December 20, 2012

Year-end giving tips

With a bit of planning, you can help ensure your 2012 tax-deductible charitable donations go to worthy causes.

Larry Probus, World Vision’s chief financial officer, shares these tips for choosing a charity:

1. Consider a charity’s record.

Experience and innovation matter when tackling difficult problems. Look for a local or global leader in those efforts.

2. Look beyond overhead.

Effectiveness is even more important than efficiency. Identify fiscally responsible charities, and pick those that can show how donations are making a difference.

3. Ask questions.

Don’t write the check until you have enough information. Visit the charity’s website, send an email, or pick up the phone.

5. See what others are saying.

Social media gives voice to fans and critics. Check out charities’ Facebook pages, Twitter feeds, and blogs.

5. Watch for scams.

As giving climbs at the end of the year, so do scams. Be wary of emails that ask for your credit card or other personal information. When in doubt, check it out.

Learn more

We recommended these sources for more information:

>>Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability

>>Better Business Bureau

>>Charity Navigator

How you can help

Consider making a year-end gift to World Vision to help vulnerable children and families in greatest need. Your donation will help provide life-saving interventions where most needed, such as food aid, clean water, emergency relief, medicine, clothing, and more.