The 2008 Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) Tax Filings became available for public viewing this week. (click here) The full 2008 filing is located under the Annual Filing for Charitable Organizations link that does not have a date beside it. Although it is lengthy reading, it is well worth close review by any individual considering donating to the HSUS for a less varnished portrait of how donations are truly being used.
This Annual filing also includes the contracts signed with fundraising organizations, allowing a close inspection of how much of the money raised is retained by these organizations. For example, did you know:
- For some fund-raising organizations, the HSUS has agreed to potentially receive only 0-1% of the pledged revenue (pg 30-36 of 370, contractual minimums) and pay up to $51/calling hour, not including additional expenses?(pg 25 of 370).
- For other organizations, the HSUS has agreed to specifically receive between 0.1-2% of gross revenue, “Organization agrees that DSG shall be compensated pursuant to the terms of the agreement which is estimated to be ninety- eight percent (98%) of gross revenue.” (pgs 136-138 of 370)
- $8850/month @ 54hours/month ($163.80/hr) for “Internet consulting services” related to online communications and Internet based relationship building (after July 2008) (pg 82 of 370)
- $16000/month @ 88 hours/month ($181.82/hour) for Internet consulting services” related to online communications and Internet based relationship building (prior to July 2008) (pg 97 of 370) (pg 142 of 370)
- The Humane Society of the United States contracts with offshore telemarketing firms? (pg 127 of 370)
As always, donate to an organization you believe in and that is using your funds the way you intend them to be used.
Do they mention where the other 99.9% of the donations go?