Avoiding Charity Fraud

The article “The people who steal hope” by Bob Greene addresses the attempted fraud that happens whenever a major disaster occurs around the world. The article points out that “when a natural disaster hits, it reveals both the most noble side of human nature and the most venal.”

When an event like the earthquake in Haiti occurs we are all forced to think about what we should do as members of a more fortunate nation to help others. I know that personally there are times when I would like to help others, but I am unsure of how to do so. When potential scam artists set up fraudulent organizations they are discouraging people from giving money. If someone gives money to one of these scam operations they are not only encouraging a criminal, but they are also decreasing their chances of ever giving to charitable organizations again. It is a natural reaction to feel suspicious of charitable organizations, especially if you have been scammed in the past.

I don’t blame people for wondering what an organization is going to do with the money they are given, but it is still important to help out any way we can when disasters like the Haitian earthquake strike. As long as people use common sense and check into the organization they are thinking of supporting there should be no major problems. If the organization sounds suspicious it most likely is, and people should find a more reputable source for spreading their goodwill.