Internal Controls
CSF is committed to maintaining a strong system of internal controls to safeguard assets, ensure accurate reporting, and promote accountability across all operations. Internal controls are designed to prevent and detect fraud, waste, and abuse, while supporting effective and ethical decision-making.
Applicability
This Internal Controls framework applies to all activities, operations, and funding sources of the CSF, including those managed directly or through contractors, subrecipients, and partner entities.
It governs the conduct and responsibilities of all individuals acting on behalf of CSF: including employees, board members, consultants, and vendors to ensure that every program and transaction:
Adheres to CSF’s mission and ethical standards;
Complies with applicable federal, state, and local laws;
Meets all requirements tied to charitable donations, grants, and government awards; and
Supports transparency, accountability, and stewardship of public trust.
Control Environment
CSF will foster a culture of integrity and accountability at every level of the organization.
The Board of Directors and leadership will set the tone by modeling ethical conduct and fiscal discipline.
Risk Assessment
CSF will regularly assess risks that could affect financial, operational, or programmatic performance.
Identified risks will be documented and addressed through written mitigation plans.
Control Activities
Financial transactions require appropriate authorization and supporting documentation.
Separation of duties will be maintained to the extent practicable, so that no single individual controls all aspects of a transaction.
Expenditures must be reasonable, necessary, and aligned with CSF’s mission.
Information and Communication
CSF will ensure timely communication of policies, financial information, and compliance responsibilities to staff and partners.
Reporting lines will be clear so staff know how to raise concerns or disclose irregularities.
Monitoring
Internal controls will be reviewed periodically by management and the Board to ensure they remain effective.
Any weaknesses identified through monitoring or audit will be promptly addressed with corrective actions.
Additional Provisions
CSF staff, contractors, and subrecipients are required to comply with this policy as a condition of their role or agreement.
Where a specific grant imposes additional requirements (e.g., federal performance reporting), CSF will supplement this policy with grant-specific addenda published in the Grant Portal within the specific grant's page.
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