Ever wonder why some donation requests arrive with calendars, coins, or return address labels? These free gifts in charity appeals can catch a donor’s eye—but can often leave donors wondering whether a donation is expected.
Including small “free” items, such as address labels, greeting cards, or calendars, in fundraising appeals is a long-standing and common practice. These enclosures are often intended to capture attention and introduce a charity’s mission.
For donors, these items can be a way to show pride in a cause they support and help raise awareness among friends, family, and the broader community.
No. Receiving free items should never make you feel pressured or obligated to give. Charitable donations are voluntary, and unsolicited gift items do not create any obligation.
BBB Charity Standard 15 requires that solicitation and informational materials be accurate, truthful, and not misleading, and that they do not place undue pressure on recipients to donate.
For example, an appeal that includes a dollar and then asks you to return that “much-needed” dollar along with an additional donation may create unnecessary pressure and does not meet this Standard.
Below are a four tips for donors who receive fundraising appeals that include free items:
1) Remember there is no obligation
You did not order these items and are not required to pay for, donate in exchange for, or return them. You may keep or discard the items without giving, and doing so does not create any debt or responsibility.
2) Don’t let free items be the basis of your decision
Your decision to give should be based on the charity’s mission, effectiveness, and accountability, rather than a sense of obligation or gratitude for receiving a small item.
3) Be cautious with appeals that include money
Some appeals include coins or cash to draw attention. While this may prompt some people to donate, it can also create discomfort or guilt. If an appeal feels manipulative or wasteful, it’s okay to pause and decline.
4) Trust your instincts
If a solicitation makes you feel pressured, confused, or uneasy, that’s a sign to step back. Ethical fundraising should feel respectful, transparent, and empowering. Before you give, we encourage you to visit our list of charities that meet all 20 Standards for Charity Accountability.
Free items in fundraising appeals can raise awareness, but they should not override thoughtful giving.
Once you have found a charity that aligns with your values and meets your expectations for accountability, you can proudly wear that tote bag or use those labels to address your mail.
We are always working with charities to publish or update reports for donors. Visit Give.org or local BBBs to check out any charity before giving. Our recently evaluated charities include:
Finally, remember to let us know by going to give.org/charity-inquiry if you are interested in seeing a report on a charity not on the list and we will do our best to produce one.
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