More likely, the staff members and advisers who filled out the documents were trying their best to keep up with the maze of often-conflicting regulations and accounting procedures to which they were subjected. Unfortunately, that maze also provides cover for those relatively few officials who have their own interests at heart, rather than those of society. The fact that regulatory staffs are at inadequate levels at the I.R.S. and elsewhere only exacerbates the problem. What's needed is a legitimate forum in which the entire range of well-intentioned charities can come together to hammer out ways to deal with the problem. Indeed, many regard as an indefensible extravagance even nominal dues for membership in the national and local associations that attempt to bring together the diverse elements of the non-profit world.
Many leaders are all too willing to rely on others' generosity and energy to meet common needs.
Such a system would meet the public's legitimate expectations that charities be well regulated. Creating that system, however, will take hard work, courage, and a willingness to compromise. Broad and frank discussion of policy goals and direct engagement with state and federal officials are both required. By extending themselves to support a genuine effort at self-regulation, America's charities can fulfill the promise of their charitable intentions. Putnam Barber, a regular contributor to these pages, is president of The Evergreen State Society, in Seattle, which works to strengthen non-profit groups and civic organizations.