While most charities keep good records of the cumulative value of a donor’s gifts, a growing number of charities are recognizing the added value of engaging donors as part of their outreach activities. In a previous blog, I addressed the significant role that volunteering has in philanthropy. But, engagement can be much more diverse than volunteer opportunities. It can take the form of providing an opportunity to exchange views on websites, informing supporters about relevant lectures or presentations in their area and other outreach activities that help bring more attention to the importance of the charity’s cause.

As part of our Building Trust Video Series we are pleased to provide a video that features Collin O’Mara, President & CEO of the National Wildlife Federation (a BBB Accredited Charity).  As you will see in Collin’s video interview, the National Wildlife Federation understands the importance of public outreach in seeking to get children and families more connected with nature, wildlife and the outdoors. For example. their well-known Ranger Rick educational program is geared to engaging youth in environmental issues. This success provides an important lesson beyond just environmental causes and shows how interactions between donors and charities can be more than just a donation – it can be a learning experience and a chance to build stronger bonds between organizations and supporters.

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: 

• Born Free USA
• Make-A-Wish Foundation of America
• PRASAD Project 

Finally, remember to let us know by going to https://give.org/ask-us-about-a-charity1/ if you are interested in seeing a report on a charity not on the list and we will do our best to produce one.  

H. Art Taylor, President & CEO
BBB Wise Giving Alliance