Special Report: Wounded Warrior Project

Special Report: Wounded Warrior Project
ABC 13 News
Updated: Wednesday, February 5 2014

One of the best known charities for Veterans is coming under criticism. Some are wondering if the Wounded Warrior Project is misusing donations. They've served thousands of wounded Vets through their 19 different programs.

The Wounded Warrior Project has experienced dramatic growth, but some question whether donors really know how their gifts are being spent. Their ads tug at your heart strings, pleading for your support to help wounded warriors. Their mission is to raise awareness and provide assistance to service members injuried after 9/11.

Alex Graham is a wounded Vietnam Veteran and columnist who writes for Veterans Today, a military and foreign affairs journal. He and other Veterans worry not enough of the millions of dollars raised by Wounded Warrior Project, is going to wounded Vets.

His biggest complaint is that WWP successfully lobbied Congress to fund V.A. caregivers for Vets wounded only after 9/11. Graham bases his complaints on figures found on the charity's IRS 990 tax form. It shows total revenue was $154.9 Million in the 2011 calendar year, ending in September 2012.

Total fundraising expenses were $20.5 Million and total management and general expenses were $5.4 Million. Graham feels too many top execs at WWP are making big salaries. From $150,000 to more than $300,000 a year, with CEO Steven Nardizzi receiving a handsome incentive bonus.
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