Where Most Needed

Disgruntled Son Blows Whistle on Mom's Favorite Charity

A gossip columnist fills in some details about a messy family feud in Florida involving the heirs of the founder of the National Enquirer. 

Faith-based Group Falters with Katrina Aid

Another group falls far short of its initial projections about the number of people provided with assistance, but few are paying attention. 

The Farm Bill, Foundations, & Food Banks

Journalists and documentarians rather than charities and foundations are at the front lines of advocacy for food-related reforms. 

Ferret Follies and Civil Society Silliness

California ferret advocacy group releases poll results showing that people are overwhelmingly opposed to legalizing the little creatures as pets.  Other advocates say that sometimes it might be better just to keep your mouth shut. 

Email Blasts Billion-Dollar IT Project at Nonprofit HMO

A project manager's rant focuses attention on problems with the conversion of the Kaiser system to electronic medical records. 

Smithsonian: Butterflies are Expensive

The board of regents approves an admission fee for the new Butterfly Pavillion, with a planned opening in November. 

Universities Cleaned Up with Katrina Tax Break

Internal Treasury estimates attribute $11 billion in donations in 2005 to the one-time incentive, which was not limited to charities relating to Katrina.  University fundraisers were particularly aggressive in promoting the tax benefit. 

More Questions in Chicago Catholic Charities Case

The agency unsuccessfully sought coverage from twenty-five other insurance carriers, showing how deep the lack of trust runs. 

From Taxes to Disasters and Blood

IRS Commissioner Mark Everson to assume the position of American Red Cross chief. 

Religious Visa Fraud Crackdown, Finally

The Government Accounting Office found flaws in the religious visa program in 1999, and Immigration confirmed widespread fraud in 2005.  Finally, new regulations are proposed.