Charities crank up the pressure

I just got home from a Charleston Artists Guild meeting.  Our treasurer reported the amount of money donated by our members for a new schiolarship.  He also reported the recipient was so excited because now they could use it for art school.  I think it is wonderful when like-minded people get together to support this type of effort.

On the whole, I am all for giving to charities so that others less fortunate can benefit.  My problem is that there seems to be no let up for most of the year.  Leading up to the holidays, many of us are in a giving spirit and have specific charities to which we donate.  One of our's is the Good Cheer Fund throuth the Post and Courier.  We also have a number of other organizations we support whether it be the Red Cross, Wounded Warrier, Charleston United Way, Charleston Food Bank, etc. 

This evening I read about the 5k run for the Charleston Nine being cancelled.  I was surprised in a way but can understand that they were going to be just one of 21 charity running events between now and July.

This time of year we get one call after another from alumni associations looking for donations as well as organizations that call to thank us for our support and ask again for another donation.

I have a bad habit of going to the grocery store numerous times a week.  Every time I go I am asked if I want to give to Jerry's Kids, The March of Dimes, and so on.

I know the need is great but it seems like there has to be a better way to do this.  We have a nucleus of organizations we give to and I believe we are generous.  I further believe businesses that collect for these organizations are doing a noble thing especially if they match the money they get from you and me.  Maybe I am a suspicious type but sometimes I get the feeling that they are taking credit for money we donate.  It would be different if they would just give $1 for every 10 or 100 that we spend at their stores.

It is an uncomfortable feeling to be asked to donate every time we go through the line at a store or bank.  I would love to be in a position to give every time I am asked but unfortunately that is not the case.  I know it is ultimately for a good cause.  I am concerned for the people on a limited income who feel pressured to give each time.

I know that I am not the only person who feels this way.  Am I wrong to feel this way?  How do you feel about stores asking for donations?  I would like to hear what you think.  Please send me your comments.

Michael Kaynard is a local photographer whoi lives in West Ashley.  You can view his photos at http://kaynardphotography.webs.com.  He can be reached at mkaynard@gmail.com or 843-412-2299.