There is an old Scottish proverb that says “What may be done at any time will be done at no time.”  Life is busy. Things to do.  And many of us make our charity contributions during the last quarter as we enter the giving season. It’s when appeals and generosity reminders appear everywhere we turn.  However, there are clear advantages in spreading out our gifts throughout the year and not waiting until the last minute. 

As noted in the piece I wrote for Forbes, “Consider These Factors Before Making Your Next Contribution Decision,” it’s important to take time to select causes and charities that we care about: “While it’s certainly possible to know this at the end of the year, it doesn’t hurt to give yourself more time to decide on what matters to you most.”  

And spreading our gifts also provides more opportunities to research charities to make sure we agree with their focus and verify their trustworthiness. Sadly, studies conducted by Money for Good show that only 38% of donors report researching at least one charity before donating. 

Who knows, by providing more time to check out charities, it’s possible one might find new organizations to support and ignite additional interests in  philanthropy. 

Video of the Week 

As part of our Building Trust Video Series, we are pleased to provide a video featuring Harold Wimmer, President and CEO, American Lung Association (a BBB Accredited Charity) which supports lung health through research, advocacy and health education. The organization reports that it funds research into the causes, prevention, and cures of lung diseases, including lung cancer, asthma, COPD and influenza. ALA also advocates at the national and local level to protect lung health, including fighting for healthy air, smokefree environments, tobacco regulation, smoking prevention, smoking cessation programs, lung health programs and medical research. 

Recent Reports 

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:

• Children’s Tumor Foundation
• Cure SMA
• Operation Underground Railroad 

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