NZ Disaster - Be Smart About Your Giving

As much as we all feel for the earthquake victims in New Zealand, the public needs to get smarter about post disaster giving. Often there is a knee jerk reaction to such natural disasters. Out of sympathy and concern people give to the first appeal that comes along.

Take the time to investigate and be sure you know who is asking and that the request is legitimate. There are organizations there to take care of the immediate on the ground needs.  You can take some time to think through the best way to help.  Here are some questions to ask yourslef:

1. Do I want to support immediate relief or later rebuilding efforts?

2. Is the organization I'm giving to legitimate - a true charity?

3. Does the organization I'm giving to have a track record of operating in these kinds of situations?  In other words, was it created just for this event or has it been around for awhile?  What's it's experience?

4. Is the organization headed by people you know about and trust?

There are lots of resources to help. If US based look up the organization on GuideStar to review financials, IRS forms, and learn more about programs. Take a look at the organizations website and do your homework.Charity Navigator is another good resource. 

Bottom line, know who you're giving to and be assured that your good intentions are being rewarded with honest to goodness impact. In disasters there are always people out there with rip offs ready to take advantage of emotions of the moment.