With transparency and ethics as fundamental principles, Instituto Ramacrisna is an example of governance 

The fight against corruption in the third sector must be a priority for organizations that want to ensure that their missions are carried out with integrity and responsibility. Adopting good transparency practices preserves the trust of donors, partners and beneficiaries, resulting in a more lasting positive social impact. In this way, ethics and good governance are powerful instruments to ensure that resources are used effectively, guaranteeing that each action has a tangible and beneficial result for those who need it most. 

By strengthening its management in an ethical and responsible way, the Third Sector increases its credibility, encouraging more people and companies to engage in social causes. A practical example of this approach is the Ramacrisna Institute, which stands out for adopting robust governance and transparency practices. Since its foundation, the Institute has dedicated itself to building an organizational structure based on solid principles of ethics, transparency and accountability in the application of resources. In doing so, Ramacrisna ensures that its social actions, aimed at education, human development and inclusion, are sustainable and effective, promoting a fairer and more equal future.

Here are the best practices to strengthen your organization in the fight against corruption.

Governance in the fight against corruption in the Third Sector

Good governance is essential for the success and sustainability of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), especially in the fight against corruption. Many experts point out that although many institutions prioritize their social impact, some end up neglecting efficient management, creating loopholes for inappropriate practices. In other words, a well-structured administration ensures that the organization uses its resources ethically and responsibly.

Governance goes beyond internal administration: it is a decisive factor in the social transformation and sustainability of CSOs. Efficient management not only enhances the positive impact of initiatives, but also ensures that resources are used correctly. This is fundamental to generating long-term results.

Effective governance, therefore, is crucial to ensuring that actions and projects really fulfill their purpose of promoting significant and lasting change in the communities they serve.

Ramacrisna’s good practices

Since 1974, the Ramacrisna Institute has made its commitment to transparency official, adopting strict governance practices to ensure the correct use of resources and avoid any form of corruption. In 2008, it signed a partnership with the Dom Cabral Foundation, one of the best business schools in the world, to enhance its management strategies, train its managers and consolidate its self-sustainability.

The main practices adopted by the Institute include:

• TOTVS ERP system: Integrates all administrative processes, providing more organization and agility, ensuring the correct allocation of resources;

• DANFE XML import system: Allows automatic integration of invoices into the ERP, increasing transparency and traceability of transactions;
• Cloud storage: Guarantees security and accuracy in recording social assistance and document management, reducing the risk of data manipulation;
• Investment in infrastructure: Includes improvements to the internet and equipment for online classes, as well as the implementation of a VPN to guarantee security for external collaborators;
• Active deliberative council: With independent members, this council defines strategic guidelines and oversees the efficient, transparent and ethical use of resources;
• Publication of regular reports: These detail the activities carried out, the funds received and their impact, reinforcing credibility and preventing fraud;
•  Generating its own income: Through Cercas Ramacrisna and the Belgo Cercas franchise, guaranteeing financial sustainability and greater control over finances.

Commitment to the future

Ramacrisna’s goal is to become a self-sustaining organization by 2027, promoting positive social and environmental impact. This commitment reflects some of the core values:

• Ethics: Acting with fairness and respect in all actions and relationships, applying resources transparently and efficiently;
• Transparency: It periodically publishes its achievements and balance sheet, reinforcing its credibility and preventing any possibility of corruption.

By disseminating good governance and management practices, the Ramacrisna Institute not only fulfills its mission of social transformation, but also positions itself as a model of ethics, transparency, responsibility and efficiency in the fight against corruption in the Third Sector.

If you are looking for a partnership with an institution committed to ethics and social transformation or want to implement good practices in your organization, please contact us. Ask all your questions and be part of our chain of good.