The holiday season is in full swing and many of us have begun receiving donation requests from nonprofits for much needed funding, volunteering or in-kind contributions. These requests for support come in our mail, over the phone, through email, from friends and family on social media and sometimes from volunteers on the street. There are many reputable organizations that need your help however it can be difficult to decide which nonprofits you should support. Here are United Way’s 5 Tips to Make Your Donation Effective.
1. Have Clear Goals
What is the goal of the charity asking for your support? Is it well intentioned but broad or is it focused with a history of meeting set targets? Many charities are well intended however it is important to find out how specific their goals are and their history of effectiveness.
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2. Make a Personal Connection
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There are many charities doing great work in your community however you only have so much support you can give. One way to focus your options is to find an organization that interests you and that may appeal to your willingness to volunteer. Shared interest can help you feel more connected to their goal and help you advocate for your new cause.
3. Make No Blind Dates
Before you part with your hard earned dollars, bags of winter clothes or hours of free time it is important to get to know charities. Nonprofits should welcome your questions and provide you with answers so that you can decide if you want to support them. Many nonprofits even have community relations staff members to answer questions from residents. Only donate if you feel comfortable with an organization after you have satisfied your own curiosity.
4. Spend Time Together
Sometimes the best way to find out about a nonprofit is to volunteer (read United Way’s 5 Questions to Ask Yourself before Volunteering). Sharing your time with a charity in need of your skills can allow you to step behind the scenes before making a decision to provide long-term support.
5. Stay Curious
Never stop asking questions. The more informed you are about an issue the more questions you may have. Stay up to date on programmatic changes, new initiatives, key staff turnover and financial judgment.
(Courtesy United Way of Massachusetts Bay.)
