Where is your donation going?

With all of the recent disasters affecting so many people I'd like to offer a little advice about donations. People who want to donate their money should be aware that some of those organizations use professionals or professional fund raising companies to solicit your money. The problem is that they take a piece of your donation. (they are professional so they need to get paid somehow.) Some companies take as much as 50% or more (85% is not uncommon) as a "fee" to the organization. Sometimes that is ok but it depends on your preference. So how do you find out? Ask the solicitor if they are a professional fundraiser. They must disclose that information when asked. Personally I always ask when solicited. I don't donate to professionals. I want as much of my money to go where it is needed the most.