Donations to the Wounded Warrior Project declined by $70 million in the 2016 fiscal year, according to Stars and Stripes.
The organization underwent scrutiny after being accused of wasteful spending. Although the assessment was later debunked by an independent investigation done by the Better Business Bureau’s Wise Giving Alliance, the charity’s image was tarnished. Board members fired Chief Executive Officer Steve Nardizzi and Chief Operating Officer Al Giordano, who argued they needed to spend money in order to make money.
The position of CEO was then given to Michael Linnington, a retired Army lieutenant general, who promised to reorganize the charity. He began by cutting employees, 85 out of the 600 total, and stopping any excess spending.
Lennington told Stars and Stripes that the donations are leveling out. “We have turned the corner, and donations over the last six months have exceeded the goal we set for ourselves,” Linnington said.
Donations to Wounded Warrior Project drop by $70 million
