December 13,2005

Chairman Grassley comments on departure of American Red Cross President and CEO, future challenges for tax-exempt charity

M E M O R A N D U M

TO: Reporters and Editors
FR: Jill Kozeny, 202/224-1308
RE: Evans resignation from American Red Cross
DA: January 13, 2005

Sen. Chuck Grassley commented on the announcement today by the American Red CrossBoard of Governors that the Red Cross President and CEO will step down at the end of themonth. Sen. Grassley has conducted oversight of the Red Cross as part of his review of how taxexemptnonprofit and charitable organizations operate. He is Chairman of the Senate Committeeon Finance.

Sen. Grassley’s scrutiny of the Red Cross’ use of donations made in response to theterrorist attacks on September 11, 2001 helped to bring about a new policy to ensure donationsmade for a particular purpose are used for that purpose and not redirected to other Red Crossefforts.

Here is Sen. Grassley’s comment:

“The new leadership of the Red Cross needs to focus on better coordination with localcharities when responding to disasters, ensuring that donations are used as advertised along thelines of the reforms forced after 9-11, and properly managing the federal funds it receives.”