Jim Karpen Tips

December 2000

The Internet excels at facilitating the exchange of information and goods, and what better use for this exchange than giving to those in need? If you find in your heart a desire to give, if you have unused items you'd like to unload, or even if you'd like to give "free donations" by simply clicking on a link, then check out GiveSpot, an extraordinary clearinghouse for giving--and receiving--charity.

If your interest is in making donations, you'll find all the links and information you need here. You can learn about how to donate computers, food, money, organs, vehicles, and surplus items. The latter section, for example, includes links to organizations such as Goodwill. When I visited the Goodwill site, I was interested to see that there was information about Gateway Computer's program for donating older PCs. They give rebates of up to $50 on a new purchase to those who have recycled their old machines to worthy causes.

Other links include the Salvation Army and CharityAmerica.Com, which tells you how to donate items such as unused appliances, toys, and furniture. There is also a link to Gifts in Kind, which offers free pickup of unused company surplus that is then recycled to charitable causes.

If you're someone who's skeptical of charities, GiveSpot offers extensive information on evaluating charitable organizations. An in-depth article includes a link to the American Institute of Philanthropy. This organization rates charities so that you can know for sure that your contributions are indeed going to the needy. The sad fact is that some charities are known to spend most of the money they collect on their own salaries, with little of it actually going to charity. That's why it's good to investigate or to go with well known organizations.

If you're in need of charity, this site can help. It even has links to a variety of government programs, such as Social Security, welfare, and food stamps. There is also an extensive section of information for those who are seeking grants.

Some Internet sites make donate to charity each time you click a link or use their search engine. You can find a range of these sites under the Click & Give link. There's also a section that has links to sites that donate money to the school of your choice. You simply do your shopping there, and the site donates a percentage to the school.

You can use this site to find charities to donate to--and also to get information about tax deductions once you've donated. Other types of resources on the site include information about international aid and about how to volunteer your time.

© 2000 by Jim Karpen, Ph.D. (#245)