Continued from page 1
The internet also provides some excellent resources for researching charities before you make contributions. Here are a few:
* Charity Navigator (http://www.charitynavigator.com/) -- Charity Navigator helps charitable givers make intelligent giving decisions by rating and providing information on over 3,100 charities. You can search their extensive charity database by category, region or keyword.
* Better Business Bureau Wise Giving Alliance (http://www.give.org/) -- This organization developed "Standards for Charity Accountability" to assist donors in making sound giving decisions. You can read their evaluations of charities based on their compliance with these voluntary standards.
* American Institute of Philanthropy (AIP) (http://www.charitywatch.org/) -- The AIP is a nationally prominent charity watchdog service whose purpose is to help donors make informed giving decisions. They produce
Charity Rating Guide and Watchdog Report, which provides information on approximately 500 national charities. At Charitywatch.org you will find a list of charities that receive highest ratings from AIP, as well as tips and hints for giving wisely.
Don't risk ruining your Christmas spirit by finding out charitable contribution you made went to an organization that spends your money unwisely or in a manner other than what was represented. By doing just a little homework, you can be confident that your donation is spent on people and causes you want to support.
Sherri Allen is the editor of SherriAllen.com, an online publication devoted to topics such as family, food, garden, house & home, and money. For great articles, information, tips, recipes, reviews and coloring pages, visit http://www.sherriallen.com/
