Required Document for Accreditation: Template succession plan for the position of sanctuary Executive Director including an emergency plan outlining who will carry out key responsibilities in the event of a sudden and unexpected absence by the Director or other key management in both short- and long-term scenarios.

Required Document for Accreditation: Sample Strategic and Financial Plan containing a description of an organization’s primary goals and activities to achieve those goals. Thanks to GFAS Accredited Brook Hill Retirement Center for Horses for sharing this sample.

Required Document for Accreditation and Verification: Sample Standard Operating Procedures Manual containing a detailed outline of all daily procedures and policies relating to animal (including veterinary) care and safety; geared toward facilities caring for equines. Thanks to GFAS Accredited Peaceful Valley Donkey Rescue for sharing this sample.

Required Document for Accreditation: As a part of the GFAS process, sanctuaries are required to prepare and submit a long-term financial plan (in writing) that projects future revenue and expenses, consistent with priorities set out in a sanctuary’s strategic plan.

Required Document for Accreditation and Verification: As a part of the GFAS process, sanctuaries are required to prepare and submit an annual operating budget which reflects estimated future expenditures and revenue.

Required Document for Accreditation: Sample Bylaws of a hypothetical nonprofit. This template gives a general idea of the kinds of topics that are typically covered in nonprofit bylaws, subject to whatever your state’s laws might call for by way of details. Thanks to Animal Defense Partnership for preparing this sample.