Giving is neither something one is obliged to do nor has to disclose. And an Alabama reader writes that she tithes not the customary 10 percent but in proportion to what she has received. Some, such as Joan Cutler of California, have their own personal tithing policies. When I receive unexpected money, I donate 10 percent of it to Catholic Relief Services. Mary McLaughlin of Mitchellville, Maryland says she has a custom of giving one tenth of the returns on her stocks to Catholic Charities.
Many household names are close to readers' wallets and hearts.
We also pick organizations that share our ideals, morals, and principles. Overall, readers say they look to give to missions, not to huge administrative budgets. Readers also explain why they have chosen, in one instance or another, to dry up their philanthropic wells. A Texas woman quit giving because she found the charity supports things she does not believe in, such as abortions. Another couple resented the fact that their money went toward big salaries and beautification projects, instead of fixing a leaky ceiling or paying the electric bill.