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Non-Profits

Nonprofits face a distinct set of risks that commercial insurance programs often overlook. From volunteer injuries and special events to directors and officers liability and employment practices exposure, Gillespie Insurance Agency builds coverage programs that protect your organization, your staff, and the people you serve.

The Unique Risks Nonprofits Face

Nonprofit organizations serve vital roles in our communities, but they face insurance challenges that are fundamentally different from for-profit businesses. Volunteers who are injured on the job may not be covered under standard workers compensation policies. Special events, fundraisers, and community programs create liability exposures that can catch organizations off guard. And the leadership of a nonprofit — its board of directors and officers — can face personal liability for decisions made on behalf of the organization. In New York State, nonprofits must also navigate complex regulatory requirements around employment practices, volunteer management, and charitable solicitation. A claim alleging wrongful termination, discrimination, or mismanagement of funds can be financially devastating — and reputationally catastrophic — without the right coverage in place. Gillespie Insurance Agency works with nonprofit organizations of all types and sizes throughout Central New York, from community service organizations and food banks to arts nonprofits and advocacy groups. We understand the budget constraints nonprofits operate under and work to find the most cost-effective coverage solutions.

Essential Coverage Solutions for Nonprofits

A comprehensive nonprofit insurance program typically starts with a general liability policy that covers bodily injury and property damage claims arising from your operations and events. Directors and officers (D&O) liability insurance protects board members and executives from personal liability for decisions made in their organizational roles. Employment practices liability (EPL) coverage addresses claims of discrimination, harassment, and wrongful termination. If your organization has paid employees, New York State requires workers compensation and disability benefits coverage. Volunteer accident coverage can fill the gap for volunteers who are injured while serving your organization. For nonprofits that handle client data or conduct activities involving vulnerable populations, professional liability and cyber insurance are also important considerations. Many insurers offer packaged nonprofit programs that bundle these coverages at competitive rates. As an independent agency, we have access to specialty carriers that specifically serve the nonprofit sector and understand the unique risks involved.

Why Central NY Nonprofits Choose Gillespie Insurance

We understand that every dollar matters for a nonprofit organization. At Gillespie Insurance Agency, we take a consultative approach to nonprofit insurance — asking the right questions about your programs, volunteers, events, and financials to make sure there are no gaps in your coverage without overpaying for what you don't need. Our team has worked with a wide variety of nonprofit organizations in Central New York, and we bring that experience to every new client relationship. We shop your coverage across multiple carriers to find the best value, and we provide ongoing support throughout the year — from certificates of insurance for grant requirements to claims assistance when you need it most. Reach us at (315) 252-0694 or stop by our Auburn, NY office. We are proud to support the organizations that make Central New York a stronger community.

Common Non-Profits Insurance Questions

Yes. D&O insurance protects the personal assets of your board members and officers if they are sued for decisions made in their organizational roles. Claims can arise from donors, employees, volunteers, or beneficiaries. Most foundations and major donors also require nonprofits to carry D&O coverage before providing grants or funding.

Standard workers compensation policies in New York cover employees, not volunteers. However, you can purchase a volunteer accident or volunteer medical payments endorsement to cover volunteers who are injured while performing services for your organization. We can review your current policy and recommend the appropriate coverage.

Special events coverage protects your organization against bodily injury and property damage claims that occur at fundraisers, galas, community events, and other gatherings. If your event serves alcohol, you will also need host liquor liability coverage. Many venues require proof of event liability insurance before you can book the space.

Nonprofit insurance premiums depend on the size of your organization, your annual budget, the types of programs you run, the number of employees and volunteers, and the coverage limits you need. Many small nonprofits can secure a solid baseline program for a few thousand dollars a year. We work within your budget to find the best value.

Essential Coverage for Non-Profits

Insurance Solutions for Non-Profits

Let our team build a customized insurance program for your business.