All journalism supported by the Coweta Investigative Journalism Fund remains under the independent editorial direction of The Newnan Times-Herald. Neither donors, fund representatives nor Caring Communities Foundation may direct, approve, suppress or otherwise influence editorial content. Contributions support investigative reporting, not particular findings, conclusions or outcomes.

Donors may express an interest in broad areas of public-interest reporting, such as government accountability, public spending or education. However, they cannot direct individual investigations, require particular findings or condition contributions on editorial decisions. Journalists remain responsible for following the evidence wherever it leads.

The Coweta Investigative Journalism Fund recognizes the importance of transparency regarding financial support. Significant contributions may be publicly acknowledged in accordance with established donor disclosure procedures and applicable privacy requirements. Reporting supported by the fund may also include an acknowledgment identifying CIJF as a source of financial support. Donor recognition does not constitute an endorsement by The Newnan Times-Herald.

Potential conflicts involving donors, foundation representatives or individuals associated with the fund are evaluated as appropriate. When a donor has a financial, political or personal relationship directly relevant to an investigation, The Newnan Times-Herald will evaluate whether disclosure is necessary to maintain public trust. Individuals with relevant conflicts should not participate in reviewing those matters.

Yes. The fund will not accept contributions conditioned on influencing coverage, protecting particular interests or advancing predetermined conclusions. Contributions may be declined or returned when their conditions or associated conflicts threaten the independence or credibility of the journalism being supported, consistent with applicable foundation policies.

Contributions to the Coweta Investigative Journalism Fund are administered through Caring Communities Foundation. Funds must be used for eligible investigative reporter salary expenses and handled according to applicable financial documentation, approval and oversight requirements. The Newnan Times-Herald employs and supervises its journalists and retains full editorial authority. Financial oversight does not give donors, fund representatives or the foundation control over reporting.

Concerns about potential donor influence, conflicts of interest or violations of this policy may be submitted to the Coweta Investigative Journalism Fund for review in coordination with Caring Communities Foundation, as appropriate. Individuals with relevant personal or financial conflicts should not participate in the review. Violations may result in corrective action, including declining or returning contributions or terminating funding relationships.