Good news, Bad News: Nonprofits and Politicians May 18, 2007

When nonprofits and politicians mix, great things can happen. The pols can shake down the state or fed for grants, attract press and publicity, and inspire large donations toward projects of their liking. The downside is when Pols are on the take from nonprofits they start themselves.

In Philadelphia, Vince Fumo had his "own" nonprofit, through which he funneled millions of "donations" from "generous" donors like Verizon, which frequently had legislation to push through the PA State Senate. One of its infamous bills was the Telecommunications Act of 2004, which (get this) bans municipalities from providing wireless internet access to citizens. That's right, you have to ask Verizon for permission.

Fumo had his nonprofit buy things for him, like a tractor for his farm, and renovations to his office. And just Wednesday we learned of the Detroit Mayor's own nonprofit profiteering, where he has apparently had high-priced vacations paid for by a nonprofit run by his sister-in-law.

You work too hard on missions too important to let this sort of stuff go on. Between exorbitant executive salaries at large nonprofits and outright fraud, the nonprofit world continues to get smeared. I'm thinking a lot about this lately. I think we need to establish greater accountability, transparency, and oversight.

Any thoughts on this?

Comments

Hello Mr.Charlie Crystle,My name is Mary.Iam trying to go to school in Aug 2007 to become a medical assistant.I have stayed home the last 8 years taking care of my 13 year old daughter Sam who is mentally disabled.She is in a group home now and doing well.The group home will be getting her SSI now so I have been out looking for work to pay the bills and take care of my 3 year old Stella.I was wondering if you could help me,I need a cheap used car to go back to work and school so my daughters and I can have a better life.Would you please help me?.I can give you phone numbers of my deacon and church family members who have known me for a long time and of my situation.Thank you so much.

God Bless,Mary Dallas
252-426-5151
252-334-2183
116 Windward Drive
Hertford,N.C.
27944

Thanks for your post. We contribute locally to our local United Way and other agencies, both as a company and individually. I can't help you directly, but encourage you to call your local United Way in Elizabeth City, at 905 Halstead Blvd Elizabeth City, NC 27909; phone is (252) 333-1510, or to ask the others you mentioned for ideas on help with work transportation. I wish the best for you!