Don’t get swindled during the season of giving
Total charitable giving in the United States came to $241 billion in 2002, or about 1 percent more than in 2001. That’s not so bad given the slow economy and taking into account the many unscrupulous solicitations which end up benefiting only Mr. Greedy rather than the needy.
The holidays are the time of the year when your mailbox is crammed with appeals from charities and telephone soliciting is at its peak. It may be confusing and even a little annoying, but charities have a good reason to make their appeal blitz in December. Half of the donations from individuals to charities are made at the end of the year.
Nonprofit experts are not sure exactly why we wait to contribute. Many donations may be motivated either by the good feelings that come with the holidays or from a sense of gratitude over the donor’s good fortune. No matter what the reason, Middle Tennessee donors will lay out lots of money to charity during the month of December. Here’s how to give with your head as well as your heart:
• DO NOT succumb to pressure to make an immediate donation. A legitimate charity that wants your donation will welcome it just as much tomorrow or next week.
• DO NOT give your credit card number, bank account number or other personal financial information to unknown solicitors. If you want to contribute, mail a check to the organization’s address after you confirm the charity’s home address.
• DO NOT respond to emotional appeals that bring tears to your eyes, but tell you nothing about how the charity will use your donation. With the war in Iraq and many soldiers away from home and family, you can count on con artists using this appeal to line their pockets.
•?DO NOT hesitate to ask for more information in writing if you are unfamiliar with an organization. Legitimate charities will be happy to provide you with written information about their programs and use of funds solicited.
• DO NOT let similar-sounding names of soliciting charities fool you. In view of the volume of charities, more than 850,000 organizations have charitable tax-exempt status from the Internal Revenue Service, there are many raising money for the same cause. Unfortunately, some names are used as a way to confuse potential donors. A good example, the National Diabetes Association is NOT the American Diabetes Association.
•?DO NOT give just because the solicitor says police or firefighters are involved. For advice on police and firefighter organizations, go to www.give.org/tips/
policefire.asp.
If you find yourself short on cash, but still in the giving spirit, you can still make a difference and support your favorite charity. Here’s a few alternative ways to give:
• DO volunteer for your favorite organization. Many charities need your time and talents just as much as they need your money.
• DO organize an effort in your neighborhood, office or church to support a local charity. By pooling contributions with those of your neighbors and co-workers, you can make a more sizable donation.
• DO donate food items, such as canned goods, or assist with organized food drives in your community. To find out where help is needed most, contact the Salvation Army or other social service agencies.
• DO give, but give wisely. The majority of charities are doing a great job and deserve your support. Every dollar given to a dishonest or poorly run organization is doubly lost, first to the contributor and second to a deserving charity.
For more information, contact the Better Business Bureau at www.give.org or Tennessee Charitable Solicitations at 615-741-2555.