When tragedies like the the Boston Marathon bombing occur, concerned citizens want to respond immediately to support victims and their families. Unfortunately, some scammers are trying to profit from donors’ goodwill by setting up fake charities. Responding to a sudden tragedy requires donor diligence, and even a little strategy, to make sure that your donation goes through the appropriate channels. The Better Business Bureau’s Wise Giving Alliance has posted 10 cautions related to online giving after the Boston Marathon tragedy.
We recommend two charities that meet CAAP’s due-diligence standards: the Salvation Army and the Red Cross. Additionally Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick and Boston Mayor Thomas Menino have set up a new centralized fund to help families affected by the tragedy. Supported by the Boston Foundation and called The One Fund Boston*, contributions can be made through onefundboston.org.
Donors that establish a donor-advised fund at the Center for Arab American Philanthropy are provided with the expertise and due diligence necessary to effectively support nonprofits that respond to emergencies such as the Boston Marathon bombing.
*The One Fund Boston, Inc. has applied for 501c3 status. If approved by the IRS, individual contributions to The One Fund will be retroactively tax-exempt as of the organization’s formation date of 4/16/2013.
Photo courtesy Reuters