About WADSO

The West African Development Support Organization was developed in 2000 by a group of like minded persons interested in bettering the life of people in West Africa.  A desire to better conditions in this area of Africa was fostered by the parish priest at that time. Members have worked to increase the awareness in the United States about their projects and conditions in Africa.  Many partnerships have been developed over the years and continue to unfold.  In keeping with its mission, WADSO will support future projects in Nigeria and other West African countries which address health and education practices and promote effective conflict mediation.

Located in Fort Collins, Colorado, WADSO is a ministry of Blessed John XXIII Catholic Church and is an approved organization of the U.S. Catholic Conference of Bishops. WADSO is a tax-exempt organization through its relationship with the United States Catholic Conference of Bishops and the Archdiocese of Denver.  Under this umbrella, WADSO falls under the IRS’ Group Ruling policy which is described in the documents found in the links below. 

The IRS recognizes a group of organizations as tax-exempt if they are affiliated with a central organization. This avoids the need for each of the organizations to apply for re-exemption individually. A group exemption letter has the same effect as an individual exemption letter except that it applies to more than one organization. WADSO has been approved as an official Catholic organization and therefore participates in the Group Ruling of the U.S. Catholic Conference of Bishops.