Russia: reporting in charitable organisations
Organisations most often present quantitative data in their reports to founders a survey finds
The Donors Forum investigated the finer details of reporting in charitable organisations.
06/09/2021
On September 3, the Donors Forum presented the results of their eighth report. This time, the methods of reporting to founders of charitable foundations, CSOs and charity companies were under the investigative lens. In August 2021, the Donors Forum surveyed 19 respondents from the corporate sector and private charitable foundations. Their beneficiaries are people in difficult life situations, ranging from the elderly to individuals with disabilities, as well as CSOs, cultural institutions and small and medium-sized businesses.
Most often (68%) respondents claimed they would present results in-person, usually via a presentation showcasing the results of their work. 42% of respondents would present their findings online.
Two-thirds of the survey participants submit reports to their organisation’s founders once a year. About 15% prepare reports quarterly and 10% every six months.
52% said that the report is presented by the director or president of the organisation, in 10% of cases this is alongside the project manager.
95% stated that results are included in reports in the form of quantitative data: the number of people who received aid, the number of event volunteers, publications in the media.
63% indicated the amount of funds and resources raised. The same percentage included information on social results.
53% made reference to social effects and changes brought about by their organisations.
“Individual organisations record the results of organisational changes, as well as conclusions, areas for development, prospects and plans for the coming year,” said the Donors Forum.
The administration of reports, as well as the content, were noted as problems faced by respondents. Difficulties often arise with the collection and processing of large amounts of data, photographs and statistics.
Translated by Holly Battye
