- By Matthew P. Binkewicz
- Around Town
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Lansing's Advice Column
Dear IMO,
I would like to make a sizeable donation for the relief efforts involved with Hurricane Katrina. After watching hours of TV and reading numerous articles in magazines, newspapers, and on the net, I’m concerned about how the money will be spent. I hear that New Orleans is “corrupt”, and I’m disappointed in the response of local, state and the federal governments. The Red Cross is an option, but I just heard that they have collected quite a sum already and have my doubts about the amount of my donation that will actually help those in need. It may sound petty, but I’m not sure that I trust many of these organizations. Do you know of any other charities or non-for-profits that might benefit from my gift?
I would like to make a sizeable donation for the relief efforts involved with Hurricane Katrina. After watching hours of TV and reading numerous articles in magazines, newspapers, and on the net, I’m concerned about how the money will be spent. I hear that New Orleans is “corrupt”, and I’m disappointed in the response of local, state and the federal governments. The Red Cross is an option, but I just heard that they have collected quite a sum already and have my doubts about the amount of my donation that will actually help those in need. It may sound petty, but I’m not sure that I trust many of these organizations. Do you know of any other charities or non-for-profits that might benefit from my gift?
Hopefully optimistic,
Greg
Dear Greg,
Your concern is a legitimate one. I too, have wondered just how much of my donation ever gets to those who need it most. Ultimately, you must put some faith in the organizations that are out on the front lines rescuing our fellow citizens and providing relief for the victims of Hurricane Katrina. If you really want to know how your donation will be used by any particular charity, go on line and find out what percentage goes for relief efforts and what percentage, if any, goes for salaries and overhead. Rather than making one large donation, you might want to split your gift among several charities. The Red Cross, Catholic Charities, CARE, animal rescue groups and shelters, and even school districts that have had to take in extra students are just some of the charities assisting the victims of Katrina. You may have read a story where a church or civic clubs have adopted families. Contact them and see what they need. Be aware that some of those “On-line” charities are bogus. Your donation, spread among several charities, may make a more profound difference in the lives of those in need.
If you want advice please email your question to IMO at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
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