Charities Review Council - Giving During Back to School Time

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Giving During Back to School Time

It is hard to believe but the summer has flown by. It’s almost time for kids to go back to school. Faced with the skyrocketing cost of food and gas, some families may find themselves too strapped for cash to afford basic school supplies for their kids.

As you shop for school supplies for your kids, consider investing in the future of our youth by making a charitable donation or purchasing school supplies to help families in need. Now, more than ever, these families need your help.

Here is an easy guide to help you give smart so that your donation makes the greatest difference.

Research the organization

Before making the decision to donate, ask yourself “Do I feel confident in the organization? Am I certain that I support how they will use my money?” You can learn more about charities, their mission, programs, management and the issues they address at our online searchable Giving Guide. You can search for charities by name or type, such as education.

Ask the charity about specific results and accomplishments

What outcomes has this organization seen through its work? Check its Web site or ask the organization about specific results and accomplishments.

Ask how your contributions will be used

Find out what types of programs the funds raised will support. Inquire about the geographic location of the program services and activities.

Check to see if the Council has reviewed the organization

Ask the charity if it has demonstrated its integrity to the public by participating in a charity review through the Council's Accountability Wizard. A review measures an organization's performance in four critical areas: Public Disclosure, Governance, Financial Activity and Fundraising. Reviews are based on adherence to the Council’s Accountability Standards for charities. A list of reviewed charities is available at our online Giving Guide.

If a charity that interests you has not been reviewed, ask them to sign up for a review with the Council’s Accountability Wizard. By inviting charities to demonstrate transparency through a review, you are letting them know that it’s important to run their programs well and that you care about how they’re managed. You can invite charities for a review through your My Smart Giver account.

Look for the Meets Standards seal

Organizations that have met standards through the Accountability Wizard reviews are granted the use of the Meets Standards seal. The seal is a clear, concise and accessible indicator of the organization's continued commitment towards accountable and ethical practices.

Protect yourself

Avoid clicking on an e-mail link asking for your confidential information such as passwords, credit card numbers or bank account numbers. Do not provide personal information unless you know the charity and you initiate the contact. Anyone could call you and claim to be representing your favorite charity. Pay by check or credit card whenever possible. Cash can be lost or stolen. Make your check payable to the official and full name of the charitable organization.

For additional resources on smart and safe giving, visit the Council online at www.SmartGivers.org or call (651) 224-7030/800-733-GIVE.