But the generosity of season is not just important to the retail world; it is also a very important time for charities. The next couple of months will mark the greatest influx of donations than most nonprofit organizations will see for the rest of the year. However over the past few years, there has been growing concern about just how some organizations might be using that money. Concern over just how much money reaches those in need has caused many people to be more cautious and knowledgeable about just who they decided to direct their check to.
While most of the media attention about spending controversies has been directed toward human based charities, people who choose to donate to animal related organizations should be just as cautious.
So this month, I would like to take the time to make a brief commentary about things you can do to make sure your money goes just where you want it to.
1.) Don't go on impulse. This idea goes for all charities, not just animal related ones. Every year, my mailbox is over run with envelopes soliciting donations. I'm sure you've seen them, too. Often times, inside you will find heart tugging pictures or horrible stories of animals rescued from tortuous situations. These are designed to illicit a strong emotional response, and they are usually successful in doing just that. They can be so persuasive that it is difficult not to whip out your checkbook on the spot.
I am not trying to imply that there is anything wrong or nefarious about organizations that send these solicitations. No, not by any means. In fact, direct mailing is a marketing technique that many reputable charities use. All I am saying is don't base your decision to give entirely on your mailbox.
2.) Get knowledgeable. If you find a charity that you consider donating to, find out more about it. Don't take all of your information about them from what they mail you, do a little research of your own. If you think that research sounds a little time consuming, especially in this busy time of year, then keep in mind that if you are reading this then you have one the greatest research tools on the planet at your finger tips - your computer. It's amazing all of the information you can quickly find just by simply feeding a name into a search engine.
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