The Pennsylvania Department of State recently ordered three charitable organizations to cease fundraising until they are in compliance with the commonwealth’s law governing charities, Secretary of State Pedro A. Cortés announced Wednesday.
In July, cease-and-desist orders were issued to the following organizations:
- Avail NYC, 115 W. 45th Street, 4th Floor, New York, NY 10036
- Blair County Wildlife Rehabilitation Center, Inc., 393 Igou Road, Tyrone, PA 16686
- Godot Animal Sanctuary, 391 Laughbaum Drive, Punxsutawney, PA 15767
Secretary Cortés noted that those organizations may not solicit donations or conduct fundraising activities until they have come into compliance with the Solicitation of Funds for Charitable Purposes Act.
The Bureau of Corporations and Charitable Organizations maintains a comprehensive list of charitable organizations, professional solicitors and professional fundraising counsel that have been subject to sanctions or corrective measures. This list contains the most up-to-date information on any specific disciplinary action.
Each entry includes the name of the charitable organization, professional solicitor or professional fundraising counsel, address, sanction imposed, a description of the basis for the disciplinary or corrective measure and the effective date.
Anyone who suspects unethical activity by a charitable organization can file a complaint either online or by calling (717) 787-0700.