Americans are more aware of the needs of others than ever before. However, it has come to our attention that there are unscrupulous individuals who are taking advantage of American generosity and concern. Therefore, the Better Business Bureau, the Crime Prevention Association of Connecticut and People's Bank have joined together to alert potential donors against fraudulent appeals. Below are their suggestions for informed giving. For more detailed information on charitable giving, contact the Better Business Bureau Wise Giving Alliance at 1-703-276-0100 or their web site at www.give.org.

1. Do not send cash; make a contribution by check payable to the charity.
2. Keep records of your donations (receipts, canceled checks and bank statements). Note: "Tax Exempt" means the organization does not have to pay taxes. "Tax Deductible" means the donor may be able to deduct contributions to the organization.
3. Do not be fooled by names looking impressive or closely resembling names of well-known organizations.
4. To find out if the charity is registered as required by law, contact the State of Connecticut - Public Charities Unit (860-808-5030), a combined unit of the Office of the Attorney General and the Department of Consumer Protection.
5. Be wary of appeals that are long on emotion but short on what the charity will do to address needs.
6. Watch out for excessive pressure of on-the-spot donations. Be wary of any request to send a "runner" to pick up the contribution.
7. Do not give your credit card number, bank account number or any other personal financial information to any solicitor. Ask the caller to provide you with written information on the charity's programs and finances.
8. Find out what the charity intends to do with any excess contributions remaining after they have funded specific activities targeted.
9. Check with organizations before donating goods. If the charity accepts donated items, have they confirmed a need for these materials? How will they be shipped and distributed?
10. Ask reasonable questions such as: How much of your gift will be given directly to the appeal? How much will go toward administrative costs, other programs and fund raising costs?

Give with your mind, as well as your heart.

Information courtesy of

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