Attention: TDR Forum Junkies 
rbattelle
TDR MEMBER
Don't know about the rest of the world but here in Ohio we have this "professional solicitor" who pesters people by calling and asking for donations to the "troopers coalition" or the "fireman's coalition". These coalitions are apparently legitimate charitable organizations that provide some kind of assistance to needy children. Now I consider myself fairly charitable, so I donated to these guys once. And only once.
They like to appeal to your heart with things like "well, sir, you want to help children, don't you?" And, "we're asking you to give just a small amount to help the troopers with their work. "
I was absolutely disgusted when one day I said "I'd really like to donate, but before I do could you please tell me what percentage of my money actually goes directly to the trooper's coalition?". Guess what the answer has ALWAYS been: 20% (sometimes less). 20 PERCENT! That's 20 cents of every dollar you donate to them that actually goes to the organization that's asking for the money! THAT IS SICK! In every case after I ask that question I say "wouldn't it be better if I just write them a check directly?" Without fail they shamefully say "yes, I suppose so, sir. Thank you and have a nice day. " Works like a charm.
I'm not bashing charities, people who donate to charities, or anyone with a kind generous heart. I'm just warning people to be very careful before donating via any "professional solicitor"... they're STEALING 80% or more of the money you donate and lining their pockets with it. You're always better off cutting a check directly to the charity.
ALWAYS ASK how much of your donation actually goes to the cause!!
-Ryan
They like to appeal to your heart with things like "well, sir, you want to help children, don't you?" And, "we're asking you to give just a small amount to help the troopers with their work. "
I was absolutely disgusted when one day I said "I'd really like to donate, but before I do could you please tell me what percentage of my money actually goes directly to the trooper's coalition?". Guess what the answer has ALWAYS been: 20% (sometimes less). 20 PERCENT! That's 20 cents of every dollar you donate to them that actually goes to the organization that's asking for the money! THAT IS SICK! In every case after I ask that question I say "wouldn't it be better if I just write them a check directly?" Without fail they shamefully say "yes, I suppose so, sir. Thank you and have a nice day. " Works like a charm.
I'm not bashing charities, people who donate to charities, or anyone with a kind generous heart. I'm just warning people to be very careful before donating via any "professional solicitor"... they're STEALING 80% or more of the money you donate and lining their pockets with it. You're always better off cutting a check directly to the charity.
ALWAYS ASK how much of your donation actually goes to the cause!!
-Ryan
