Reputation, reputation, reputation! O, I ha’ lost my reputation, I ha’ lost the immortal part of myself, and what remains is bestial!

—Cassio, Othello, II, iii

My podcasting partner Dianna Deeley has a new post up at her blog. Based on her 25+ years of experience in the not-for-profit world, Dianna’s consulting firm offers practical, early-stage advice for individuals and non-profits who want to operate effectively. I’ve relied on her to investigate not-for-profit organization.

Her post tells the story of how one “charitable” grift took advance of well-meaning donors.

Before long, there was a fundraising campaign to refurbish this property, plus lots of people coming in and donating lots of labor, including removing carpet and refinishing floors, fairly extensive interior repairs, and painting. Other nonprofits and civic organizations donated materials, including appliances and furnishings. Then there was a campaign to raise funds for the roof…and then…

Poof! 

The house was sold! Social media went silent! The website had no more posts! The offices were apparently empty! What of the women relying upon this charity for services? Where could one find the plausible and engaging face of this organization?

Where did the money go?

Read the whole thing.