CHARITY BEGINS WITH THOSE YOU TRUST
Scam Artist Will Prey on Our Caring Hearts
Charities are popping up more frequent than ever before with the economy playing a big part as more folks become homeless, sick, or victims of tragedy. Hand outs are essential to the well being of millions throughout this world. Big money is needed to restore historical sites, research diseases, rebuild communities wiped out by storms, earthquakes or other natural disasters, and to take care of those in need. Our hearts go out to these charities.
People with caring hearts have become great prey for scam artist. Beware of who you are giving your hard earned dollars to. Never give out personal information about yourself to a charity you know nothing about. Even many of the legitimate charities will share this information to the public, especially phone numbers and mailing addresses. If you share this information with them expect your phone to be ringing off the hook and your mailbox to be flooded with people wanting a donation. You can still ease your mind that you were able to help these charities without becoming overwhelmed as to who you should donate to. Most legitimate solicitors will not call your number at random unless you have given it to them or another organization of their kind.
Charity Will Always be needed. Use Good Judgment as You Give.
As the majority of money donated to charity may still be from the rich, many of the world’s lower income families are more inclined to donate to a worthy cause. It is especially important to them as to the receiver of their gift. Sadly money for what we thought was a good cause may often end up in the hands of a bogus charity if we are unaware of its present. As the old saying goes, “Charity begins at home.” Perhaps by paying attention to our local organizations of charitable causes and to the top known charities of the world whom we know we can trust we can save ourselves and our intended recipients from becoming victims of these heartless scams.
Charity will always be needed. Most local churches, boy scouts, girl scouts, hospitals, schools, fire companies, law enforcement, veterans, animal shelters and clubhouses are reliable places to freely help out. Know your charity’s leaders or their helpers before contributing. Food and clothing is collected by many of these groups to give to those less fortunate. Some may have glass, plastic or aluminum can drives to assist in buying things for the needy. Volunteers are appreciated to help with the collection and for those unable to give money this gift is just as needed. As you open your hearts and your pocketbooks to the charity of your choice, your best option should be to use good judgment.
