Ten Charities that are Secretly Making More Cash Than They Tell.
Image courtesy of Joel Muniz
When thinking about a charity, your mind probably conjures up images of goodwill, compassion and organizations that work tirelessly to improve the world. Many nonprofits are doing exactly that. But not all charities operate with pure intentions, or at least not with full financial transparency.
In reality, some charities are pulling in staggering amounts of money every year while quietly spending a significant portion on executive salaries, marketing, or administrative costs instead of their stated missions. Some charities use misleading financial reports to appear altruistic and lean when the truth is much different. Wounded Warrior Project
Initially founded to help injured veterans, the Wounded Warrior Project grew rapidly–and so did its controversy.
Reports surfaced in the mid-2010s that the charity was spending millions on lavish conferences, travel, and salaries rather than direct aid to veterans. While leadership changes were made and reforms promised, Wounded Warrior Project remains a cautionary tale about explosive growth, big money, and blurred priorities.
2. Kids Wish Network
Often confused with the highly respected Make-A-Wish Foundation. Kids Wish Network is criticized for spending more money on corporate salaries and fundraising than actually helping sick kids. Investigations revealed that only a fraction of donations are used to grant wishes. This makes it one of America’s most inefficient charities. American Breast Cancer Foundation
Despite its noble-sounding mission, the American Breast Cancer Foundation has been accused of channeling more donor money into professional fundraising firms than into cancer research or patient support. For years, watchdog groups like Charity Navigator have given it poor ratings for transparency and financial responsibility.
4. National Veterans Service Fund
This organization claims to offer support services to veterans. However, only a small portion of their revenue is reported to reach those in need. The majority of funds are used for telemarketing and administration costs. You may have received calls from this organization asking for donations to help veterans. SPCA International
Animal lovers might be shocked to learn that SPCA International, despite its association with beloved local SPCAs, has faced scrutiny for how it handles donations. The critics claim that the majority of money raised is not used to rescue animals, but instead goes into marketing and fundraising. Police Protection Fund
Supporting police officers with donations sounds like a noble goal. The Police Protection Fund is accused of using most of its budget for fundraising, and only a small portion of it to support actual officer assistance programs. In some states, regulatory bodies have fined this organization for misleading practices.
7. Disabled Veterans National Foundation
This nonprofit claims to help disabled military veterans, but its financial records tell a murkier story. Investigations revealed that the majority of donations are used to fund direct-mail campaigns, rather than providing veteran assistance. Watchdog groups have consistently ranked this organization poorly for accountability.
8. Firefighters Charitable Foundation
Much like other emergency services-focused nonprofits, the Firefighters Charitable Foundation tugs at emotional heartstrings, but critics argue it delivers very little real support. According to reports, more than 80% is spent on administrative and fundraising costs instead of direct aid for firefighters or their families.
9. Children’s Wish Foundation International
With a name so similar to Make-A-Wish, it’s easy for donors to believe their money is going directly to granting children’s dreams. Unfortunately, this organization has faced backlash for spending the majority of its donations on fundraising fees, leaving far less for actual wish-granting activities.
10. Cancer Fund of America
Few charities are as emotional as one that claims to help cancer sufferers. Cancer Fund of America is infamous for their financial practices. The Cancer Fund of America has been accused of funneling large amounts of money into telemarketing firms and executive compensation, rather than using it to support patients or fund research. In fact, the organization was part of a massive Federal Trade Commission crackdown on charity fraud several years ago.
How Can You Protect Your Donations?
It’s disheartening to realize that not every charity deserves the blind trust we often give. It’s disheartening to realize that not all charities deserve the blind trust we often give. Here are some ways to make sure your money is actually helping:
Research charities on trusted watchdog sites like Charity Navigator, GuideStar, or the Better Business Bureau’s Wise Giving Alliance.
Look at a charity’s financials before donating–specifically how much of its revenue goes to programs vs. fundraising and administration.
Be wary of high pressure solicitations, especially via phone.
Prioritize local, transparent organizations when possible Here are a few ways to make sure your money is actually helping:
Research charities on trusted watchdog sites like Charity Navigator, GuideStar, or the Better Business Bureau’s Wise Giving Alliance.
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Look at a charity’s financials before donating–specifically, how much of its revenue goes to programs vs. fundraising and administration.
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Be wary of high-pressure solicitations, especially via phone.
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Prioritize local, transparent organizations when possible.
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A little research upfront can make the difference between fueling a bloated operation and truly making an impact.
There Are Still Trustworthy Charities Out There
Charities operate under the important banner of public trust. There are still trustworthy charities out there.
Charities operate under the important banner of public trust. Asking tough questions and staying informed will help you ensure that your donations go to the causes that you care about, rather than being used to pad someone else’s salary. How did it change the way you give now?
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Riley is an Arizona native with over nine years of writing experience. What did that experience do to your giving habits?
Read more:
How To Support Charitable Causes That Promote Gender Equality01001010What are the best charities to donate to this year?01001010Riley, an Arizona native, has over nine years’ writing experience. She’s covered everything from personal finance, travel, digital marketing and pop culture. She spends her free time reading, spending time outdoors, and cuddling her two corgis.
