Scammers Have Impersonated Dollywood Foundation

Fraudulent websites are soliciting unauthorized donations under the name of the late Dolly Parton's charity.

Updated on Oct. 1, 2026 in Philanthropy

Bold flat-color editorial illustration showing a fractured geometric path in deep red and cream, representing the nature of digital charitable fraud. — The Dollywood Foundation has warned that scammers are operating fraudulent websites to solicit unauthorized donations intended for the Imagination Library program. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Scammers have created deceptive websites mimicking the Dollywood Foundation to misappropriate charitable donations. The organization confirmed that these fake sites are being promoted through social media, email, and text messages.

Why it matters

The fraudulent activity targets donors looking to support the Imagination Library, a literacy initiative that was managed by the late Dolly Parton.

ImaginationLibrary.com is the only authorized platform for donations. The foundation operates to promote children's literacy, but scammers have created multiple imitator websites to intercept funds.

The players

Dollywood Foundation

This organization promotes children's literacy and manages the Imagination Library.

Dolly Parton

She was a legendary entertainer and philanthropist who founded the Dollywood Foundation before her death in 2026.

The details

Fraudsters are actively distributing links to these imitation sites via emails, text messages, and various social media platforms. These campaigns are designed to deceive the public into sending money meant for the Imagination Library, a program that continues to promote children's literacy.

October 1, 2026: Report on scam activity published.

Market Landscape

This development mirrors the FTC's reports on charitable solicitation fraud by exploiting trust in established philanthropic brands. It illustrates the ongoing struggle for nonprofits to protect their intellectual property and brand reputation from digital impersonators.

Potential donors should avoid clicking links in unsolicited emails or texts and verify the destination URL before contributing funds. You should only use the official donation portal to ensure your gift reaches the intended charity.

The takeaway

Always double-check the web address for any charity before providing your credit card information or personal details. Legitimate organizations will rarely solicit donations through aggressive, unsolicited text messages or email links.