Milwaukee, Wis. – This Veterans Day, think of the needs of veterans, military service members, and/or their families. BBB Wise Giving Alliance offers some tips to help contributors make wise giving decisions about charities that address the community.
- Avoid Mistaken Identity. Some veterans’ charities include the same words in different order or slightly different form. So, be alert and make sure the organization you are considering is the one you want to support.
- Find Out What They Do. Don’t assume what the veterans’ organization does based on their name alone. Look for a clear description of the organization’s programs in its appeals and on its website.
- Ask How Donated Items Will Be Used. Find out how the charity benefits from the collection and resale of used clothing, cars and other in-kind donations. Sometimes the charity receives only a small portion of the resale price of the item or may have a contractual arrangement with a third-party to get a flat fee for each sale.
- Check Give.org. In addition to charity reports on BBB’s Give.org, check with your state government’s charity registration agency. In Wisconsin, it is a division of the Secretary of State’s office (WDFI.org).
For more giving advice and to access a list of BBB Accredited Charities (i.e., meets all 20 BBB Charity Standards) that address veterans and military service issues, see this link.
For an online version click here
