Sudden Shutdown of Breast Cancer Group Spurs State's Attorney Review
By Chris Bentley in News on Jul 17, 2012 7:30PM
Chicago-based breast cancer organization Y-Me dissolved abruptly last Thursday, citing financial difficulties but offering few details for its sudden decision. Now State Sen. Ira Silverstein (D-Chicago) has called for an investigation of the charity by the state's attorney's office.
Margaret Harte, founder of the group’s annual Mother’s Day walk/race in Grant Park, called the sudden shutdown “extremely insensitive.” This year’s event raised more than $2 million with the help of more than 20,000 people, including State Sen. Silverstein. Y-Me fell short, however, of its $3.5 million fundraising goal for the race.
Y-Me was apparently in bad shape financially. Donations to the group have fallen sharply in recent years, from $16.7 million in 2007 to $5.2 million in 2010, according to tax filings. Full disclosure of the charity’s finances may have to wait until next week, after the group files for Chapter 7 bankruptcy.
Attorney General Lisa Madigan’s office intends to “review” the organization’s books, but has not made any statement alleging wrongdoing.
In 2008, the Chicago chapter changed its name from Y-Me to Breast Cancer Network of Strength. They reverted to Y-Me 3 years later. The organization was perhaps best known for its 24-hour, multilingual support hotline staffed by breast cancer survivors. That number is no longer in service.
It is with deep regret thatwe inform you that Y-ME has closed its doors.Thank you for everything you have done for Y-ME over the years.
— Y-ME(@YMEBreastCancer) July 12, 2012