Now is the time of year to consider gifts to non-profit organizations if you want the benefit of the tax deduction for the 2014 tax year. The last day to give is December 31st. Consider the local food pantry, homeless shelter, religious institution, animal shelters and others. If you have a passion and a cause, then you may want to search for the perfect charity for you. Check out www.charitynavigator.org and www.guidestar.org to get more information about the not-for-profits that might be of interest for you.
Consider if the organization is growing and serving more people, reaching its goals, and making a difference in the community. When looking at the financial side of things, use the following guidelines to evaluate how the organization is managed: 75% spent on programs or the mission of the organization, 15% on administration and 10% on fundraising. Groups much outside these guidelines may not be making the best use of your funds, so ask questions, look at their website, or make a site visit to see how they work.
Beware of responding to a sob story from a telephone solicitor, since you really don't know who they are. Do not give out your credit card information, address, or any other private information over the phone. Phishing emails asking for funds are also circulating at this time of year, hoping to pull at your heart strings, so resist the temptation to give your information to a stranger.
Enjoy the season! Find the charity that interests you and fills your heart with joy! Give to help others and your community. God Bless You All!
Consider if the organization is growing and serving more people, reaching its goals, and making a difference in the community. When looking at the financial side of things, use the following guidelines to evaluate how the organization is managed: 75% spent on programs or the mission of the organization, 15% on administration and 10% on fundraising. Groups much outside these guidelines may not be making the best use of your funds, so ask questions, look at their website, or make a site visit to see how they work.
Beware of responding to a sob story from a telephone solicitor, since you really don't know who they are. Do not give out your credit card information, address, or any other private information over the phone. Phishing emails asking for funds are also circulating at this time of year, hoping to pull at your heart strings, so resist the temptation to give your information to a stranger.
Enjoy the season! Find the charity that interests you and fills your heart with joy! Give to help others and your community. God Bless You All!
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