BBB Tips: Supporting Civil Rights Charities

Many donors are motivated to give in response to the protest movement addressing racial justice issues. The Better Business Bureau has compiled a few tips for those looking to donate to civil rights charities. First, find out  if they have a clear plan for helping. Be careful about organizations that provide detailed descriptions of problems or set high financial goals “we want to raise $10 million” but provide vague or sparse explanations about how they will address the issues. Also, look for details when appeals are highly emotional. Almost all charity appeals have an emotional component that inspires donors to give. Use caution, however, if you find the heart-wrenching approach is used to an excessive extent and the content has a lack of details about the organization plans to address its mission. Before reacting, look for additional information about how the charity will carry out is programs and services. And always do your research about how the charity has used funds in the past.