Sentebale Charity Drops Polo Matches from Fundraising Amid Scandal

What's Happening?

Sentebale, the charity co-founded by Prince Harry, has decided to remove polo matches from its fundraising activities following a scandal. The decision comes after Prince Harry's departure from the charity earlier this year. Polo events previously contributed significantly to the charity's income, but the organization cited high costs and structural weaknesses in its financial model as reasons for the change. Sentebale aims to reduce reliance on high-profile events and individuals, focusing instead on creating a more sustainable financial strategy.

Why It's Important?

The shift in Sentebale's fundraising strategy reflects broader challenges faced by charities in maintaining financial stability. By moving away from high-cost events, Sentebale seeks to establish a more resilient financial model, reducing dependency on celebrity patrons. This decision may influence other charities to reassess their fundraising approaches, especially those heavily reliant on high-profile events. The move also highlights the impact of internal disputes and scandals on charitable organizations, prompting a reevaluation of governance and financial practices.

What's Next?

Sentebale plans to implement cost-cutting measures, including closing its London office, to achieve long-term financial stability. The charity has already secured a significant portion of its funding goals for the next year, indicating a proactive approach to financial management. As Sentebale distances itself from polo events, it may explore alternative fundraising strategies to ensure continued support for its programs. The charity's future actions will likely focus on strengthening its donor base and enhancing transparency in its operations.