Wigs and Wishes Faces New Jersey Registration Issues

The nonprofit run by Gloucester County candidate Martino Cartier remains non-compliant with state charity registration laws.

Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Philanthropy

Isometric editorial illustration of a heavy brass administrative stamp, conveying the bureaucratic nature of state charity registration compliance. — The New Jersey Attorney General's Office has flagged the charity Wigs and Wishes for failing to maintain required state charitable registration filings. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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The New Jersey Attorney General's Office has flagged the charity Wigs and Wishes for failing to register with the state for three consecutive fiscal years. Founded by Gloucester County commissioner candidate Martino Cartier, the nonprofit did not file required paperwork despite raising over $72,000 in 2025.

Why it matters

State law mandates that charities collecting more than $10,000 in public contributions must register with the Division of Consumer Affairs. The organization's ongoing lack of compliance stems from a lack of dedicated administrative staff to manage required state filings.

New Jersey law requires charities raising over $10,000 to register with the Division of Consumer Affairs, with filing fees ranging from $30 to $250. Organizations failing to meet these obligations face additional late registration fines of $25.

The players

Martino Cartier

He is a Gloucester County commissioner candidate who founded and operates the Wigs and Wishes nonprofit organization based in Washington Township.

New Jersey Attorney General's Office

This state department oversees the Division of Consumer Affairs and enforces registration laws for charitable organizations operating within the state.

The details

Although Wigs and Wishes maintains federal 501c3 tax-exempt status, founder Martino Cartier failed to request necessary extensions for fiscal years 2023, 2024, and 2025. Following inquiries, Cartier attempted to upload registration documents into the state portal, but officials found the filing deficient.

The organization missed registration requirements for fiscal years 2023, 2024, and 2025.
Martino Cartier attempted a portal upload on Thursday, October 29, 2026.
The election for Gloucester County commissioner is scheduled for Tuesday, November 3, 2026.

Market Landscape

This situation reflects broader industry challenges where small nonprofits often lack the administrative infrastructure to navigate state-level regulatory requirements. It highlights the competitive and operational pressure on local organizations to balance grassroots charitable services with rigorous government reporting standards.

For residents and potential donors, this registration issue may raise questions regarding the transparency and administrative oversight of local charities. Those looking to verify the standing of an organization can typically check the state portal to ensure a group is in good standing before contributing.

The takeaway

Donors should routinely verify that the charities they support are currently registered and in compliance with state oversight agencies. Ensuring a nonprofit meets its regulatory filing requirements is a primary way for the public to gauge the operational health of an organization.