Making a Donation 4/19/2010
What Can I Donate?
Almost all charitable organizations will accept cash donations or donations of your time. Many also welcome material donations, whether the item is new or used. Items may include clothing, household items, toiletries, appliances, etc. Some charitable organizations operate in a limited space and may not be able to take in large items, like large appliances or cars. When choosing an organization to donate to, you will want to take into account their needs as well as their physical limits.
You may consider donating to specialized charitable organizations, like those dedicated to helping abused children, victims of domestic violence, or victims of natural disasters. In the example of donating to a children’s organization, donations of children’s bedding, children’s clothing, diapers, baby formula or food, and even toys are most helpful.
Where Can I Donate?
The United Way of Treasure Valley’s 2-1-1 Volunteer Center is a great resource to find donation opportunities. Through the “Gifts in Kind” program at the 2-1-1 Volunteer Center, you can find out what agencies who have registered with the 2-1-1 Volunteer Center are currently needing goods and what goods they need most.
Online: www.volunteersolutions.org/
How Charities Use Your Donation-
Ask the charity how the donation will be used. Some charities receive your donations and pass them directly on to an eligible client. Some charities may sell your donation and use the proceeds to benefit their various programs. For example, items sold in a Salvation Army Thrift Store help fund the Project Share utility assistance program for low income people.
Tax Deductions-
Regardless of the donation type, be it money, goods, or your time, ask for a donation receipt for use on your taxes as deductions. Be careful, the Internal Revenue Service may audit tax forms that claim too high a deduction. Always be prepared with donation receipts and proof of item value if needed. Speak with a Certified Public Accountant for more information about charitable donations and tax deductions.
Where Can I Complain If I’m Dissatisfied with a Donation Program?
If you feel a charitable organization is engaged in deceptive activities, you may report the organization to the Idaho Consumer Protection Agency Hotline 1-800-432-3545 or you can print the online complaint form from: http://www2.state.id.us/ag/consumer/general/complaintforminfo.htm
Where Can I Find Out More Information About Charitable Organizations?
Information about national charities is available from the Better Business Bureau’s Wise Giving Alliance at 1-800-575-4483 or on the Internet at www.give.org.
How to Find Donation Opportunities in the 2-1-1- Idaho CareLine Online Database or by calling the 2-1-1 Idaho CareLine by dialing 2-1-1 or 1-800-926-2588