5 tips to follow when donating to a charity
You may already have a charity in mind to support if you won the Million & Change prize. For those still deciding, here are some helpful tips for choosing the right charity to donate to.
The excitement around the Million & Change competition is contagious, with many hoping to not only change their own lives but also make a meaningful impact on their community.
While it’s likely that most entrants have a cause they’d support if they won, what about those who aren’t sure where to start?
Don’t worry – we’ve got some helpful tips to guide you in choosing the perfect charity to donate to, whether or not you win the Million & Change competition.
1. Research, research, research
Before donating, it’s important to do your research on the charity you want to support. Choose a cause that resonates with you – whether it’s sports, cancer research, or any other area – and investigate the organisation thoroughly.
Make sure they are legally registered and trustworthy, as scammers often pose as charities to exploit people’s generosity.
You can check if the organisation is registered with South Africa’s Department of Social Development or the South African Revenue Service for tax-exempt status. This will help ensure that your donation goes to a genuine cause.
2. Where will your money go?
It’s completely understandable to want to know how your donation will be used. While it might feel uncomfortable to ask, transparency is key. How will the organisation use the money? Will it be used directly to help the cause or toward administrative expenses?
Reputable charities are open and clear about how they manage donations, so don’t hesitate to ask.
3. How to avoid scams
To avoid falling victim to fraud, start by verifying the organisation's legitimacy as mentioned in tip one. However, also double-check their account details, as scammers sometimes hack into charity accounts.
To be safe, contact the organisation directly to confirm their banking information before transferring any funds.
4. Become a volunteer
While donating money is generous, volunteering your time can often be an even more rewarding way to give back. Consider offering your skills and energy to a cause that matters to you – it’s a powerful way to make a real impact.
5. Keep in touch or follow up
It’s always encouraging to know how your donation is making a difference. Follow up with the organisation to see how your contribution, whether financial or through volunteering, has helped. This can inspire you and others to continue supporting the cause.
Ready to make a difference in your life and the lives of others? Enter the Million & Change competition today!
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