WALKER, Mich. -- Giving to charitable causes is a great opportunity to support organizations you believe in. To ensure you're giving to an organization you can trust, the the Better Business Bureau provides resources to help donors in their research.
In a recent example of questionable practices, a Texas organization faces more than 319,000 civil violations filed by the Michigan attorney general. The clothing bin operator is accused of lying about how much money it collects that goes to the Michigan Humane Society, which has multiple locations in eastern Michigan.
"We at Humane Society [of West Michigan] we really feel for Michigan Humane [Society]" HSWM executive director Trudy Jeffers said. Her organization is located in Walker. "We're separate organizations, but of course we care about each other. We have the same goals and mission."
According to the state AG, Texas-based American Textile Recycling Service claims 100% of the money produced from its clothing donation bins goes to the Michigan Humane Society. However, after an investigation, the state said only about 6% actually made it to MHS.
"When the AG comes out with a statement like this, it brings light to organizations that might not be fully cooperating with the public's best interest," said Chris Palmer, foundation director for the Better Business Bureau. "When there are organizations that might not be transparent with their information, they might say one thing, but their data and the transparency of their documents might say something different. So, it's always advisable to take one further step and investigate and look at who are you truly donating to."
He said give.org is a useful resource. An arm of the BBB, it is part of the Wise Giving Alliance, which lists non-profits that meet 20 different standards.
"And so, not only do we help donors find charities that meet these standards, but we also walk alongside charities that are looking to improve their standards," Palmer explained.
"For our organization, we really try to make it really clear when we have what's considered a third party [raising money]," Jeffers said. Third party organizations are often helpful raising money, since the Humane Society is short staffed and takes care of 4,500 animals a year, she said. However, the best way to know where your money is going is to give directly, "The need is great when you have that many animals who are homeless and who are in need of care. We're there to do that only because of people who give"
"ATRS has been in ongoing discussions with the AG and has provided all documents requested to renew our Professional Solicitor license in the State of Michigan," American Textile Recycling Service wrote to FOX 17 in response to the claims by Attorney General Bill Schuette. "Our first priority is to work with Mr. Schuette's office, share our industry's best practice and clear his concerns."
