Give Selectively When ‘Charities’ Ring Bell

This time of year is traditionally marked by the spirit of generosity on the part of members of our community, many of whom will be making charitable contributions before the year is out. Unfortunately, some groups masquerading as legitimate organizations will try to take advantage of this generosity.

As president of the American Cancer Society’s Los Angeles Coastal Cities Unit, I am aware of incidents where local residents have been approached by groups claiming to raise money to fight cancer, even though the bulk of the donated funds are spent on administration and fund-raising. Potential donors should give selectively.

We offer the following tips to donors: Be wary of sweepstakes and free prizes attached to charitable appeals. Don’t make donations in cash. Request written information from any charity that is unfamiliar. Before giving determine whether the charity actually provides services in your community.

The American Cancer Society has a free brochure with these and other tips on how to determine whether a charity is legitimate. Readers are welcome to call our office at (310) 390-8766 for a copy. We also invite readers to contact the American Cancer Society about our free programs for cancer prevention and early detection, and our support services for patients and their families.

Wishing everyone a very happy and healthy holiday season,

ROBERT A. SWAN, CPA

Swan is chairman of the board of the American Cancer Society, Los Angeles Coastal Cities Unit .

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