The Beverly Hills-based charity founded by Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, the Archewell Foundation, was considered “in good standing” by the state of California after clearing up a past due payment. The foundation can now resume raising money and operating in California. The charity confirmed that it had made the necessary payments promptly and in compliance with IRS procedures. Attorney General Rob Bonta’s office did not specify when the foundation was determined to be “current” with the state’s Registry of Charities and Fundraisers, but the issue has been resolved.
Speculation arose over why the Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s charity had seemingly failed to pay a $200 annual filing fee after a May 2023 expiration. Bonta issued a notice of delinquency to the foundation, citing incomplete renewal information. A source close to Archewell explained that an initial payment check was lost in the mail, but was resubmitted and the issue was expected to be resolved quickly. However, without more clarification from the office or Harry and Meghan themselves, understanding the situation may be challenging for royal family observers.
Governor Gavin Newsom addressed the coverage of the charity setback, reassuring that the Archewell Foundation was in compliance and that it was a technical paperwork issue that was exaggerated. CharityWatch, a watchdog group in Chicago, considers the foundation “not ratable” due to its recent establishment and lack of financial history. The Archewell Foundation is focused on uplifting and uniting communities through acts of compassion, inspired by the couple’s son Archie. However, the foundation’s governing body consisting of only Harry and Meghan raises concerns among experts, as the nonprofit sector typically requires a board with a majority of independent members.
Sarah Styron, an expert in the nonprofit sector, highlighted the importance of a board with multiple independent members to ensure the charity’s decisions are in the best interest of the public. Charities are intended to operate independently from the individuals running them, serving the public interest. The Archewell Foundation’s small and non-independent governing body may pose challenges in providing adequate oversight and ensuring decisions align with the charity’s mission. Despite this, the foundation has been cleared to continue its operations in California and engage in fundraising efforts.
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle stepped back from their royal duties in 2020 and have since focused on supporting causes they are passionate about, including wounded veterans. The couple’s charity work aims to bring attention to important issues and make a positive impact on communities. With the resolution of the payment issue and the Archewell Foundation back in compliance with the state, Harry and Meghan can continue their philanthropic efforts both locally and globally. The foundation’s core purpose of uplifting and uniting communities through compassion remains at the heart of their charitable initiatives, despite the recent administrative challenges.
