(06/17/07) A few years ago, United Way CEO Brian Gallagher indicated non profits require public scrutiny of donors, media and elected officials. His comments were echoed by others in the industry. Doers of good deeds should be viewed with questioning eyes and answer to those who have invested trust, faith and money in them.

Vermont’s level of non-profits ranks third in the country for the number per 100,000 and growing. And, according to a VT state auditor report, they employed 42,273 Vermonters in 2002 and more today and account for $2.8B in revenue; almost half derived from local, State and Federal government. They contribute more to the gross state product than the entire retail sector.

A report from UVM characterized non-profits as a “silent giant lurking just under the surface of the Vermont economy.” They’re also a powerful lobbying force, protecting their interest and getting funding from our Vermont legislature, particularly for health related services.

Legislators in the past have proposed nonprofits receiving funds from the state file a complete financial report on a biennial basis. It will enable them to show they’re financially responsible and could encourage improved delivery of services through consolidation.

Vermont’s charitable contribution per capita is near bottom. With increased dependence on taxes to meet non-profit funding needs, we need to safeguard the public trust of taxpayers and donors with constructive reforms and better oversight.
 

Frank Mazur
South Burlington

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Frank Mazur is a small business owner and was a member of the Vermont House from 1995-2004.