What do you think about organized charity?

Question

Personally, I'd rather give to people who I know are in need, rather than donate to organized charity. At least then I know that all proceeds are going to the recipient, without some organization skimming off of the top.

Answer 1

Here's another reason that I'm dis-allusioned with organized charities. When you get a phone call from telemarketers, they're just using the 'charity' to pay for the FOR PROFIT telemarketing company.

California has a break down of what actually goes to the the charity themselves. It typically might be 30%

http://ag.ca.gov/charities/publications/cfrsupreport.pdf

Every other year, - I read the one from Vermont.

PS.. one of the entries shows the telemarketer bringing in 201k, and forwarding only $2,000 to the charity.... ouch!!!

Answer 2

Most organized charitites do not "skim off the top." No one working at such places is there to make a profit or take money away from those who need it. But any organization needs at least some money for administrative costs to keep the organization working effectively. A well-run organization keeps these costs under 10% - more than 12% means they need new leadership. A few well-managed and well-funded charities actually operate at 0% - they have a separate investment fund that supplies their administrative costs, so every penny you donate goes to the people in need.
Check the website of the charity - this should have a section that discloses exactly how their funds are spent. Or try to the website below for an objective analysis of many charities.
It's great to help people you know, because you know exactly what their needs are and can see how it helps them. But don't give up on organized charities - they can stretch your dollar in amazing ways.

Answer 3

There are ways to find out how much money the charity is giving away. A good charity will usually be listed under the Better Business Bureau. For exmaple, I would donate to the Make a Wish Foundation or the Save the Children Foundation, because they are under the BBB. And I have heard good things about them from other people.

Answer 4

I am very in favour of legitimate organized charities. The large, well established groups and more trustworthy local groups all have built in safeguards against skimming, so all the proceeds are directed appropriately according to the organizational breakdown provided to the public.

I'm heavy into accountability, and I am also a horrificly cynical person, so I like to know that the money I give is being used charitably and efficiently.

Answer 5

I learned about that skimming only in recent years. Sad isn't it, that good honest upright citizens give their money to these organization and the top cats are having slap up meals in luxurious hotel with that money. Of course they say it is to raise more money - where are their morals for chrissakes!

Answer 6

I agree. That's why I don't go to the United Way campaigns at work. They always have representatives who wear the most expensive suits and drive the most expensive cars. They must get paid verrrrry well. Therefore it has to be for profit.

Answer 7

personal charity serves the person where as organised charity serves the cause in the larger and better way.

Answer 8

that is why my girl scouts troop wants to do craft booths and rummage sales. If we do the 2 fundraisers that the council holds a year we as a troop do not get that much for what we sell

Answer 9

should there be unorganized charities