JD Vance to Close Charity and Donate $11K to Appalachia

J.D. Vance, a Republican Senate candidate, established two nonprofits in 2016 aimed at addressing critical issues in Ohio and other Rust Belt states, including job creation, mental health treatment, and the opioid crisis. However, his initiatives have faced significant criticism regarding their effectiveness and accomplishments. A spokesperson for the Trump campaign noted that a recent filing was necessary due to remaining funds in the foundation's account, but it did not indicate any plans to revive the organization's efforts. The first nonprofit, Our Ohio Renewal, was launched shortly after the release of Vance's memoir, "Hillbilly Elegy." Although the organization was designed to support political candidates, it never endorsed anyone, and its contributions were not tax-deductible. Vance aimed to raise $500,000 annually for the nonprofit's activities, but the group struggled to gain traction, partly due to the cancer diagnosis of a key organizer. From 2017 to 2023, the foundation reportedly raised and spent only about $69,000, with discrepancies noted in its annual financial reports. Additionally, Vance's charitable work has come under fire for its association with Dr. Sally Satel, who received funding for a residency in Ironton, Ohio. Concerns arose over her connections to the American Enterprise Institute and Purdue Pharma, the maker of OxyContin. Vance's campaign stated that he was unaware of Satel's ties to Purdue when she was selected, while Satel maintained that her research conclusions were independent.