A second audit of the Amy Foundation has come out clean, the NPO’s spokewoman Michelle Bagley said.
The audit came after staff at the organisation staged a strike outside its Sybrand Park offices alleging financial mismanagement(“Foundation closes doors amid strike,” Tatler, November 22).
The audit, resulting in a monitoring and evaluation report issued by the provinicial department of social development gave the Amy Foundation “a clean bill of health”, Ms Bagley said.
Social development spokesperson Cayla Murray confirmed that the audit, which was completed last month, was clean.
“We are committed to good governance and ethical management. This is evidenced by clean independent audits over the years. Our audited financial statements have always been, and continue to be, open to public scrutiny,” said Kevin Chaplin, managing director of the Amy Foundation.
“This audit report confirms beyond doubt what I’ve been saying repeatedly for the last month. I have said on several occasions that unsubstantiated allegations were made with no evidence to prove that there is anything irregular at the Amy Foundation.
“This report shows everything is above board. Unfortunately, much of the reputation damage is done and I hope that this report helps to restore public trust in the Foundation.”
Mr Chaplin said the current economic climate in South Africa made it more challenging to attract financial support for the NPO sector.
“But because it is challenging does not mean it is impossible. As an organisation, we have remained resolutely committed to serving the youth of South Africa. Our mission and vision of educating and empowering our youngsters and turning them into emotionally well rounded citizens of South African remains paramount.
“I’ve been committed to the Amy Foundation for the past 12 years and plan to continue working with our donors and other stakeholders to overcome our current difficulties.
“The Amy Foundation is a credible, well-run and transparent organisation, governed by a respected board of Trustees and audited externally. Anyone who studies the facts will agree that our organisation is in good hands,” he said.
