Donating During Wildfire Season Means Doing Your Research

With many giving to various charities to help those that have been displaced and affected by the recent wildfires, the Better Business Bureau Northwest and Pacific is imploring people to do their research first.

Below is a list of tips from the BBB for those looking to donate to a worthy charity or organization.

LOOK FOR APPPEAL CLARITY. Seek out appeals that are upfront and clear about what disaster relief services you are supporting.

GIVE TO EXPERIENCED GROUPS. Support experienced organizations that stand ready to provide quick and effective assistance. Be cautious of organizations that form overnight in the wake of a disaster.

BE WARY OF 100 PERCENT CLAIMS. Watch out for claims that 100 percent of donations will assist relief victims. The organization is probably still incurring administrative and fundraising expenses, even if it is using other funds to cover these costs.

GIVE MONEY RATHER THAN GOODS.  Donating money is the quickest way to help and provides charities the flexibility to channel resources to impacted areas.

RELY ON EXPERT OPINION. Rely on expert opinion when it comes to evaluating a charity. We recommend giving to charities that meet all 20 BBB Standards for Charity Accountability, found at BBB’s Give.org.

UNDERSTAND CROWDFUNDING. If engaging in crowdfunding, give to someone you know and trust, and review the platform’s policies and procedures. Keep in mind that some crowdfunding sites do very little vetting of individuals who decide to post for assistance after a disaster.

IDENTIFY CELEBRITY FUNDRAISING PLANS. Before donating to a celebrity’s fundraising effort, look beyond their fame. See if they identify plans for intended use of funds or whether they are collaborating with a well-established charity

To find out more about charities you can trust go to www.give.org.