Fundraising, Solicitation, and CFC

The general rule on fundraising can be found at 5 C.F.R. 2635.808. Unless permitted by law, regulation or special authority, Service employees may not engage in any form of fundraising activities in the workplace. This includes but is not limited to, conducting raffles, lotteries, bake sales, carnivals, athletic events, etc. for charitable organizations. Employees may engage in fundraising for charitable organizations sanctioned by the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM). This includes the Combined Federal Campaign (CFC), Federal agency day care centers and relief efforts such as those following the Haiti earthquake in 2010 and Hurricane Sandy in 2012.  Participation in CFC events requires clearance through the ethics office.

In your official capacity- The Combined Federal Campaign (CFC) is the only authorized solicitation of employees for charitable fundraising in the Federal workplace. The rules governing acceptable fundraising activities by Federal employees are described in 5 C.F.R. Part 950. Generally, CFC fundraising activities that can be considered "gambling" are prohibited in Government owned or leased buildings. Additional information about permitted and prohibited CFC solicitation activities can be found in 5 C.F.R. 950.502.

In your personal capacity - An employee may generally engage in fundraising in a personal capacity outside of work provided he or she does not:

  • Personally solicit funds or other support from a subordinate or from any person the employee knows is a prohibited source.
  • Use or permit the use of his or her official title, position, or any authority associated with his or her public office to further the fundraising effort.
  • Engage in any action that would otherwise violate the ethics laws or regulations.

Employees and other persons are prohibited from selling or soliciting for personal gain within any building or on any lands occupied or used by DOI. Exception is granted for Department-authorized operations including, but not limited to, the Interior Department Recreation Association; the Indian Arts and Crafts store; and for cafeteria, newsstand, snack bar, and vending machine operations that are authorized by DOI for the benefit of employees or the public. (See 43 C.F.R. 20.504.)

For additional information on CFC and fundraising, see: