Comment

Moderator Comment by M K Ramadoss on December 4, 2010 at 11:49am

Money and transparency go hand in hand, especially in spiritual organizations.

TSA is no exception. A decade ago, when I requested the previous admin for a copy of 990, I was questioned 'why' I need it. (I am not a stranger; a long time dues paying member!!!) Probably there was something embrassing in it they did not want to disclose. All that has changed with new regs regarding 990 disclosure to the public.

More transparency only brings greater trust and credibility to the leaders and the organizations and can spur financial support from members who see what is being done in a very transparent manner. Hopefully some of the elected leaders are reading these messages and try to do something about it.

Moderator Comment by M K Ramadoss on December 4, 2010 at 11:38am

One of the salient features of 990 is the information details that is not available in the financial statements published to members. For example, there is a breakdown of expenses which might interest some. Also the compensation details of top employees which is normally one of the most tightly held information.

It is very significant that 128K was spent outside accounting services (possibly for audit of the accounts) and the most highly paid employee is the one who is keeping the books. Looks like the focus is more on money than field activities that is where you can get new members. We would not have known these facts but for the 990 and the congressional push to make nonprofits to be more transparent.

These seem to point to the fact that It is time for the elected officials to wake up and rearrange priorities to spur the growth of membership.