It is well above the 31.9 percent returned in 1997. Some 99 Connecticut organizations, whose fund-raising campaigns are included in the annual report, used paid telephone solicitors in 1998. With so few dollars available for charitable purposes, the Unit and the Department of Consumer Protection want to ensure that those charities truly in need are given the opportunity to raise money for the very special causes they represent. Knowledge is power and with these figures, Connecticut citizens should have the information they need to target their donations to the charity of their choice.
Many charities have similar-sounding names.
Ask how and where the donation will be used. Don't accept vague answers. Ask whether the person calling is being paid and what percentage of the donation goes to the organization. Never give cash or agree to have someone pick up a contribution.