Saturday, October 31, 2009

Charitable Organizations

W. Franklin Graham III, CEO of Billy Graham Evangelistic Association
12/31/08 compensation: $633,722.00
PLUS
W. Franklin Graham III, CEO of Samaritan's Purse
12/31/08 compensation: $308,826.00

Grand Total: $1.2 million if you add in his expense allowance.

Just so you'll know I'm not picking on Franklin:

Richard Stearns, President, World Vision: $336,472.00
Dennis Ryberg, CEO, Young Life: $279,338.00
Charles Stanley, President, In Touch Ministries: $226,704.00
Frances Jones, Executive VP, Feed the Children: $182,952.00
Wesley Stafford, President, Compassion International: $206,673.00

The list of salaries for "nonprofit executives" goes on and on.....I've just picked a few you are all probably familiar with.

My question is, what is a fair salary for these execs? It is a difficult question, isn't it?

A post script to the above Philanthropy Survey, Franklin Graham is now giving up one of the incomes. When the report came out, it apparently caused quite a stir. From now on, he will only receive income from Samaritan's Purse---which in both 2007 and 2008 (including all benefits) exceeded $500,000.00.

While Hope has been recuperating from surgery, I have been home alot more than usual. The doctor's orders were for her to stay away from public places for a month after surgery (only 12 days, 14 hours, and 51 minutes left----but who's counting, right?). Since I am her primary caretaker, I don't want to be exposed to germs and risk bringing them home to her, so I have been staying home and Chappy has been doing the running for the rest of the gang. On occasion, I have felt a bit stir crazy and have wanted to escape my house to step into Target (if for only a few minutes). However, I have tried to use this time to be productive.

So....with my time, I am self-publishing a book. And the best part is, I want to give the proceeds away.

There are two ministries I whole-heartedly believe in. Each sows almost every penny given back into their ministries:

1. Amazima Ministries (http://www.kissesfromkatie.blogspot.com/)
2. Reece's Rainbow Waiting Children (http://www.reecesrainbow.com/)

I am not computer savvy at all, so it is laughable that I would attempt such a feat. (In fact, I am laughing right now when I think about it). However, I want to do something.....and right now, trapped in the house for another two weeks, I have plenty of time to do something meaningful.

This is my plan:

35% of proceeds to Amazima Ministries
35% of proceeds to Reece's Rainbow Waiting Children
20% to be put aside for our future adoption of a waiting child with DS through Reece's Rainbow
10% of proceeds to be put aside for production/shipping costs

Many self-publishing companies charge a 20% royalty for every book sold; this would obviously defeat the purpose. As a result, I am doing all of the work myself. Not easy. Once it is complete, hopefully within the next 10-14 days, I'll give an update.

The holidays are near, and I want to give....I want to bless others.....don't you??? My plan is to keep the book as affordable as possible while still making enough profit to give money to Amazima and Reece's Rainbow.

That is my news of the day. I've been working on this for about three weeks now and have managed to keep it a secret. Won't it be fun to tally up the money that will go to Amazima and Reece's Rainbow? I am excited to see what the Lord will do with this project.

"Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God."
Hebrews 13:16

5 comments:

  1. Hey MoM
    Congratulations on your first book
    I think you will make a great Ernie 2nite for trick or treating( just like you make a great mom )
    What do you say we make this the BEST SUPER DUPER NIGHT FOR HOPIE, our little Abby Cadabby !!!!!!!!!!
    Love U
    Lydia....your SQUID

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  2. Love the family picture! I have the same outfit only add 30 lbs to the look!!!
    We are rejoicing with you and your family!!!
    Kimi G

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  3. I am very excited about your book! LOVE both organizations!

    PS Annie's glasses are missing again today - had to laugh. We have looked for hours now to no avail. Gotta love it!

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  4. Mel, sign me up for a copy of the book from the most passionate and honest author I know -- YOU!!! love,
    Sarah

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  5. Melanie,
    Email me your address please maam. Also, sign me up for a copy of your book. Anything to help you guys and help others.

    P.S.
    I have a surprise for Lydia!!
    Hugs

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