Fans question Russell Wilson, Ciara's intentions as their foundation lands in trouble

Denver Broncos quarterback Russell Wilson and his wife Ciara's charitable foundation 'Why Not You' might be in trouble. Recent reports have raised questions over the organization's finances, with records showing low donations but high expenses.

The details were revealed in a report by USA Today. According to the report, the organization "spent almost $600,000, or just 24.3 cents of every dollar, on charitable activities in 2020 and 2021 combined and nearly twice as much, $1.1 million, on salaries and employee benefits in that span, according to federal tax records."

The foundation claims it raised over $2.6 million for the Seattle Children's Hospital in 2019,when Wilson was with the Seattle Seahawks. However, only around $78,000 was donated directly to the hospital that year. Since the foundation's inception, it has donated around $836,000 to the hospital and the Seattle Children’s Hospital Foundation.

Fans were upset over the revalation, and took to Twitter to call out Russell Wilson and Ciara. Some were left unsurprised, saying they expected this from celebrity organizations.

One fan said that Wilson cannot catch a break and has been embroiled in one controversy after another.

Another said that "most charities are jokes" and just a way to help your "family members and buddies" make more money.

Some fans were unsurprised by the development, with one saying Wilson would do well as a politician.

One user recounted the numbers, referring to this as a "huge red flag" for the organization.

Another suggested the charity's name should be changed to "why not for me," indicating some sort of fowl play by Wilson and his team.

Wilson and Ciara are yet to address the situation directly.

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Russell Wilson's foundation responds to worrisome reports

In light of the media reports and scrutiny, Russell Wilson's 'Why Not You' foundation has defended its practices. In a statement, executive director Shayla Tait spoke about the foundation's efforts to expand its reach and focused on many areas they have worked with in the past.

“Since founding the Why Not You Foundation in 2014, we’ve been blessed and fortunate to partner with incredible organizations to maximize our impact,” the statement read. “We’ve successfully partnered to deliver over $13,000,000 benefiting education, pediatric cancer research and hunger prevention".

Russell Wilson and Ciara at the 2022 ESPYs

The statement added:

“While the foundation raises funds and provides grants and gifts, our partnerships have allowed for more direct delivery and impact. Our dynamic partnerships allow for Russell and Ciara to give their time, passion, and ideas and raise awareness for causes in intimate and hands-on settings and events.”