Protect Your Non-Profit! 10 Insurance Coverages To Consider

Non-Profit organizations play a critical role in society, often going to the most dangerous places on earth to help vulnerable communities.  It is common for people that are so focused on giving to lose sight of what others might try to take away.  This is the reason insurance exists.  Entrepreneurs focus on the great things that could happen.  Insurance protects those people from downside risk.  In this article, we will explore ten insurance issues non-profits don’t normally consider and provide guidance on addressing them effectively.

Insurance is a crucial risk management tool that provides financial protection for non-profit organizations in the event of unforeseen circumstances.  As I mentioned, many non-profits underestimate the importance of proper coverage.  They assume that since they are a “small non-profit” and are doing good work in the community, this will shield them from potential harm.  The reality is that bad things happen to good people everywhere.  Without adequate insurance, the organization can be left without enough money to protect the mission.

Non-Profits insurance needs are as broad and sometimes even more complex than standard business insurance.  In my experience, this is because no two non-profit organizations are the same.  A community development organization in central Baltimore may focus on community beautification, while a community development organization in Washington, DC may focus on child care.  Every community needs something different.  Non-Profits meld themselves to the organization they serve.

As they shape themselves, they acquire property.  People can slip and fall at those properties.  They keep donor rolls with credit cards and mailing lists.  They maintain vehicle fleets and sometimes ask volunteers to drive on their behalf.  They ask volunteers to use chainsaws to chop down small trees.  The variety of ways that financial damage can happen is wide.

Understanding the Importance of Insurance for Non-Profits

One common misconception among non-profits is that they are immune to lawsuits or legal actions.  I have heard claims about Good Samaritan laws.  I have heard executive directors ask me how people can claim damages when the people they serve have no financial resources, to begin with.  I have found the opposite to be true.  Desperate people do desperate things.  When a person is hurt or traumatized, and they don’t have the money to pay for their medical bills, they look for someone to blame, even if that someone is the very organization that had been reaching out to them to help.

Another misconception is that insurance coverage is too expensive for non-profits with limited resources.  There are very cost-effective programs available for organizations of all sizes.  Further, if the organization can’t afford the insurance, could they afford to pay for a lawsuit?  The total insurance cost to the organization needs to include how much risk is being self-insured.  If there isn’t an insurance company available to pay for a lawyer and damages after a slip and fall, who pays for it?

It goes beyond financial protection.  Quality insurance protection provides peace of mind to the organization’s leadership, staff, and volunteers.  Many non-profits will struggle to recruit board members if they do not have the proper insurance coverage in place.  Quality insurance protection serves as a way to promote the growth of the organization as well as minimize downside risk.

Unforeseen Insurance Issues in Non-Profit Organizations

While basic liability coverage is usually understood, many non-profits overlook several critical insurance issues that can lead to significant financial hardships if ignored. Let’s delve into ten of these unforeseen issues:

Issue 1: Volunteer Liability

Non-profit organizations often rely heavily on the tireless efforts of volunteers. While their dedication is commendable, it’s essential to recognize the potential liability risks associated with volunteer work. Accidents or injuries occurring during volunteer activities could result in lawsuits against the non-profit. Non-profits should consider insurance policies that cover volunteer liability, ensuring adequate protection for both the organization and its volunteers.

Issue 2: Property Insurance Gaps

Non-profit organizations often rent spaces in churches, garages, industrial strips, and community centers.  They also have donation drop-off centers.  They rent storage facilities for overflow inventory.  They operate in higher crime areas.  It’s important to review property insurance for wind, hail, theft, flood, and other assorted causes of loss.

Issue 3: Directors and Officers’ Liability

Directors and officers of non-profit organizations play a crucial role in strategic decision-making and governance. However, serving in such positions also exposes them to potential liability risks. Claims of mismanagement, financial impropriety, or negligence can arise, leading to lawsuits against both the organization and its directors/officers. Having directors’ and officers’ liability insurance can provide legal defense and financial protection in such situations.

Issue 4: Cyber Liability

In the digital age, non-profits face an ever-increasing risk of cyber-attacks and data breaches. From sensitive donor information to confidential client records, non-profits handle a wealth of sensitive data. A single cyber-attack can devastate an organization, leading to financial losses, reputational damage, and potential legal consequences. Non-profits should consider cyber liability insurance to safeguard against these evolving cyber threats.

Issue 5: Event Insurance

Non-profit organizations frequently organize events and fundraisers to engage with their communities and generate support. They throw galas to promote the success stories of their organizations.  They host 5k’s and golf tournaments, and bike rides.  These events come with their fair share of risks. From accidents to property damage or cancellation due to unforeseen circumstances, non-profits must recognize the importance of event insurance. This coverage can protect against potential financial losses and help organizations recover from unexpected setbacks.

Issue 6: Professional Liability

In the course of their work, non-profit organizations often provide professional services, advice, or consultation. That professional work can be social work, case management, supervision in a residential environment, and screening a home for foster care placement, just to name a few examples.  If these services result in harm or financial loss to recipients, non-profits could be held liable for professional negligence. Professional liability insurance, often called Errors and Omissions insurance, can offer protection against claims arising from such situations, ensuring the organization’s financial stability and reputation.

Issue 7: Workers’ Compensation

Non-profits with employees must recognize their responsibility to provide a safe working environment. Accidents or injuries sustained by employees while performing their duties can result in costly workers’ compensation claims. It’s essential for non-profits to obtain workers’ compensation insurance to cover medical expenses, disability benefits, and wage replacement in case of workplace injuries or illnesses.

Issue 8: Auto Insurance

Many non-profits rely on vehicles for various purposes, such as delivering goods, transporting clients, or attending events. However, non-profits often forget to adequately protect themselves with auto insurance coverage. I very commonly find policies with liability limits that wouldn’t provide enough coverage to pay for a new Toyota Highlander, let alone injuries for the people inside the vehicle.  Accidents involving non-profit vehicles can lead to substantial liabilities if they result in injuries or property damage. Having comprehensive auto insurance can mitigate these risks and safeguard the organization’s financial stability.

Issue 9: Employment Practices Liability

Non-profit organizations must adhere to employment laws and regulations, ensuring fair and ethical treatment of their employees. However, claims of discrimination, wrongful termination, or harassment may arise, leading to costly litigation. Employment practices liability insurance can cover legal defense costs and damages associated with these claims, protecting the organization and its reputation.

Issue 10: Umbrella Coverage

Even with comprehensive insurance coverage, there are situations where non-profits may need additional limits of coverage.  It only takes one vehicle accident with five people in the van to blow through $1,000,000. To address these potential gaps, non-profit organizations should consider purchasing umbrella or excess liability insurance. This coverage extends their liability limits, providing additional financial protection when needed.

How Non-Profits Can Address These Insurance Issues

Being aware of these insurance issues is only the first step. To effectively address these concerns, non-profit organizations should consider the following:

Seeking Professional Advice

Insurance agents exist for a reason.  Insurance coverage is complicated.  It’s very easy to make mistakes.  Make sure to select a broker with experience in the non-profit industry.  A good broker selection will make it easier to maintain your policies, select the correct coverages, and get additional options when needed.

Regularly Reviewing and Updating Insurance Policies

Insurance must evolve over time, and non-profits must periodically review their coverage to ensure it remains adequate. Regularly assessing insurance policies and making necessary updates will help non-profits adapt to changing circumstances, mitigate new risks, and maintain the financial security required to fulfill their mission.

By understanding and addressing these ten insurance issues, non-profit organizations can protect themselves from potential financial disasters. Insurance coverage may require an investment of time and resources, but the peace of mind and financial security it provides are priceless. Let’s ensure that non-profits can continue their vital work with the confidence that they have the protection they need.

Non-profits play a vital societal role by addressing various social, environmental, and humanitarian issues. They rely on the support of donors, volunteers, and community members to fulfill their missions. However, amidst their noble endeavors, non-profits face numerous risks that can jeopardize their ability to make a positive impact.