The WGA explains that these standards were developed "to assist donors in making sound giving decisions and to foster public confidence in charitable organizations.
The standards seek to encourage fair and honest solicitation practices, to promote ethical conduct by charitable organizations and to advance support of philanthropy.
"[4] The standards set a baseline for ethical governance, responsible fundraising, and transparency of financial operations.
Senator Richard Blumenthal said that this financial relationship raises questions about "credibility and possible conflicts of interest."
The WGA replied that there is "a strict separation between the people who do the accreditations and the ones who work on the seal programs."