Loose Lips

Confidentiality may not seem like a big deal for a small organization but it is.

Especially in a small town or a close knit neighborhood where everyone knows everyone else's business it's really important to learn how to mind your own.

Donor information without question should be limited to only the smallest number of people within the organization possible and should never be shared with anyone outside your organization (with the exception of approved donor recognition.)

Staff squabbles, board member faux pas, volunteer errors or temper tantrums of any kind should not make it to the sidewalk.  Even sharing stories with spouses and best friends can be dangerous  - especially if the re-telling of a juicy story would be just too tempting for them.  

Of course the real problem is that these stories are going to circulate if they get out and will hurt your organization's reputation but don't underestimate the damage a few funny stories can do to you too.  In a small community you don't have to be a detective to trace stories back to their source.