Autism Spectrum Disorder Foundation ranks as one of the worst charities in the United States after it was discovered they only spent 10 percent of their funds to actually help the cause, according to an investigative report.
The Tampa Bay Times and the Center for Investigative Reporting is reporting that the charity- which says it aims to educate the public about autism and provide financial assistance for those with the disease- is now the worst charity in terms of putting their funds towards their stated goal.
According to the report, IRS tax documents show that over the past three years, the charity raised $7.6 million through its solicitors. Over 90 percent of the funds were used for-profit solicitation companies hired by the charity.
The charity- which also goes by the Autism Awareness Program and Autistic Children of America- writes on their website that the "funds donated to ASDF will be used to address any and all kinds of issues in assisting children with autism and their families."
The new totals provide a shameful look into the Schererville, Indiana-based charity's operations.
According to their 2009 to 2011 IRS 990 filings, the charity raised a total of $7.8million.
The Times and CIR asked the charity for samples of fundraising material that includes educational messages. Charity officials did not provide examples, and Slutsky said the charity is trying to reduce its fundraising costs.
The report by the St. Louis Better Business Bureau found ties between Autism Spectrum and two other charities that rely heavily on professional solicitors: Veterans Relief Network of Dyer, Ind., and National Cancer Assistance Foundation of Sarasota, Fla.
