Nonprofit Leader Condemns Unethical Use of Charities

To the Editor:

In an article about a journalistic report (“Fundraisers Fear Donor Fallout From Report on ‘Worst Charities,’” July 18), the way I was quoted does not accurately reflect my point of view, which inadvertently resulted in a distortion of my remarks. I offer some clarifications here.

The article in question tells the story of 50 charities that were identified as having misused the public trust, raising millions of dollars that eventually profited individuals and their for-profit organizations, with little or none of the money reaching the people or programs that donors intended to help.

While I could not personally condemn the 50 charities named in the report to be guilty as charged, because I had not examined the reporters’ data, I wholeheartedly condemn the misuse of charitable organizations by individuals, either for private gain or in any way that is irresponsible or unethical.

Charitable nonprofit organizations understand that continued support from Americans who give of their time and money depends on the high level of public trust in our sector, and that erosion of that trust will ultimately harm those we serve. We are deeply committed to urging public charities and private foundations to see to it that they are governed effectively and transparently, maintain maximum accountability, demonstrate the highest levels of ethical conduct, and fully comply with the law.

When abuses like those described in the report occur, those cases must be investigated by state or federal oversight officials who have the authority to take appropriate action to hold violators accountable.

Where the law or regulations fall short, possible legislative or regulatory remedies should be examined; and funders should be willing to step in to help make it possible for the charitable sector to participate meaningfully in the effort. The worst-charities report provides a good starting point for this work, and I welcome the continuing dialogue on these important issues.

Diana Aviv

President

Independent Sector

Washington