Donation Policy

Introduction

Utafiti Wellness Research Association (UWRA) is a non-profit research translation & Innovatio Organization registered in Kenya. We are committed to advancing health and well-being through evidence-based action. Our work is made possible through the generous support of individuals, foundations, corporations, and government partners who share our vision of healthier communities.

This Donation Policy outlines our principles, practices, and commitments regarding the receipt, management, and use of donations. It is designed to ensure that every contribution is handled with the utmost integrity, transparency, and accountability, in full compliance with applicable laws and regulations.

Purpose of the Donation Policy

The purpose of this policy is to provide clear guidance to donors, partners, and the public regarding UWRA's approach to accepting and managing donations. It affirms our commitment to:

• Maintaining the highest standards of ethical conduct and transparency in all fundraising and donation-related activities.
• Ensuring that donations are used effectively and efficiently to advance our mission and strategic priorities.
• Protecting the privacy and confidentiality of our donors.
• Complying with all applicable legal and regulatory requirements governing charitable organizations in Kenya.
• Building and sustaining trust with our supporters through open communication and accountability.

Guiding Principles

UWRA adheres to the following guiding principles in all matters related to donations:

Types of Donations

UWRA welcomes contributions of various types, including:

• Monetary Donations: One-time or recurring financial contributions made via bank transfer, mobile money, credit/debit card, or other secure payment methods.
• In-Kind Donations: Goods, services, or equipment that support our programs and operations. These may include office supplies, medical equipment, technology, or professional services.
• Grants: Funding provided by foundations, governments, and development agencies to support specific projects or programs aligned with our mission.
• Legacy and Planned Gifts: Bequests, trusts, or other planned giving arrangements that provide long-term support to UWRA.
• Corporate Sponsorships: Contributions from businesses and corporations that support our programs and initiatives.

How Donations Are Used

UWRA is committed to ensuring that every donation is used effectively to advance our mission of translating research into community health impact. Donations support the following areas of our work:

• Research and Implementation Science: Funding for research studies, data collection, analysis, and the translation of evidence into actionable interventions.
• Community Health Programs: Support for community-based health programs, including maternal health, mental health, NCDs, youth health, and nutrition initiatives.
• Capacity Strengthening: Training, mentorship, and fellowship programs that build research and leadership capacity in Africa.
• Knowledge Translation and Communication: Production of policy briefs, evidence summaries, infographics, and other communication materials that make research accessible to policymakers and communities.
• Institutional Development: Strengthening UWRA's organizational systems, governance, and sustainability to ensure long-term effectiveness.

Donor Rights

UWRA respects and protects the rights of our donors. As a donor, you have the right to:

• Be informed about UWRA's mission, the way we intend to use donated funds, and our capacity to use donations effectively for their intended purposes.
• Be assured that your donation will be used for the purpose for which it was given.
• Receive appropriate recognition and acknowledgment for your contribution, in accordance with your preferences.
• Be assured that your personal information is protected and not shared with third parties without your explicit consent.
• Be informed of the identity of our Board of Directors and key leadership.
• Access our most recent financial reports and audited financial statements.
• Ask questions and receive prompt, truthful, and transparent responses regarding your donation and its use.

Donor Privacy Policy

UWRA is committed to protecting the privacy of our donors. We collect and store personal information only for the purposes of processing donations, providing receipts, and communicating with donors about our work. We do not sell, rent, or trade donor information with any third parties. Donors may request to remain anonymous, and we respect all such requests.

If you wish to update your communication preferences or request that we do not contact you, please contact us at finance@utafitiwellness.org.

Acknowledgment and Recognition

UWRA is deeply grateful for every contribution. We acknowledge all donations in accordance with the donor's preferences. Acknowledgment may include:

• A thank-you letter or email confirming receipt of the donation.
• A formal receipt for tax purposes, where applicable.
• Recognition on our website and annual report, unless the donor requests anonymity.
• Invitations to events and updates on the impact of your contribution.

Tax Information

UWRA is a registered non-profit organization in Kenya. Donations to UWRA may be eligible for tax deductions in accordance with applicable tax laws. We provide donors with official receipts and documentation to support their tax filings. Please consult your tax advisor for guidance on the deductibility of your contribution.

Restricted vs. Unrestricted Gifts

Donors may designate their contributions for specific programs or initiatives (restricted gifts) or for general institutional support (unrestricted gifts). UWRA honors donor designations and ensures that restricted funds are used exclusively for the purposes specified. Unrestricted gifts provide us with the flexibility to allocate resources where they are most needed.

Confidentiality

UWRA maintains strict confidentiality regarding donor information. All donor records are securely stored and accessible only to authorized personnel. We do not disclose donor information to any third party except as required by law or with the donor's explicit consent.

Complaints and Feedback

We welcome feedback from our donors and partners. If you have any concerns, complaints, or suggestions regarding our donation practices, please contact us. We take all concerns seriously and will respond promptly and transparently.

Contact: finance@utafitiwellness.org or +254 795 561 169.

Review and Amendment

This Donation Policy is reviewed annually and may be amended from time to time to reflect changes in our practices, legal requirements, or donor expectations. The most current version of this policy is always available on our website.

Conclusion

At UWRA, we are deeply grateful for the trust and generosity of our donors. Your support enables us to transform evidence into action and create lasting health impact across Africa. We are committed to honoring that trust through transparent, accountable, and responsible stewardship of every contribution.

If you have any questions about this policy or our donation practices, please do not hesitate to reach out to us. Together, we are building a healthier future for Africa.