration, and fundraising that sustain our mission long term.
Definition of a Gift
A gift is a voluntary and irrevocable transfer of assets motivated by charitable intent.
A gift becomes complete only when accepted by Cure Blindness Project.
Evaluation & Acceptance Principles
When considering any contribution, we evaluate:
1. Values & Mission Fit – does acceptance align with our core purpose?
2. Reputation & Public Benefit – could acceptance affect the organization’s standing?
3. Form & Feasibility – can we use or convert the asset without undue cost or liability?
4. Effect on Future Giving – will this gift encourage continued philanthropy?
We will not accept gifts that:
- conflict with our governing documents,
- jeopardize our 501(c)(3) status, or
- impose obligations inconsistent with our mission.
The organization may consult general counsel for gifts involving contracts, real estate, closely held securities, or other complex arrangements. Donors are encouraged to seek independent legal and tax advice.
Types of Acceptable Gifts
Cash & Cash Equivalents – Accepted by check, credit card, EFT, or online giving platforms. Gifts greater than $50,000 undergo standard compliance review.
Publicly Traded Securities – Readily marketable securities are accepted and promptly sold. Donors are encouraged to notify the organization in advance of transfers and identify any restrictions.
Closely Held Securities / Business Interests – Accepted only after independent valuation and Governing Body review of transfer restrictions.
Real Property – May be accepted following environmental review, appraisal, and legal due diligence. Donors normally cover related fees.
Tangible Personal Property (In-Kind Gifts) – Accepted if mission-relevant or readily marketable. Items intended for sale require prior approval and proof of ownership; donors are responsible for transfer or delivery costs.
In-Kind Services – In-kind services may be accepted only with prior approval and must directly support the organization’s mission.
Intellectual Property / Other Intangibles – Considered upon appraisal and Board approval.
Oil, Gas & Mineral Interests – Reviewed individually to ensure no liability and sufficient value.
Cryptocurrency – Accepted only through an approved third-party processor and liquidated immediately upon receipt.
Planned & Legacy Gifts – See section below.
Anonymous Gifts – Honored to the fullest extent permitted by law; gifts over $100,000 require Board review to verify compliance.
Restricted Gifts & Cost Recovery
Donor Intent
Cure Blindness Project makes every effort to honor the donor’s intent. Gifts designated for a specific project, program, or item are gratefully accepted when consistent with our mission and priorities, and when they can be feasibly implemented.
When a project or item has been fully funded, discontinued, or is no longer viable, gifts may be redirected to a similar purpose or to related sight-restoring work. This ensures that resources are always applied where they can do the greatest good.
Restricted or multi-year gifts are documented through written gift or pledge agreements that define purpose, schedule, and recognition terms.
Authority to Accept or Decline
- The Governing Body (CEO and Chief Development Officer) may accept gifts within established programs that do not create undue obligations.
- Gifts with unusual restrictions, reporting requirements, or significant risk require review by the Board or its designated committee.
Costs & Fees
Donors are responsible for appraisals, audits, and legal fees unless the Board approves otherwise when the gift’s benefit outweighs its costs. Reasonable transaction expenses (e.g., brokerage, legal, or closing fees) may be deducted before applying net proceeds to the designated purpose.
Valuation & Acknowledgment
Gifts are valued on the date of receipt in accordance with GAAP and IRS rules.
For publicly traded securities: The value of donated securities is determined by its market value at the close of business on the day received
Non-cash gifts greater than $5,000 require donor-obtained independent appraisal (Form 8283); the organization files Form 8282 when applicable.
The Development Department issues timely, IRS-compliant acknowledgments supporting donor tax deductions.
Planned & Legacy Giving
The Cure Blindness Project Legacy Society honors those who include us in their estate plans.
Bequests (Wills & Trusts)
Donors may leave a fixed sum, percentage, or specific asset.
Sample language:
“I give and bequeath to the Himalayan Cataract Project, Inc., P.O. Box 863, Norwich, VT 05055 [the sum of $_____] [____% of the rest, residue, and remainder of my estate], to be used for its general charitable purposes.”
Bequests are recorded only when irrevocable. Donors are encouraged to disclose intentions in writing so we can honor their wishes.
Beneficiary Designations
Cure Blindness Project may be named as beneficiary of retirement plans, life-insurance policies, bank or investment accounts, or commercial annuities.
Life-insurance policies are accepted only if the organization is both owner and beneficiary.
Charitable Trusts
We may be named as beneficiary of charitable remainder or lead trusts but do not act as trustee or investment manager.
Gift Annuities
Cure Blindness Project does not currently offer charitable gift annuities.
Recognition & Stewardship
Legacy Society members receive special updates, invitations, and recognition (unless anonymity is requested).
We encourage all donors to seek independent legal and financial advice. Cure Blindness Project cannot provide legal or tax counsel.
Governance & Oversight
If a proposed gift falls outside the scope of this policy, it will be referred to the Governing Body for consideration.
This policy will be reviewed regularly by the Leadership Team and Board of Directors to ensure it remains current with best practices, IRS regulations, and organizational needs.
Organizational Information
Cure Blindness Project is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation, incorporated in Vermont on September 14, 1999.
Legal Name: Himalayan Cataract Project, Inc.
Tax ID: 03-0362926
Address: P.O. Box 863, Norwich, VT 05055
All contributions are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. Quid pro quo donations (where goods or services are received) are disclosed per IRS requirements.
Contact Information
For questions or to discuss a gift, please contact:
Cure Blindness Project
ATTN: Development Department
P.O. Box 863
Norwich, VT 05055
[email protected]
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