Lake Oswego, Ore. #GivingTuesday marks the official start of the holiday giving season, and Better Business Bureau wants to make sure donors give wisely.
“Every year, generous Oregonians open their hearts and wallets,” says Tyler Andrew, CEO of BBB serving Alaska, Oregon and Western Washington. “And sadly we see too many cases of donors being scammed in the process.”
As part of the National Day of Giving, BBB Wise Giving Alliance urges consumers to take action before donating.
Don’t be pressured. Take time when making a donation and avoid on-the-spot decisions. Reputable organizations will welcome a gift at any time.
Know the charity. Locate charities that meet specific needs and research how donations will be used. Visit bbb.org/charity before cutting a check or donating an item.
Watch for impostors. Beware of fly-by-night operations with names that are similar to legitimate charities.
Donate directly. When in doubt, check it out. Confirm the legitimacy of charities by contacting them directly, and avoid clicking on email links or giving in to phone solicitors.
Secure identities. Never share banking or credit card information with unknown or unexpected solicitors.
Search for local BBB Accredited Charities and Seal Holders at http://go.bbb.org/akorww-charitydirectory. Additionally, the Mobile Giving Foundation gives cell phone users safe opportunities to find trustworthy charities where they can make contributions via text message.
BBB congratulates charities, families, businesses, students and community centers around the world for their generosity during #GivingTuesday. For more holiday tips and information on how to give safely, visit BBB Scam Stopper and give.org.
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