I believe that thought should be given when deciding to whom and how much one should give to charities.  Sure, sometimes you’ll receive a request and you’ll give $25 or $50.  But for more substantial gifts, here are some things to think about.

1. Areas: Do you have specific areas that are near and dear?
   1. 3^rd world issues (Women’s Refugee Commission for example)
   2. Buddhism
   3. Homeless (Aurora for example)
   4. Hunger (Tri-State Food Bank for example)
   5. Jewish causes
   6. Women
   7. Micro finance (FINCA and FONKOZE for example)
   8. Legal (EJI for example)
   9. General (Purdue for example)
2. Organizations: Is there personal value in giving to these organizations?
   1. Donation will have impact
   2. Administrative costs less than 12%
   3. Total income is 100 million or less
   4. Appropriate salaries
3. Research: How will I know?
   1. Examine the 990
   2. Read the annual report
   3. Determine where it ranks on charitable giving list
4. Contribution
   1. 1-249                         no receipt needed
   2. 250 or more get a tax receipt
   3. Consider making the contribution from your IRA as a qualified charitable deduction
5. Notes:
   1. Check out donor advised funds
   2. Give locally – Evansville