You might not even think about it when giving money to the fundraisers or the car wash and other fundraising activities you might encounter. While you can consider most school fundraisers to be safe, there are many charitable organizations that can from a less than legitimate background. But, what kinds of things can you look for when choosing an organization in which to invest your money and possibly your time?
Major disasters tend to bring out people’s sympathy, compassion and checkbook. Scam artists have been known to set up fake organizations with names very similar to real organizations that claim to be helping out in the disaster relief effort. If you are going to give to a newly created organization then make sure you do some research. If new organizations are cropping up they may not be very well-managed and your money may not be well spent. Instead, choose a charity that has a track record with relief efforts.
Additionally, you can find charities that are willing to tell you how your money is going to be spent. Good charities should also let you know when enough money has been received in a certain area and how they are redirecting any additional funds. Don’t be dismayed if the organization says they have received enough for the current disaster relief, they are always building a reserve fund and the money you send might be helpful for the next relief effort.
You can check online to find out if a charity is registered with the IRS. You could also check with your state’s local attorney general. Don’t be afraid to ask them questions either. You should feel that you can call any organization and ask questions regarding the work they are doing, the money they are raising and they way the business is run.
Find out how the charity handles expenses. You would be quite disappointed if your entire check went to pay for the CEO’s salary. An efficient charity should be spending at least 65% of their funds on the cause they are supporting.
Volunteering can also be a great way to give to an organization. If you can’t give your money then give your time. Helping out during a disaster can be a very rewarding way to help people and to make an impact on the world around you. Along with charities, you may find organizations such as local churches doing relief work. Get involved and you will find out how impactful it can be. This might also be a great way to check out how an organization is run. You can see firsthand the work they are doing and how they are doing it.
It is quite disappointing that some would prey on people’s generosity with charitable organizations to steal money. It is essential that, especially if you don’t know the organization, you do the research necessary to establish if they are a reputable and legitimate charity. Don’t stop giving because you are afraid and don’t know who you can trust. A small amount of time of the internet and possibly a few phone calls and you will know exactly where you money should go. When in doubt, choose charities that you know.
