This week, in an announcement that was very likely timed to get little attention, the American Red Cross suggested that it intended to reform itself – again.  This time, the emphasis will be on changes to the charity's board, reducing its number and diminishing the power of its chairman, in an effort to improve effectiveness.

During every American disaster of any proportion, Americans open their wallets to help, with millions upon millions going to the Red Cross.  Just as inevitably, there are major controversies over the relief efforts of the Red Cross, some dating back decades.  The latest have been over 9-ll and Hurricane Katrina relief activities.

Just as important, if not as dramatic or visible, is the Red Cross role in maintaining the country's blood supply, of which the Red Cross is responsible for almost half.  That responsibility has also been controversial for decades.  Most recently, in September, the FDA fined the Red Cross $4.3 million for not properly screening blood donors.  That record fine was additional to $5.7 million in cumulative fines for violating a 2003 consent decree to ensure blood safety.

Charity is one of the greatest attributes of the American psyche.  The Red Cross is one of the largest beneficiaries.  For it to do its job, it must itself be large, and size always, under the best of circumstances, increases the opportunity for abuse.

We are always skeptical of "reform," particularly when, as with the Red Cross, it is required so frequently.  If the charity of the American people is long, its tolerance for any who abuse that charity is not, nor should it be.

Changes to the federally chartered charity will require congressional approval, and all Americans can only hope that the process will be strenuous, far-reaching and transparent, as well as adequately reported by a media that sometimes seems reluctant to thoroughly report on the organization.