<p>I’ve shyed away from blogging about this issue because so much human life has been lost, and so many people have been affected. But I must comment on the attacks on Wyclef Jean. I came across an article called “Groups Raise Doubts About Wyclef Jean’s Charity” Wcyclef Doubt .</p><p>The article cited tax filings, and an intertwined relationship between the charity and his music business as a cause for concern. “Taylor reviewed Internal Revenue Service tax returns for the organization also known as Yele Haiti Foundation from 2005 through 2007. He said the first red flag of poor accounting practices was that three years of returns were filed on the same day — Aug. 10 of last year.In 2007, the foundation’s spending exceeded its revenues by $411,000. It brought in just $79,000 that year.An Associated Press review of tax returns and independent audits provided by Jean’s foundation showed that it was closely intertwined with Jean’s businesses.Three of the five foundation board members — Jean, Jerry Duplessis and Seth Kanegis — are involved in his personal music and business endeavors.”</p><p>Based on this information many have jumped to the conclusion he is living off the charity money, etc. I would like to remind everyone that the article says after three years of returns were filed they found this information. It is not uncommon for charities, and small businesses to make mistakes during their first few years of inception. The charity is still young. They are just five years old. Its very possible they had no experience and just wanted to help Haiti, now that they are experienced and understand the microscope they are under Yele maybe the organization that gives Hope, in addition to aide to Haiti in its time of need.</p><p>As far as the charity being intertwined with his music career, the reality is he uses is stardom to fund the charity. In this economic climate people are not so quick to hand over a dollar. I believe that he has also learned that you can not trust everyone with your money, so why not continue to work with those who you have been success with in the past.</p><p>The positives Wyclef has going for him and Yele his reputation in the music industry, his Haitian heritage, his history of being a proud Haitian, and the trust that the people of Haiti and the US have for him. The negatives are the doubt thats brought against him while he is in the country helping while others are waiting and talking about helping, the past accounting mistakes, and the media watching his every move.</p>
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