You can read the charges and bases of the concerns expressed about Greg Mortenson's credibility. The quick version is the 60 Minutes report, which you can view on their website. The longer and more dispassionate expose is written by Jon Krakauer, author of Into Thin Air and other investigations and contributor to the Central Asia Institute. Titled "Three Cups of Deceit", you can download it at www dot byliner dot com.

I just finished reading it and I feel deeply troubled by the charges - which seem to me to be irrefutable. It would appear that, in spite of all that Greg has done for thousands of children in Pakistan and Afghanistan, he has betrayed many of his friends and colleagues, enriched himself at the expense of the thousands of children and adults who have donated to the Central Asia Institute, and broken just about every rule of ethics, integrity, transparency and accountability that we (and the law) expect from nonprofit tax exempt organizations and their officers, possibly staining the credibility of other humanitarian efforts. Worst of all, he appears to have betrayed many of his beneficiaries. From my perspective as a lifelong participant in and leader of nonprofit efforts that is the one unforgivable crime.

For a person dedicated to humanitarian work it is difficult to deal with betrayal by the charismatic leaders who often inspire that work. But the work must go on. The Central Asia Institute needs to rescue the good work it has done. To do that it must shed the questionable practices that have brought it to this pass. I hope it is successful in doing this, so the children who worked so hard for Pennies for Peace and other programs can overcome any feelings of personal betrayal they may have, and grow up to continue their support for critical humanitarian enterprises.

I became a Mortenson "groupie" last year. Read Three Cups of Tea, met Greg at the American Montessori Society Conference in New Orleans, sponsored a Pennies for Peace fundraiser, downloaded the curriculum for all 50 teachers at our school (not so green, but worth it because they USED it!) and purchased a copy of Three Cups of Tea or Listen to the Wind for every classroom, PK3 - 6th grade and initiated an online chat with our Assistant Principal's brother in law, who was stationed in Afghanistan at the time. This was an amazing experience and our students were captivated by the stories, the lessons provided and the amazing images available on the Pennies for Peace website.
Now I am reading Stones into Schools. Thought there was NO WAY he could share as many wonderful stories again. Cannot believe it, but I think I like Stones into Schools EVEN BETTER than Three Cups!
We are so inspired by Greg Mortenson's selfless acts and diligent humanitarianism.
No Santa Claus? Thank God he will live forever in the hearts of children...

We are currently using Mr. Mortenson's book Three Cups of Tea to read and discuss with all of our students from Grade 1 - 9. They have enjoyed the adventures of Dr. Greg.

You have an ability to capture the imagination of people with your great work

Thank you

Mr. Mortenson,

I am sure I speak for all Pakistanis around the world when I say thank you so much for your work! You are an inspiration to all of us.

-Athar.

I think this is so wonderful that you are doing this Greg! You are an inspiration to me as an educator! You are amazing!!!!