Charity Suggestion??

[Allan_L (Allan)]

Originally Posted by that_guy

Wow great replies haha... I'm looking at mostly to help third world countries, Fred hollows sounds good, but I'm leaning towards helping them withbfood and medical supplies and children education..

as mentioned earlier --> check out Oxfam

[acropolite (Phil)]

The others are correct when they say you get bombarded with phone calls once a charity gets your contact info.

I too had that experience and have stopped all donations for that reason. The minute I told one charity I was no longer donating due to the ongoing harassment the calls stopped.

Another thing to be aware of is that much of the money going to charities ends up being swallowed up by the organization collecting the funds, i.e. very few charities actually collect money themselves. I've heard figures as high as 80% being absorbed in the collection agency with only 20% reaching the end charity. I'm not saying don't donate, but be aware of the pitfalls.

It's a shame that in this day and age one can't show some generosity without being continually hardware as a consequence.

[multiweb (Marc)]

Originally Posted by acropolite

I've heard figures as high as 80% being absorbed in the collection agency with only 20% reaching the end charity. I'm not saying don't donate, but be aware of the pitfalls.

Yep - seen that first hand having indirectly worked with many. I don't know how people can be ok with that. I'm not. Quite shocking actually. Seems charities are becoming big businesses these days. Very publicly blowing their horn too. I think charity starts with caring. No need to shout it all loud. Just do it directly for someone who really can do with some help. One on one. No more no less.

[Inmykombi (Geoff)]

Being actively involved with Surf Luifesaving Australia for the last 10 year I would have to say donate it to your local club.
If you dont live near the coast, maybe donate to one of the Helicopter services who always need funding for the marvelous service they provide for everyone.

Cheers and thanks for a great idea.