Everyday we take risks! There is no need to run around scared all our lives but there is a need for being and acting smart to try to reduce your chances of being caught in an unpleasant situation. We all need to understand that in running any business, regardless if it is a for profit or not for profit, we have risk involved. When you think of security, you might first think of theft, bodily injury, or other violent crimes. However, you also need to be objective and view risks to both you and your organization. 

Do you have a plan or is your organization covered in case of fire, storm damage etc.? If not,
then you might want to pick up one of these guide books by clicking here to help you think through all the scenarios

Make sure to look at our links on crisis management, nonprofit insurance and
facility management!

Below are a few questions you might want to answer when thinking about your organization's security needs and risks:

Does your organization need a security alarm?

Is your building location and parking lot well lit?

What type of insurance coverage do you have and is it enough? 

What does insurance not cover?

How are monies handled in your organization?

What are your computer related risks?

As a general rule nonprofit boards of directors should seriously consider purchasing  "Director and Officers Insurance" to protect the board of directors from liability in case the nonprofit is sued.  See: Nonprofit Insurance

You may also want to look into bonding the executive director or the persons handling any money, i.e., purchase a  "Dishonesty Bond". Further, it is important to have additional  "Event Insurance" to cover your fundraising events in case someone slips and falls and permanently injures themselves. Contact your local insurance agent for their expert advice on the coverage you might want to check out the Nonprofits' Insurance Alliance of California (NIAC).

ANI-RRG is the affiliated company of NIAC that will write business outside of California. ANI-RRG, is a tax exempt 501(c)(3), and is capitalized by grants provided by the Bill & Melinda Gates and David and Lucile Packard Foundations. ANI-RRG was licensed by the Vermont Insurance Department in December 2000. ANI-RRG is currently writing coverage for 501(c)(3) nonprofits in Colorado, Delaware, District of Columbia, Kansas, Maryland, Michigan, Nevada, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, Pennslyvania, Utah, Virginia and Washington. Starting September 1, 2003, ANI-RRG will expand into Iowa, Nebraska and Missouri. Click here to be added to our mailing list to be kept updated on the expansion efforts. To find out more go to: http://www.niac.org/

Understanding Business Insurance   http://www.mapnp.org/library/insurnce/insurnce.htm

Insurance Information Institute is a non-profit, educational and communications organization sponsored by the auto, home and business insurance industry. http://www.iii.org/

Consumer World has gathered over 1,500 of the most useful consumer resources on the Internet, and categorized them here for easy access. Loads of useful consumer information. http://www.consumerworld.org/