As the number of COVID-19 cases continue to grow across the United States, BBB Wise Giving Alliance reached out to a number of executives at BBB Accredited Charities (i.e., charities that meet all 20 BBB Charity Standards) and asked them what they wish donors better understood about charities during this pandemic. We heard a variety of important perspectives that are highlighted here as well as in the video shared below. One of the most significant concerns raised is that charities will face both short and long term consequences, particularly those organizations addressing basic needs such as food banks. Many of them are anticipating that next year (2021) will place greater demands on their services than they are experiencing now. That prediction is very disconcerting as we have all seen news photos of endless lines of cars waiting to receive food distributions at these facilities. 

This increasing demand for help is also a reminder of the vital role charitable organizations play in addressing urgent needs, not only here in the U.S. but across the globe. It’s important to remember to also support charities that work to assist needy communities in other nations. The pandemic is a world-wide crisis not just a domestic one.

Another valuable lesson charities have expressed is the recognition in maintaining sufficient reserves so that they can bridge difficult times when fundraising revenues fall short or when demands placed on their services grow to unexpected levels. In the past, some charities, especially smaller organizations, had difficulties in developing reserves that would cover at least three months of expenses. This pandemic has demonstrated that even that amount may not be sufficient for some organizations to maintain their operations during a health crisis such as this.

Finally, donors are encouraged to also support organizations they care about that may not be directly engaged in addressing COVID-19 related needs. As these groups need continuing help as well, you don’t need to wait for their appeal before you send them your next contribution.

Video of the Week

BBB Wise Giving Alliance is proud of our network of trusted BBB Accredited Charities, which are rising to the challenge of dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic. This week, Art Taylor speaks to a number of charity executives about what they think donors should know about the impact of COVID-19 on charities.

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:

• Kidney Cancer Association
• Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research
• Ocean Conservancy

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.

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