So… You Want To Help?

So many folks long to help people in need. It is commendable to have a generous heart. However there are many things to consider before helping people with money. Here are a few.

First, be sure you know how much of your giving will actually go to the needs you want to meet. Individual relationships are probably the best way to know where the money goes and whether it did the intended good. Church giving is also a good method. Charities and social government programs can be good.

But the problem with charities and government programs is that some of your money goes to the program not to the needs. The administration of programs, especially government programs can take a large amount of the money allocated. You should investigate how much is actually going to the stated needs.

Also, don’t unthinkingly support labels. If you say “I support education.” What does that mean, Which education? Public? Private? Politically correct? All “education” is not the same. Do you give to support “veterans”? Good! But be careful how you do it. Some “veterans charities” spend the bulk of the money on the charity not the veterans. The same is true of charities for “children”.

I AM NOT SAYING “DON’T GIVE.” Be wise. Make sure you are supporting what you really want to support. Keep a generous, compassionate heart. Just be wise as you share.