Some will always try to profit by the misery of others. We are lucky to have known a very reputable charity that is devoted to helping Haiti at all times, not just in disasters, called "Hands Together." I am sure that they will need help long after the initial digging out from under this disaster. May I recommend donating to HT? Check its website and its references:

Then there's Zynga...

For those looking to donate to the Haiti earthquake relief efforts, watch out for scammers. Here are 3 of the most safe places to give money:

The American Red Cross
Consumers who want to donate immediately can text "HAITI" to "90999" and $10 will be automatically given to the Red Cross relief efforts.

UNICEF

MERCYCORPS

I am please with the U.S. response,

As a non-profit geek for the last 21 years (wow - I can’t believe it has been that long), I am one of the biggest proponents of the industry (yes although unique in many ways - still an industry). Yet at the same time I have always been one of the biggest critics of the industry. As a non-profit, we should be held to higher standards and we are dealing with the publics trust. Non-profits must be good -- make those great stewards of the community’s resources.

I encourage everyone to scrutinize every dollar you donate (and then, of course, give lots!)

Ask questions!!!!
1. What is the mission of the organization?
2. How will my dollar be spent?
3. How much does the organization spend on A) Mission or Program related costs B) Fundraising Costs and C) Administrative Costs
4. Ask to see the organization’s Annual report.
6. Ask to see their Form 990 – the form that all non-profits are required to complete for the IRS. This form has the above mentioned figured clearly identified.

If the organization cannot answer these questions, or at the very least guide you to someone that can – don’t give them a dime!

If an organization is spending (at least) 75-80% on Program or Mission based expenses – it is using its resources wisely. An organization needs to spend 20-25% on the necessary evils of fundraising and admin expenses.

A good resource is www.guidestar.org. This site has a profile and the From 990’s of nearly 100% of the non-profits in the U.S. You need to register to use the site; however, it is free to do so.

I am refraining from giving personal opinions on particular organizations. If interested, get in touch with me and I will be happy to share my perspective.

Another consideration to think of is what you really want your dollar to do. There are over 1 million non-profits in the U.S. (7,000 in the Kansas City Metro alone!). Many have similar missions and may duplicate services. And, there are tons or organizations with word “cancer” “diabetes” “homeless” - you name it. What do they really do? They all may be doing good stuff but is it what you want your dollar to do. For example, take “Diabetes” (or Stroke, or Homeless, Children, Cancer – you name the condition!) In Kansas City there are several non-profit organizations with “diabetes” in their name. They may or may not, all have a different mission but have that word “diabetes” in it. Some focus on research, some education and prevention, while another may focus on disparity, and yet another on advocacy. You as the donor need to find out and then spend your dollar as you desire.

Make your charitable dollar count!
Bottom line – donor beware!

. I am please with the U.S. response,
TIS

Cold and heartless?? Why would you think that? Just because you prefer to condemn others, after they experienced a devastating disaster, to starvation, homelessness and disease because we have problems, too, why would you think that sounds cold and heartless?

We have more than most people in the world can dream of. The everyday things we take for granted, like electricity, warmth from the cold, running water, indoor plumbing, accessible vaccines. These are all things that the vast majority of Americans expect as their right, yet they are riches beyond the imagination of so many.

SB haven't you ever heard of the old saying charity starts at home?

Yes, and I think it's a horrible sentiment. Have you ever heard the following Proverbs??

Proverbs 14:31
He who oppresses the poor shows contempt for their Maker, but whoever is kind to the needy honors God.

Proverbs 19:17
He who is kind to the poor lends to the LORD, and he will reward him for what he has done.

Proverbs 21:13
If a man shuts his ears to the cry of the poor, he too will cry out and not be answered.

Proverbs 22:9
A generous man will himself be blessed, for he shares his food with the poor.

Proverbs 28:27
He who gives to the poor will lack nothing, but he who closes his eyes to them receives many curses.

Proverbs 31:8-9
Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.