Charities Blog

Giving Something Back

The Limited Choices of People Seeking Aid

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Hunger in the World of Poverty

Around the world, it cannot be denied that there are a lot of people who are experiencing poverty and issues regarding their manner of living. A lot would depend on where they are situated, the country and of course the manner of living that majority of the region is experiencing. Not all countries are blessed with a good economy to which people can find a way to survive with the available jobs to choose from. Some are just plain unlucky to be situated in them like Vietnam, Africa and so on.

The good thing about the world is that people from other countries do not hesitate to lend a helping hand to the best of their abilities. Help in any form cannot be measured and people in need do not really have much choice. Hence beggars really cannot be choosers in this case.

Help in the form of food, clothing and other materials essential for living is being sent to most parts of the world. Some would even render volunteer work and services just to reach them. In a sense, they can call themselves lucky that there are people who still care for what the world has to deal with today.

Originally posted on August 25, 2010 @ 1:43 pm

Wherever the Need

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There are people in need everywhere. Some of them are right in your own backyard. Some of them are on the opposite side of the world. No matter where it is, Wherever the Need (WTN) tries to assist.

Wherever the Need is an organization that chooses to implement projects that will have long term effects. Water for example is of prime importance to them. They work to provide clean drinking water for the people- which is critical for people to stay healthy, and if possible to the livestock and plants as well. They are very environmentally minded. They always try to ensure that their projects are earth friendly.

Wherever the need isn’t as big an organization as some but they are registered in the UK and the US.The fact that they aren’t as big an organization means that it is possible for relationships to grow between benefactors and the recipients. For those who like to make a difference and feel like they are extending their circle of family and friends, this is a great choice

One beauty of this organization is that you can approach them about a project that you woud like to start and they can help you to make it happen. It is your project but they help get it up and running. So if you know of a group that really needs your help, don’t hesitate to bring them to the attention of WTN. Be prepared to do your part of course. You will be involved every step of the way with your project; it is worth it!.

Originally posted on August 11, 2010 @ 12:39 pm

Quick Tips To Bear In Mind When Donating To Charity

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Some people are naturally generous. You know this type. Anyone who approaches them on the street for help, they’ll help. If they receive a letter in the mail asking for a donation, they’ll do so without any hesitation.

A friend comes to them for help, they’ll give without any questions.

There is nothing wrong in being generous, but you ought to know that giving to charity should also be done with caution. It wouldn’t do if you’re being scammed, would it? Here are some quick tips that will help you give to your heart’s content without sacrificing the spirit of giving.

Come up with a list of charities that you wish to give to. This is the safest course you can take. There are so many charitable organizations out there – some of them are not legitimate, we have to face it. As such, you ought to check out organizations that you can be sure of, and stick to them.

Make sure that you know all about the organizations that you are giving to. Do research. Check them up with the Better Business Bureau. Talk to your friends who also make it a habit to give to charity.

When doing your research, make sure that take a look at whether or not the organization is a good fit for you and the causes close to your heart. Do not immediately put your trust in an organization just because it looks good. Take a thorough look at the activities and methods of the organization before you commit to anything.

Originally posted on April 11, 2010 @ 12:48 pm

Tax Deductible Contributions

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Were you aware that not all contributions are “tax deductible”? Just so that you don’t get an unpleasant surprise after you donate larger sums of money, it pays to understand the mechanics of this.

For starters, know the difference between “Tax Exempt” and “Tax Deductable”

“Tax exempt” does not necessarily mean “tax deductible.” A tax exempt organization is one that does not have to pay income taxes. Contributions made to certain tax exempt organizations may be deductible on the donor’s federal income tax return. While the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) defines more than twenty different categories of tax exempt organizations, contributions to groups in only a few of these categories are tax deductible.”

According to the Better Business Bureau, there are more tips to keep in mind when you contribute to a worthy cause. Here are some of them:

1. Contributions are deductible for the year in which they are actually paid or delivered. Pledges are not deductible until the year in which they are paid.

2. The value of volunteer time or services to a charitable organization is not deductible. However, out-of-pocket expenses directly related to voluntary service are usually deductible.

3. Contributions for which the donor receives a gift or other kinds of benefits are deductible only to the extent that the donation exceeds the value of any benefit received by the donor.

4. Direct contributions to needy individuals are not deductible. Contributions must be made to qualified organizations in order to be tax deductible.

5. Contributions made directly to foreign organizations are not deductible, except in the case of some Canadian organizations as specified in an agreement with that country. Also, donations to charities located in Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, and other U.S. possessions are deductible. Such organizations must meet the requirements for exemption under the income tax laws of the United States.

6. The “fair market value” of goods donated to a thrift store is deductible as long as the store is operated by a charity. To determine fair market value, visit a thrift store and check the “going rate” for comparable items. One cannot take a deduction if the goods are sold on a consignment basis whereby the original owner gets a percentage of the final sales price.

7. Donated property may generally be deducted at the fair market value of the property at the time of the contribution. However, there are special rules for the donation of cars and other vehicles. Also, in certain situations, additional details concerning the property’s worth may need to be filed with the IRS in order to make a deduction on your federal income tax forms. Also, gifts of appreciated property are subject to special rules. See a financial advisor for additional details.

Originally posted on July 9, 2010 @ 6:37 pm

Texas Calls for Baby Supplies Donations

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When it comes to aids for people hit by disasters such as Hurricane Ike, you would think that food and clothing would be enough. But for the people down in Texas, it has gone as far as seeking aid for the little ones, babies who need proper needs to live alongside other victims of these freaks of nature.

Diapers, baby clothes and food would normally not be in the list of supplies that most organizations have as donations. Hence in this light, it seems that they are needs for infants who have unfortunately been caught with these rampant hurricanes hitting various regions.

For people who can spare some diapers or baby formula, perhaps you can lend a helping hand. This is something that they did not ask for and it is quite a pity why innocent children have to bear the problems at such an untimely age.

There is a known shortage of supplies and food for adults, but children are being overlooked in this crisis. Charities such as Red Cross and Catholic Charities are advising donors to donate money so that officials can purchase diapers that are the right size.

More children and babies are becoming lactose intolerant and they require soy based formulas. This is becoming a large problem for parents of children with food allergies who cannot eat milk products or products with nuts and various other food allergies. Families of these children are feeling the stress.

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Originally posted on September 17, 2008 @ 2:22 pm

Miley Cyrus Celebrates Birthday for Charity

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Miley Cyrus, that popular star of Disney’s Hannah Montana will be celebrating her 16th birthday with fans at Disneyland. She will be holding a special fireworks display and live music events to which proceeds shall be given to the Youth Service America charity.

With tickets priced at $250, Miley Cyrus is bound to raise a lot of money for a good cause. Cyrus has been constantly on the headlines as of late and while many of them are divided in between controversy and her plans, this is one gig that is sure to get the nod and approval of most of her fans that have follower her on Hannah Montana.

We have seen a lot of celebrities do good causes for charity, holding concerts and special shows but what perhaps makes Miley Cyrus’ event different is that she is giving rather than receiving on her 16th birthday. The average teenager would perhaps choose to ask more for herself but Cyrus typifies the type of wise teenagers who know what to do and why they should do it.

She told Entertainment Tonight: “I love roller coasters. So this is my ultimate birthday.

“It’s gonna be an awesome party with more than 7 things I like. It’s gonna be totally awesome. I hope it’s a great time.”

Tickets for the event, priced at $250, will go on sale on 30th August.

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Originally posted on August 22, 2008 @ 2:19 am

Modeling for Charity

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Anyone can do their part for charity. In fact, fashion shows which have the usual models showcasing the latest wardrobe design ideas from noted designers today is a good way to put everything in perspective.

Such was the intent of a glamorous fashion show that was held in London, featuring top catwalk models, the same agency that handles Kate Moss. For their efforts, they were able to raise more than £3,000 for charity.

Models1 successfully modeled for a cause using garments made by Hollywood Collections, a fashion store in Barnt Green and accessories from Solihull boutique Le Scarpe in the glitzy bash at Hogarths Hotel in Solihull. The funds raised will be given to Cancer Research UK and the Love Care Charity in Chennai as organized by hotel owner, Helena Hogarth.

“This £3,000 will go towards making this orphanage as comfortable as possible for the orphans and giving them a better chance in life. I’d like to thank all who took part and helped support these two amazing charities.”

At these trying times, such an amount is modest enough for a worthy cause. Especially now that the holiday season is fast approaching, it would be nice to see such efforts which is sure to grow in the next couple of weeks, regardless if hard times are here. Besides, charity is about giving what you can and not really about the amount you are able to give.

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Originally posted on October 27, 2008 @ 4:50 pm

Zo’s Million Dollar Golf Shootout Charity

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Miami Heat’s Alonzo Mourning is a familiar figure when it comes to organizing charity events and apparently he has another project coming up this year. But this time, his event is not going to take place on the hardcourt. Rather it will be on the greens, a second sport that has been fixed at most basketball stars today.

The 5th Annual Zo’s Million Dollar Shootout will be held at Trump National Golf Club in Winchester New York on August 18. This annual event held by Mourning has solicited quite a big following. Most of them join not primarily to show off their golfing skills and golf swings but also to give support for Mourning’s worthy cause. It is not all about playing to win since in these events, giving is winning already in its own.

“We know there’s a million dollar shooter out there waiting to show off his or her skills so we encourage you to leave your business suits behind for the day and join us on the greens,” said Alonzo Mourning, Founder of Alonzo Mourning Charities. “Your support helps positively impact the youth we serve who might not have a chance to advance without our assistance. With increased financial resources, we’re able to change the lives of so many deserving children through education and mentoring.”

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So if you are in the area, why not join. The cause is for helping out the people in need and it will really feel good doing it all for a worthy cause.

Originally posted on August 6, 2008 @ 7:40 pm

Corruption Money Given to Charity

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There will be always money coming from unknown sources. Usually, these originate from people who are up to no good like felons and convicted people, definitely welcome but not needed as far as campaign procedures are concerned.

Much of these have been traced to reach the U.S. presidential candidates, Barack Obama and John McCain. And while these transactions were traced, it is apparent that to avoid any untoward audit of campaign funds, such amounts are said to be headed for a worthy cause; charitable institutions.

There was no specific number specified although there was one felon who admitted wiring $7,000 and structuring financial transactions. At least you know that $7,000 is on its way to these charity groups, names of the organizations of which were not divulged.

Was it done intentionally or another publicity stunt to look good in front of the potential voting population of America? If perhaps there would be a probing team released to audit and oversee these funds, then perhaps the real intent and amount of funds disbursed will surely be seen.

This is not to question the integrity and character of the presidential candidates. But once news like this leaks, it is something that can work against people considering money is a very tedious word in the industry today.

But as far as the charities are concerned, as long as they can get support and help for their cause, all is welcome. If there is one group that needs help these days, that would be the charities.

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Originally posted on November 3, 2008 @ 12:57 pm

Lohan Boxes for Charity

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In the boxing world, you may be looking for a fighter named Michahel Lohan. Sad to say folks, familiar as the name would be, you will not find it. Michael Lohan is the estranged father of diva Lindsay Lohan and he shall be fighting for a charitable cause.

It all started in October 6 where Lohan made it public that he would box the highest bidder. The initial bid was set at $5,000. Lohan had also initially wanted to fight off some known names in the industry including Kevin Federline and Perez Hilton but to no avail. Eventually it all came down to a local businessman, Robert Venero who had thrown $20,000 in the pot to fight Lohan. The match is scheduled on November 24 at the Hilton Long Island. Stephen Baldwin has agreed to judge the match. Proceeds of the match will go to the Long Island charities which really sponsors annual slugfests for a cause.

Lohan has had a history of being used to fights. Being jailed before, he does seem like a dangerous opponent. But on the issue of why Venero really wants to fight Lohan is another. Is it really for charity or another cause?

Whatever the reason is, it is the money for charity that is important. These two are taking the fight seriously and from all indications, it will truly give the word “slugfest” something to watch.

“It’s going to be war,” he said. “Michael Lohan is not going down without a struggle and Bob Venero is not paying $20,000 to get humiliated. They both will be swinging for the fences.”

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Originally posted on October 15, 2008 @ 9:33 am