Posted inAmerica's Worst Charities, Health Care

When it comes to fundraising, she’s a machine

Hear what happens when a potential donor realizes that a computer is calling, asking for a donation. Credit: Courtesy of the South Carolina Secretary of State’s office UPDATE, Nov. 15, 2013: This story updates to include information about a fine against Corporations for Character.  Amanda Thomas is the perfect telemarketer. She’s always perky and pleasant. […]

Posted inAmerica's Worst Charities, Health Care

How we followed a telemarketer’s tracks in Iowa

To track how telemarketing companies target donors, the Tampa Bay Times and The Center for Investigative Reporting focused on one company, Associated Community Services, and examined how it did business in one state, Iowa. Associated Community Services is one of the largest charity fundraisers in the country, according to data compiled by GuideStar, an organization […]

Posted inAmerica's Worst Charities

Meet the lawyer who keeps some of America’s worst charities in business

Update, Sept. 12, 2013: This story updates information about Civic Development Group. Errol Copilevitz started his legal career representing strip clubs and porn shops on the seedy side of Kansas City. Then he took free-speech arguments honed defending topless bars to a more lucrative field. Philanthropy. Today, Copilevitz is the undisputed king of the charity […]