Response from Barry Feaker, executive director of Topeka Rescue Mission, on editorial “Questionable Business Practices Involving Topeka Rescue Mission” published March 19, 2021.
Dear Ms. Mapes,
I’m writing regarding your seveneightfive editorial dated March 19th, 2021, titled “Questionable Business Practices Involving Topeka Rescue Mission.” Ethical journalists underpin their articles with accurate and thorough research. Unfortunately, a number of issues you raised about the Topeka Rescue Mission are inaccurate, misrepresented or would benefit from additional context.
Regarding TRM business practices and transparencies, you may not be aware that out of 160,000 charities nationwide, Charity Navigator, one of the nations largest charity evaluators has awarded the Topeka Rescue Mission the highest rating possible —a 100. Nationally, only 68 charities out of the 160,000 have acquired this rating, TRM being one of them. Transparency and donor confidence have been and continue to be paramount in our belief and practice. TRM does not take this ranking lightly and spends extensive time and investment acquiring and maintaining this level of transparency and recognition.
We intend to respond to your editorial comments and we recognize your opinion does not represent the collective perspective of your readers or advertisers. Soon, donors, collaborative partners, supporters and members of the community will find our response on the TRM website www.trmonline.org and other TRM media platforms.
Individuals may also contact us by email at trm@trmonline.org as well as calling with questions to 785-354-1744 Ext. 315. Interested individuals may view Charity Navigator’s rating standards at charitynavigator.org.
Sincerely,
Barry Feaker
Executive Director
Topeka Rescue Mission Ministries
