Donation

Christmas time is here!

Be generous, but cautious!!

There are many ways to help people in need during the Holiday Season: money, food donations, volunteer work, etc. If you are making a donation, be vigilant as to where your money is really going. Unfortunately, there are con artists who pretend to be raising money for charity, but keep donations for their personal gain. They may contact you by mail, e-mail, telephone or in person. Once a donation has been made, there is usually nothing you can do to get it back. Before making any donation, be careful!

picture by gruntzooki on flickr

Ask before you give

• Can I get a tax receipt?
• What is your charitable registration number?
• How much of my donation goes directly to helping others?
• How much goes for administration and fundraising costs?
• Can you mail me more information before I donate?
• Check facts. Reject vague answers

Beware of…

• High-pressure solicitors who want you to contribute immediately
• Names that sound like well-known charities. Many con artists use copycat names
• Never give out personal information

Planned giving

Take a little time to think about how you would like to help others. Remember that you can help the less-fortunate otherwise than by giving money. For example, giving a few hours of your time to a neighbourhood organization is a good way to help improve the quality of life within your community.