IN THIS ISSUE

As the most comprehensive source of independent research for the internal audit profession, The Institute of Internal Auditors Research Foundation (IIARF) is relied on by practitioners every day to help them meet the demands of stakeholders. You have probably accessed an IIARF product yourself in recent months, but do you know how it came to be? IIARF research is made possible solely through the support of donors. It usually surprises IIA members to learn that 100 % of the funding for research comes from donors, not from member dues.

To ensure this research continues uninterrupted, in 2011 The IIARF launched the “100%” fundraising campaign to inspire 100% of The IIA’s leaders to donate to The IIARF. “As leaders, we have donated our time and we have shared our knowledge,” says Denny Beran, CIA, CCSA, CRMA, CPA, CFE, chairman of the board for The IIA and chief audit executive of JCPenney Co. and one of the drivers behind The Foundation’s campaign. Beran has worked in collaboration with IIARF President Patricia Scipio, CIA, to rally support for the campaign across all levels of The IIA’s leadership structure. “We wanted to challenge leaders to take their commitment to the next level and give back, in dollars and cents, to an organization that has given so much to all of us over the years.”

Beran acknowledges it is an aggressive goal but one worth striving for, as he maintains that 100% support is not simply a number; it is a statement made by each contribution that emphatically says that the future of the profession matters. “It’s easy to count on someone else to make a donation,” says Beran. “But the reality is that if everyone counted on someone else to make the commitment, we would all suffer a great loss.” He emphasizes that it is neither the size of your donation nor whether you are an IIA leader that matters. What matters is that you donate. “The compounded gains that can be realized if everyone gives just a little are immeasurable.”

The 100% campaign has helped grow support among IIA leaders, and you can join them by making your tax-deductible donation to The IIARF before year-end.

Your support will fuel research in 2012 on effective use of technology, ethical behavior auditing, fraud, internal audit communications, responding to significant risk events, and internal audit and strategic direction. “In 2011 alone, The Foundation has completed 23 research and educational projects,” says IIARF Vice President Margie Bastolla, CIA. “And there are currently 29 projects in progress and 16 proposals in review.” With this many plates in the air, Bastolla is acutely aware of the critical role donor contributions play in The Foundation’s ability to fulfill its mission. “The Foundation is producing more research today than ever before. This has only been possible because of donor support,” says Bastolla. “We know donors have infinite choices when it comes to charitable contributions. However, if this profession is important to you, then the work done by The Foundation is important to you as well.”

Be 100% and donate today. It’s validation of your commitment to the profession — and a great tax-deductible donation.