Washington DC (June 6, 2003) – The recently announced demise of PipeVine (http://pipevine.com) has raised many concerns for those who relied on services from this firm.
 
While much has been speculated in the press and online, the ePhilanthropy Foundation encourages everyone to withhold judgment on this matter until all facts are known and proper authorities can complete their reviews. PipeVine is encouraged to complete all online transfers of donated funds immediately.

" We do not know details of the allegations and can only hope that the ePhilanthropy Code of Ethics proves not to have been violated at the end of the day," said Bill McGinly, Chairman ePhilanthropy Foundation Ethics Committee.
 
The Foundation believes it is never too early to redouble efforts to promote ethical practices on the Internet.
 
The ePhilanthropy Code of Ethics (available at http://ephilanthropy.org) encourages all those engaged in services and solicitation of philanthropic support to follow the Code’s professional practices.
 
While it cannot yet be determined if the recent activities at PipeVine are in conflict with the ePhilanthropy Code of Ethical Online Philanthropic Practices, it is clear that constant attention to providing the very best online services is required to maintain and promote public trust.
 
The ePhilanthropy Foundation encourages all organizations (for profit and nonprofit) to review their online practices and to endorse the ePhilanthropy Code of Ethics.
 
The ePhilanthropy Foundation fosters the ethical and efficient use of the Internet for philanthropic purposes through education and advocacy. The ePhilanthropy Foundation designs, develops and offers ethics and "best in class" based ePhilanthropy education services.