> At a Glance
> – Travis Kelce won Nationwide’s Charity Challenge fan vote on Jan. 7
> – Tax filings showed 41¢ per dollar to charity from 2021-2024
> – Foundation commits $800K over 3 years, pushing charitable rate above 80%
> – Why it matters: Public support continues despite questions about past financial reporting
Travis Kelce’s charitable efforts are making headlines for both praise and scrutiny. The Chiefs tight end secured the Nationwide Charity Challenge fan vote while his foundation’s past tax filings face examination.
Record-Breaking Fan Support
Kelce, 36, became the only player to win the Charity Challenge every time he was nominated. The announcement came during the Jan. 7 episode of his New Heights podcast with brother Jason.
The victory means additional funding for 87 & Running, which supports underserved youth through education, mentorship, and entrepreneurship programs nationwide.
Financial Questions Surface
A Dec. 31 Arizona Republic review of tax filings revealed concerning numbers:
- 41 cents of every dollar went to charity (2021-2024)
- Management expenses exceeded charitable giving
- Business manager claims the filings were “incorrect”
A source close to Kelce tells News Of Los Angeles the 990 forms didn’t capture the full picture.
> “The 990 forms didn’t tell the full story,” the source said. “Over the foundation’s history, Travis has been its primary funder, and expenses supporting charitable programs were categorized under a single line item rather than properly itemized.”
Correcting the Record
The foundation has already updated its reporting methods. Additional details include:
- Kelce has personally funded most foundation expenses
- $800,000 committed to communities over the next three years
- When commitments are included, charitable rate exceeds 80%
- Reporting and operational changes have been implemented
Kelce remains one of 32 nominees for the Walter Payton Man of the Year Award, with the winner announced Feb. 6.
Key Takeaways
- Kelce won Nationwide’s Charity Challenge fan vote unanimously
- Past tax filings showed low charitable distribution percentages
- Foundation commits $800K over three years to improve impact
- Updated reporting shows over 80% now directed to charitable causes
The Chiefs nominated Kelce for the prestigious Man of the Year award after years of community work through his foundation.
