Though misunderstood at first, Doctors Without Borders’ bold decision to stop accepting tsunami-relief donation could help revive public trust in nonprofits.

By Paul Barbagallo

MSF’s assessment reflects a broader circumspection among relief agencies about honoring donor intent. To many, this emotional outpouring from donors calls to mind the controversy surrounding American Red Cross’ response to the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, when the organization planned to distribute funds raised to other programs not directly related to the New York City and Washington, D.C., relief efforts.