Weird Question about Charities

[Maleficent13]

I have a problem with charities. Well, not so much charities, but which ones to give to. You wouldn't think this would be an issue, but I am a freak.

See, the charities I feel closest to are ones for literacy. I have made a few donations. Occasionally, I do Toys for Tots as well. But when I think about all the charities that exist, I start to feel guilty that I am not donating to the more "important" ones, like St. Jude's or to one of the cancer societies.

After all, they're saving lives. All the ones I donate to only teach people to read, or provide toys to disadvantaged kids. In the greater scheme of things, could I put my money to better use? For financial reasons, I have VERY little money to donate, so I would prefer to make one contribution for a substantial amount than spreading around a bunch of little ones.

I donated to a literacy cause last night, and that's why this thought is fresh today.

 

[CEDmom]

I think fighting illiteracy is a very important cause and one that's probably overlooked by many people. As long as you've checked a charity out and know it's legit I'd give to what is important to you. One of the charities DH and I give to is our local rescue squad and that's because volunteer squads have helped family members in the past and supporting them is important to us. Remember, the big charities get big $$ from corporations and wealthy donors. The little local ones aren't usually that fortunate.

 

[lovemygoofy]

I have such a bleeding heart that I would give to a light pole if it asked I"m sure. My dh is the same way though he would say he isn't. Every year we give a donation to the local police, state police, and fireman's family fund. We buy toys or put money for Toys 4 Tots or Little Soliders Porgram all year long (we don't have kids so it's easier and we have both been benefited from it). We used to give to St. Jude's but because they do get more corporate backing we have stopped though feel guilty. We also make small monthly donations to the American Red Cross at our army post and we give to army widow fund. Sometimes I think I could write my check away every month and not feel like I have gave enough.

However, literacy is very important. Just think, the funds you are sending to help people to learn to read could eventually find that person finding cure to cancer or something equally important.

 

[LadyyRedd]

After all, they're saving lives. All the ones I donate to only teach people to read, or provide toys to disadvantaged kids. In the greater scheme of things, could I put my money to better use? For financial reasons, I have VERY little money to donate, so I would prefer to make one contribution for a substantial amount than spreading around a bunch of little ones.

Think of it this way...the person who learns to read because of your donation, may be the person who finds the cure for Cancer (or any other illness). So I'd say you are doing a wonderful job putting your money to good use. :
Kimya

 

[meandtheguys2]

It is kind of weird, but I like the idea of people donating to the causes that most touch their heart. That way everything is kind of covered, IMO!

 

[kasar]

At least you're giving, right? There are plenty of people who don't.

I think literacy causes are wonderful and they usually go directly to the people that need it the most. Some of those big charities spend so much money on fundraising and administrative costs that, dollar for dollar, your local contribution may be doing much more. I always think that big charities like St. Judes and the United Way, as wonderful as they are, will always be fine because of all the corportate sponsors and people wanting to get on their "lists". It's the smaller, less well known charities that need everyone's help. You did a good thing, be proud.

 

[Mom2Ashli]

I have a problem with charities. Well, not so much charities, but which ones to give to. You wouldn't think this would be an issue, but I am a freak.

See, the charities I feel closest to are ones for literacy. I have made a few donations. Occasionally, I do Toys for Tots as well. But when I think about all the charities that exist, I start to feel guilty that I am not donating to the more "important" ones, like St. Jude's or to one of the cancer societies.

After all, they're saving lives. All the ones I donate to only teach people to read, or provide toys to disadvantaged kids. In the greater scheme of things, could I put my money to better use? For financial reasons, I have VERY little money to donate, so I would prefer to make one contribution for a substantial amount than spreading around a bunch of little ones.

I donated to a literacy cause last night, and that's why this thought is fresh today.

I think that is GREAT. I agree with the other poster who said it is possible that the person you teach to read with your donation is the future of this world.

I tend to give to things that are near and dear to my heart. My Father died of a Heart Attack and my Mother has had by-pass surgery. I do the American Heart walk and raise money for them. We do Toys for Tots (I love doing things for children in need). And the American Red Cross. And this year for the first time I am doing the Breast Cancer Walk. I normally do the ones that I have to work at so I feel like I am reaching a goal.