Appeals for donations are booming at Christmas. Every year in the weeks before Christmas, organizations call for donations by post, in the pedestrian zone or on social media channels. Emotional images and compassionate stories appeal to people's compassion and solidarity. But there is not always a serious purpose behind it. The consumer advice center and the Rhineland-Palatinate State Criminal Police Office give tips on how to distinguish serious appeals for donations from dubious collectors.
Call for donations? Obtain information about the organization
It is always advisable to research the organization in detail before making a donation. Reputable organizations publish an annual report every year. This explains how the donated money or membership fees are actually spent. It should be clearly stated how much money goes into administration and advertising and how much actually goes to a good cause.
Be careful with internet portals and fundraising via social networks
Not every professionally designed website is a guarantee of the seriousness of a donation organization. A look at the legal notice should provide information about where the organization is based and whether there is a contact person. If in doubt, you should request the statutes or the annual report and search other online sources for statements about the organization and its activities.
Beware of sponsoring memberships
Many dubious organizations are not satisfied with a one-off donation and push for membership. Under no circumstances should you sign a so-called supporting membership too quickly. Because then you are tied to an organization for a longer period of time - usually one to two years - and with a monthly contribution. Such a decision should be carefully considered and carefully informed about the (termination) conditions.
Look for the seal of the German Central Institute for Social Issues
The German Central Institute for Social Issues (DZI) awards a donation seal to organizations worthy of funding based on an annual audit. However, only aid organizations that have received at least 25,000 euros in donations in the past two financial years, report themselves to the DZI for an audit and also cover the costs for this are audited. Smaller organizations often cannot afford this.
If a club is missing from the DZI list, that does not necessarily mean that it is dubious. In this case, interested parties can contact the association directly and find out how the funds are used. If the organization is working correctly, it will answer questions and provide information. If an appeal for donations bears the DZI star wreath, it is guaranteed that the organization advertises clearly and objectively, operates economically and verifiably shows how the donors' money is used. Anyone who has the feeling that they have donated money to a dubious organization should report the organization to the DZI donor advisory service.
Don't allow yourself to be put under pressure
Criminals pose as charitable fundraisers on the phone, at the weekly or Christmas market or at the front door. They use emotionally charged stories to urge you to pay money. Under no circumstances should any data be revealed or a signature given hastily. It is advisable to end the conversation quickly and obtain information online or from official sources about the accuracy of the statements made.
Consumer advice centers and the police provide further information on safe donations on their websites under the following links:
Source:
Press portal
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