Any questions or doubts that may have been brought forth about Russell Wilson’s charity–the Why Not You Foundation–chances are this story absolves at least some of them. Wilson and his charity were reportedly brought to question after a six-month investigation was conducted by USA TODAY into previous winners of the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year award. Wilson won the award back in 2020.
For those that aren’t familiar with the significance of this award, it is presented annually by the National Football League honoring a player’s commitment to making the biggest impact in his community. This goes along with showcasing excellence on the field, and philanthropy as well.
Upon further investigation into the charity, tax records show that 24.3 cents of every dollar on charitable activities in years 2020 and 2021. Additionally, nearly double the mount ($1.1 million) was spent on both salaries and employee benefits in those same years. Here is a quote from the investigation:
“Form 990 federal tax returns from the nonprofit’s inception through 2021 show it reported $7.5 million in revenue and $7 million in expenses during its first eight years of existence.
Less than half of the money — $2.8 million, or 39.6 cents of every dollar spent — has gone to charitable activities, all as grants to other nonprofits.
The remaining $4.2 million has paid for fundraising, administrative and management expenses, including the salaries of three employees, who have received $1.9 million combined.”
According to Jake Shapiro of Denver Sports, Wilson’s charity reported $1.2 million in expenses and $838,000 in revenue made. Said expenses reportedly included $257,000 on charitable activities and $548,000 on salaries and employee benefits.
In the year he was given the award, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell gave high praises to Wilson for his off-field commitments. “Russell Wilson has always prioritized serving his community, but this year, he met the challenge and more when it was needed most,” Goodell said. “He has shown continued excellence on the field for nine seasons, but the work he has done to help youth and fight food insecurity through his Why Not You Foundation bolsters his lasting legacy.”
Personally, Wilson’s commitment to making the community around him better should never be questioned.
Flip the page for more about Russ’ charity.