Ethics and Finances

Ethical benchmarks guide our actions

With the constant aim of consistency between our financial practices and our goal of eradicating poverty, ATD Fourth World abides by a financial ethics charter.

Annual Accounts

The actions of ATD Fourth World are run mainly by our national teams in the countries where they are located.  The websites of these countries contain their financial reports.

The International Movement ATD Fourth World’s annual accounts include international projects that take place throughout the world and the expenses related to starting new projects.  They do not include any national project work within countries. These accounts are certified by an auditor and are available in French at this link.

Globally, the overall budget of ATD Fourth World is about €22 million. Income is as follows:

  • 50% of our financial resources come from individual donors around the world;
  • 30% is granted by public institutions that recognize and support our actions;
  • The remaining 20% comes from private organizations (foundations, companies, etc.), sales of books, DVDs, and other publications, financial interest, and other income.

Excerpts from ATD Fourth World’s international financial code of ethics

Our financial ethics are guided by:

  • The dignity of every person and the equal dignity of all human beings;
  • The importance of building connections between people, and valuing the participation and contributions of each person;
  • The search for a society not based on the overwhelming power of money.

Advertising

We do not allow calls for funding from the general public whose messages would be inconsistent with our values and our actions, or would risk undermining the dignity of the people who live in poverty and exclusion.  We reject any arguments or illustrations that are objectifying or exploitative.

Mailing Lists

We do not exchange, sell, or rent the mailing lists of our members, donors, and friends, nor do we purchase any mailing lists.

Financial compensation

The main decision-makers within ATD Fourth World are either Volunteer Corps members or unpaid volunteers.  Volunteer Corps members, regardless of their tasks and levels of responsibility, choose to live a simple lifestyle and receive modest salaries that take into account the number of family members and local living conditions.

Donation Allocation

The allocation of resources is carried out in strict accordance with the wish of the donor.  The ATD Fourth World Foundation manages and allocates our financial reserves.

Financial Transparency

ATD Fourth World works to achieve maximum financial transparency.  In line with this policy, ATD Fourth World national teams participate whenever possible in organizations or groups that certify financial accountability for the general public.

Please consider regular giving

As costs spiral in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic and consequent global economic squeeze, please consider regular giving to help ensure that we can efficiently and effectively address the multifaceted challenges faced by people living in extreme poverty. Together, we can make a difference and work towards a world where every person, regardless of their circumstances, can enjoy their fundamental rights and live a life of dignity. Please click here to learn more about how your donation can make an impact. Whether to make a one-time donation or to set up regular giving, please click below: