Want to know how a charity spends its money but are afraid to ask? Don’t be.
Donors care about the community they live in. That’s why they participate in the CMC. So it only makes sense that they also want to know how their money will be spent.
Most agencies post financial information for donors on their websites. A list of CMC charities with links to their sites can be found at www.houstoncmc.org.
An informed donor makes smart choices. Here are some websites that will help you learn more about giving:
Federal Trade Commission
Provides information on wise giving and how to file a complaint.
www.ftc.gov/charityfraud
IRS
Search charitable organizations for tax information.
www.irs.gov
Charity Watch
Tips for giving wisely and other helpful hints.
www.charitywatch.org
GuideStar
Information on more than 1 million nonprofits. Also, important questions to ask yourself if you can’t decide on a charity.
www.guidestar.org
Charity Navigator
Evaluates the financial health of America’s largest charities.
www.charitynavigator.org
