Crime Prevention

Don't Be Taken When you Give to Charity!

How to avoid fraud and make the most of your donations. Believe it or not, some con-artists have the gall to run schemes that cheat generous Iowans who think they are giving to charities and good causes. Unfortunately, some donations never reach the people who need help. Some solicitations are outright scams and take all the funds contributed.

Others eat up so much of the money in "fund raising expenses" that virtually none is left for true charity. Questionable charities cheat donors, shortchange people who truly need help, and hurt legitimate charitable organizations that rely on donations.

Follow these tips to protect yourself against charity fraud:

• Give directly to a know charity of your choice. That's always the best option. Check your telephone directory for a charity's local office and contact the office.

• Don't be fooled by "look-alike" names. Some scams use names that sound impressive and are designed to resemble well-respected organizations.

• Ask phone solicitors to send written information. Check out the charity before you make a decision. Be suspicious if they refuse to send solid information.

• Ask questions. A reputable charity will welcome them. Ask how much of your donation actually goes for the charitable purpose. Ask if the caller will be paid a commission. Don't trust a charity that won't give you the facts.

• Don't give credit card or checking account numbers over the phone to someone you don't know!

• Be skeptical of sweepstakes mailings that ask for a charitable donation. A donation does NOT increase your chances of winning (which are very, very small, by the way!) By law, sweepstakes may not require you to make a donation.

For a free brochure, Charitable Donations: A Consumer's Guide to Giving Wisely, call the Iowa Chapter of the National Society of Fund Raising Executives: 515-270-9495. The information was produced by the NSFRE and the Attorney General's Office.

There are many fine charities soliciting contributions in Iowa, and the Attorney General's Office is eager to stop scams and uphold the integrity of our system of giving. If you think you may have been cheated by a fund raising scheme, write to: