We are writing in response to your recent charity article (“Charitable empire has high costs”) to remind donors and the public that most charities are legitimate and ethical and do NOT operate in the manner described in that article.

The vast majority of the 82,000 registered charities in Canada work hard to advance their important causes. Unfortunately, there will always be a few organizations and individuals who seek to mislead the public for personal gain.

To make the best possible decisions in charitable giving:

• Take your time in making giving decisions and resist high-pressure appeals. The faster the sales pitch, the more you should just say no.
• Know the charity you are considering supporting. Ask the charity to send you a brochure or other published information. If the response is slow, reluctant or not forthcoming at all, consider a different charity.
• Before making a gift, offer to volunteer your time to promote the goals of the charity and to learn more about the organization and how it is run. If the response is less than enthusiastic, or you don’t like what you find, consider looking elsewhere to donate your time and money.
• Ask a telemarketer if he or she is working for a percentage of the funds raised, is paid a set salary or fee, or is a volunteer. If the telemarketer is taking a percentage of funds raised, hang up the phone. Percentage-based compensation is considered unethical.

Legitimate fundraisers and charities work to protect the interests of their donors and serve the public ethically. Documents such The Donor Bill of Rights and codes of ethics promulgated by the Association of Fundraising Professionals, Imagine Canada and other organizations highlight what is and isn’t acceptable for charities and fundraisers. By reviewing these documents at www.afpnet.org or www.imaginecanada.ca, you’ll be a more informed donor and you’ll be more confident about your charitable giving decisions.

And that’s critical, because it’s your gifts that drive philanthropy and make a difference in the lives of millions of people who need it the most.

Bill Hallett, ACFRE

Chair, Canada Council

Association of Fundraising Professionals