It’s something that many people in Hawaii are always willing to do – donate to a good cause.
"We get solicited all the time, for a number of different charities, foundations, and people in Hawaii love to give. It’s in their nature," says Timothy Caminos of the Hawaii Better Business Bureau.
But, sometimes we are so willing to give that we forget to find out how much of the money we’re donating is actually going to the actual charity or program.
"What people don’t realize is that it’s not always the charity or foundation asking directly. A lot times is that they hire professional fundraisers," Caminos says.
Caminos says sometimes charities use professional fundraising companies because they are a small organization.
"They don’t need to use their own resources because they usually have very limited resources with what they do have they need to focus on other things like operational things," he says.
The Hawaii BBB says professional fundraisers will keep on average between 85 and 87 percent of what they collected.
Caminos suggests consumers ask questions.
"A fundraiser does not need to come out and say he is a professional solicitor. However if you ask them who they work for, they need to tell you they are required to let the consumer know or donor know."
He also suggests consumers research the charity online.
"You should never feel rushed if you see someone on the street. You can look at the signs they’re holding, ask them what it’s for, go do a little homework first," Caminos says.
If you don’t want to go through a professional fundraiser, try to contact the charity directly for more information on other ways to donate.
See the original article at: KHON2 Local News
