Wednesday, November 23, 2005

ConsumerReports.org - Charity watchdogs 12/05

ConsumerReports.org - Charity watchdogs 12/05: "
December 2005 send to a friend printable version
How to make your donations really count
Home in on charities that don't waste--or steal--your money
You're inspired to help out, but where should you send your donations? That's been a question weighing heavily on a lot of people's minds, especially after last year's Asian tsunami disaster, the summer's Gulf Coast hurricanes, and the earthquake in Pakistan. During many crises, scam charities quickly pop up to prey on people's big hearts and open pockets.

Warnings about bogus charities have added to the importance of finding which nonprofit organizations deserve your support. Sure, the American Red Cross is for real, but is it more efficient at delivering aid than, say, Catholic Charities? Even if you take the time to check with state and federal agencies to make sure a charity is registered and qualifies for a tax exemption, that's no guarantee the group is feeding needy children or saving the manatee. "

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