Funding and planning for the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence fell largely to two nonprofits with similar names: America250 and Freedom 250.

That similarity has sowed a lot of confusion over who was in charge of which celebrations. And according to a report House Democrats released on July 2, 2026, one of the groups, Freedom 250, has allegedly engaged in some fraudulent fundraising practices that took advantage of that confusion.

A Freedom 250 spokesperson, Danielle Alvarez, has denied the allegations. But the allegations have piqued my interest because I’m an accounting professor who researches charitable fraud.

America250 is a bipartisan initiative established by Congress in the Semiquincentennial Commission Act of 2016 to encourage nationwide participation in 250th anniversary events. Because it’s a charitable nonprofit with 501(c)(3) status, that organization does not have to pay any taxes, and its donors may be able to deduct their gifts from their taxable income.

America250’s stated mission is to “inspire our fellow Americans to reflect on our past, strengthen our love of country, and renew our commitment to the ideals of democracy through programs that educate, engage, and unite us as a nation.”

It has hosted several major events, including the American Block Party events held July 3-4, 2026, in Los Angeles, New York City, Philadelphia, Boston and other cities. Its funding comes from money appropriated by Congress, as well as donations from corporations and individuals.

American250’s events are ongoing and throughout the country – both in both Democratic- and Republican-leaning states.

Freedom 250 is much newer.

It was founded through an........

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