Charitable non-profits are
dependent upon the contributions of individuals, businesses large and small,
and national/international corporations to fulfill their mission endeavors and
projects. Most are soliciting last
minute end of year gifts and contributions. But who can you trust to do what they say they are going to
do?
1. Curious . . . how much is contributed annually to charities
and who
gives the money? Nearly
one million tax
exempt non-profit charities . . . more than 350 billion
dollars was given last year in the United States to charities . . . 6%
from corporations and 94% by individuals . . . half of that was to religious
organizations.
2. What are some general tips you would suggest about
charitable giving? Do not give cash -- write a
check to the charity’s full official name, never
to the individual collecting the donation . . . Secure and keep receipts,
canceled checks, etc. -- IRS requires donations of $250 or more
to be substantiated with a written receipt.
3. What should a company or individual do before giving to a national
or international charity? Don’t be pressured to make
an immediate gift . . . ask for information on
its programs and finances . . . “investigate before your donate” -- check
out the organization with the “BBB Wise Giving Alliance” at www.give.org,
or the Better Business Bureau -- (409) 835-5348, 24
hours a days or online at www.bbb.org.